Deepest Underwater Model Photoshoot: New World Record

Canadian photographer Steve Haining has achieved a Guinness World Record for the deepest underwater model photoshoot. The groundbreaking session took place on the wreck of the Hydro Atlantic ship near Boca Raton, Florida. At a depth of 163.4 feet (49.8 meters), it surpassed the previous record of 131 feet, set in 2023.

A Year of Preparation

The record-breaking team included model Ciara Antoski and safety divers Wayne Fryman, Ray Marciano, and others. Extensive preparation spanned over a year, focusing on deep-sea diving techniques, communication using hand signals, and safety measures for extreme underwater conditions.

To exceed the no-decompression diving limit, the team used advanced equipment. Specialized tanks with a mix of oxygen, helium, and nitrogen minimized the risks of nitrogen narcosis—a condition caused by high nitrogen levels at great depths. Staged decompression stops ensured a safe ascent.

The Photoshoot

The shoot lasted 15 minutes, while the entire dive took 52 minutes, including decompression time. Antoski, dressed in a white mesh dress and black boots, posed on the shipwreck’s deck. Fryman provided oxygen to Antoski during the session as her air tanks were temporarily removed.

Haining and his team faced challenges, including limited visibility, underwater currents, and the need to avoid disturbing marine life. The preparation and execution required precise coordination.

The Road to Success

This achievement marked Haining and Antoski’s third Guinness World Record. Their first record, in 2021, was a personal project at a shallow depth of 21 feet in Tobermory, Ontario. The second, in the same location, set the bar at 100 feet. However, it was soon surpassed, prompting the team to aim deeper.

Antoski, who underwent rigorous training to become a certified technical diver, described the experience as transformative. She trained with Isla Divers in Florida to handle complex scenarios and emergency protocols.

A Historic Milestone

Speaking about the achievement, Haining emphasized the ambition behind the project: “We didn’t just aim to beat the record. We wanted to push the boundaries of underwater photography.”

Antoski reflected on her passion for diving, saying, “The underwater world is peaceful. It offers a unique perspective where everything becomes quiet except for your breathing.”

What’s Next?

While Haining plans to focus on film projects and commercial photography, he hinted at the possibility of reclaiming the record if it is broken. Antoski, now based in Gatineau, Quebec, plans to take a break from major expeditions, though her love for deep diving remains strong.

This remarkable accomplishment highlights the blend of technical skill, creativity, and teamwork required to set such a record. For those passionate about diving and photography, it stands as a testament to what is possible through dedication and innovation

More…

• https://www.digitalcameraworld.com/photography/underwater-photography/photographer-steven-haining-breaks-world-record-for-the-deepest-underwater-photo-shoot
• https://indianexpress.com/article/trending/trending-globally/canadian-photographer-breaks-guinness-world-record-for-deepest-underwater-model-photo-shoot-watch-9794884