In this exclusive interview, we dive deep into the creative process behind Arjun Mark’s latest visual masterpiece—a breathtaking underwater fashion film he calls Mesmerizing Jellyfish Dancing in the Moonlight.
Renowned for his bold, innovative approach to storytelling through fashion photography, Arjun Mark is known to push the boundaries time and again. This time even further by immersing both models and fabrics in an aquatic environment, transforming them into ethereal marine creatures. With fluidity, grace, and an otherworldly atmosphere, this editorial fashion film captures the surreal beauty of underwater life. Arjun shares the inspiration, technical nuances, and creative vision that made this project truly magical, in this brief conversation.
Q) What inspired you to shoot a video underwater, and how did you conceptualise the entire process?
Arjun Mark (AM): Water and ocean life have always fascinated me and I have always wanted to shoot models underwater making them like marine creatures. Harshad Gadhvi, the stylist/ designer had conceptualised and designed the outfits making the fabric come to life underwater and making the models look like two Jellyfish dancing in the mesmerising moonlight.
Q) What were some of the unique challenges you faced while filming in an underwater environment, both technically and creatively?
AM: We built a large tank with reinforced toughened glass, capable of holding 4,000 litres of water. While that was a challenge in itself, the real test came in directing the models underwater, guiding them to move gracefully within the aquatic environment.
Q) How did the underwater setting enhance the visual storytelling or mood you were aiming to convey?
AM: The human eye is accustomed to seeing everything in real-time speed, but underwater movements appear as if in slow motion. This effect captivates the viewer, creating a dreamy, otherworldly feel. The models’ slow, graceful movements, along with the flowing fabrics, perfectly mirrored the fluid motion of ocean creatures in a surreal way.
Q) What kind of equipment and techniques did you use to ensure clarity and fluidity in the video?
AM: I shot this on a Canon EOS C70, which provided the versatility needed to capture the fluid movements seamlessly.
Q) How did you direct or communicate with the subjects during the shoot, given the challenges of working underwater? What was the memo given to the models?
AM: The real challenge was that the models couldn’t hear or see me underwater. Without goggles, everything in front of them appeared as a blur. I had to give directions when they surfaced for air, and they would execute those instructions once they dived back down.
Q) Were there any unexpected moments or discoveries that changed the direction or outcome of the video?
AM: Every aspect of the shoot was meticulously planned, and we adhered to our timeline without a hitch. I was impressed by the seamless execution of our vision. However, the final results surpassed my expectations, showcasing a beauty and fluidity that I hadn’t initially envisioned. The enchanting interplay of light, water, and movement brought the concept to life in ways I never anticipated, transforming the shoot into a breathtaking experience.
Q) How do you think the underwater setting impacted the final result in comparison to a traditional shoot?
AM: The underwater setting profoundly enhances the aesthetics of the final visual, creating a surreal and ethereal quality that is difficult to achieve in traditional shoots. The way light refracts and disperses in water produces a mesmerising interplay of highlights. This unique environment allows fabrics to float and swirl gracefully, creating dynamic textures that enhance the overall composition.
Q) Looking back, is there anything you would do differently if you were to attempt another underwater project?
AM: Hmmm… I honestly don’t think I would change a thing! Every detail feels just right, and I’m thrilled with how everything came together. The results perfectly captured my vision, and I appreciate the hard work that went into making this shoot a success!
Q) What do you hope the audience takes away from this video, both in terms of its visual impact and underlying intention?
AM: The audience will likely be captivated by the film’s pure aesthetics and its surreal portrayal of the underwater world.
Q) What advice would you give to other photographers or videographers interested in exploring underwater shoots?
AM: Safety is the top priority here; everything else comes second.