Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Aita.
Hi Anna, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a fine art photographer based in Jacksonville, Florida, specialized in underwater photography, maternity, boudoir.
I was born and raised in Milan, Italy and I moved to Florida in 2021, fascinated by the beautiful nature and endless summer.
For as long as I can remember, my dad did photography as a hobby. When I was 13 he showed me how to use Photoshop and be creative with digital softwares. After my degree in Human Sciences for Communication at the University of Milan, I decided to work as a graphic designer.
In 2011 I started pole dancing and fell in love with it. I felt I was part of a community of strong women that were able to do amazing things. I started training very hard and also started practicing similar disciplines (acrobatics, aerial arts, calisthenics).
I felt strong and capable of doing anything and I thought that every woman should feel the same, so I quit my job (that was mainly behind a desk), I started teaching and in 2013 I opened the biggest Pole Dance and Circus Arts school of the north of Italy.
Seeing every day all the amazing things that my students, the other teachers and I were able to achieve inspired me to learn photography to show people these amazing disciplines and tell the stories of regular women that can transform into superheroes.
When I moved to Florida I found myself mesmerized by the beauty of the nature and I started to do more photoshoots outside the studio. I got my freediving certification and underwater photography became my new addiction.
The best part of my job is being able to highlight the beauty of every woman and see their reaction when they realize how sexy/incredible/rad/powerful/graceful they are.
I like to be their guide throughout the creation of works of art that will remind them forever their uniqueness.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The main challenge was moving to a completely different country without a plan, as a leap of faith. It was definitely challenging reinvent myself and find a new path but , in the end, absolutely rewarding!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I love different types of photography (boudoir, maternity, fine art portraits etc.) but my absolutely favorite one is underwater photography. My work is centered on celebrating women—transforming them into the “muses” of their own works of art.
I’m best known for creating images that are ethereal, dreamy, and feminine. Whether I’m shooting in my private pool studio or in the crystal-clear Florida springs, I focus on capturing a sense of peace and magic. My background as a circus and pole dance instructor for over 12 years heavily influences my work; I spent a decade seeing “regular” women transform into superheroes through movement, and I use my camera to tell that same story of empowerment and grace.
What I am most proud of?
Winning 2nd Place in the 2024 Ocean Art Awards (and 3rd place in the World Shootout) for my photo “The Lily Pad Garden” was an incredible professional milestone. It was captured in a Mexican cenote and represented exactly what I love: the intersection of nature and fine art.
However, on a personal level, I am most proud of the experience I provide for my clients. Many women come to me feeling nervous or “un-photogenic,” especially when it involves holding their breath underwater. I’m proud of the fact that I’ve created a safe space—literally, with a certified safety diver present—where women can let go of their fears. Seeing their reaction when they see their final “masterpiece” and realize how powerful and beautiful they truly are—that is what keeps me addicted to this craft.
What sets me apart?
Because of my years as a circus instructor and my freediving certification, I don’t just “take photos.” I am an underwater modeling coach. I teach my clients breathing techniques, buoyancy control, and how to look effortless while holding their breath. I can take someone who is hesitant about the water and help them look like a professional underwater model.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Follow the Journey: You can find me on Instagram at @annaaitaphoto . I share a lot of behind-the-scenes content there—showing the reality of what it takes to get that “perfect” shot, which is often much messier and more technical than the final image suggests!
Spread the Word: Most of my clients find me through word-of-mouth. If you know a woman who is celebrating a milestone—a pregnancy, a birthday, or a new chapter in life—tagging her in my work is a huge help.
Check out my website to see my work: www.annaaitaphotography.com
Book a session with me or get in touch at info@annaaitaphotography.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://annaaitaphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annaaitaphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annaaitaphoto/
