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In an effort to raise awareness about conservation and the environment, marine life photographer Shawn Heinrichs collaborated with fashion photographer Kristian Schmidt on this completely awe-inspiring underwater project. The images feature enchanting combinations where human models swim in sync with whale sharks, the world's largest fish.
Heinrichs and Schmidt first met on a whale shark trip and instantly knew that they would be a great team. So they brought together a group including models, a stylist, a dive specialist, and of course, the whale fish. Heinrichs describes their goal: "To highlight the magnificence of these creatures and bring beauty to a global audience. Our challenge, to turn models into mermaids and create mesmerizing imagery that captured the unique connection between humans and the largest fish in the ocean."
Involved in the project were Italian model Roberta Mancino, underwater model Hannah Fraser, stylist Fazli Krasniqi, and physiologist and artist Taro Smith. As the models and animals worked flawlessly together, the two photographers captured rare moments of natural visual harmony. A strong passion for the preservation and protection of our world is evident in this project, and, through their hard work and creative minds, Heinrichs and Schmidt have brought to us a collection of innovative moments that serve as a constant reminder of the fragility of nature.
