Everyone copes and heals differently, and the Underwater Transformation Project does not claim to offer an instant cure for illness or trauma. Healing and transformation are complex, deeply personal journeys that unfold over time. This project provides a meaningful and accessible space for that journey to begin or continue.
Founded by underwater photographer Erena Shimoda, the Underwater Transformation Project offers underwater portrait sessions for individuals who have experienced cancer, trauma, PTSD, disabilities, or other life-altering events.
Erena’s inspiration for the project comes from her own healing process following a traumatic car accident that took her father’s life and left her with severe injuries.
By combining the therapeutic effects of water immersion with the expressive power of portrait photography, the project helps participants reconnect with their bodies, rebuild self-esteem, and rediscover a sense of beauty, strength, and wholeness.
Her personal narrative is also featured in the short documentary, “Take Me to The Ocean”, a five-minute film selected by several international film festivals. It explores her bond with the ocean, her healing journey, and her enduring connection to her father.
Through scuba diving and underwater photography, Erena found a path to emotional and physical recovery. Recognizing the healing potential of water-based portraiture, she has committed herself to offering this experience to others navigating their own recovery.
Water is a common theme in their travels, most often under it (scuba diving), sometimes on it (snorkeling with whale sharks and humpback whales, kayaking, river rafting), and sometimes beside it (bicycling along rivers, chasing great light, amazing waterfalls, icebergs and glaciers in Iceland, Antarctica, and Svalbard).
Her presentation included a brief bio, a breathing exercise, scuba diving stories about Mexico (2020), Tahiti: Moorea and Rangiroa (2024), and San Diego (2025), the Underwater Transformation Project, and a screening of her documentary.
Here is the link with English subtitles on Erena’s TEDxTalk.
Underwater Healer
