My name is Anna Tomppo. I’m a certified PADI Mermaid instructor and EFR emergency first response instructor. In addition, I’m a published photographer and oral and maxillofacial surgeon. I’m also a freediver and scuba diver.

My underwater photography adventures started in 2013. In 2016 I developed a passion for fantasy portrait photography. Soon enough I wanted to combine these two genres and nowadays I mostly photograph mermaids and other folks who are not afraid to get wet.

Thinking back, my journey below the surface was a bit rough shadowed by bad experiences from mandatory school swimming lessons. Even as an adult, I did not find water an enjoyable element – especially if there was a chance to get water up my nose. Mermaid diving especially has taught me how to be confident and smooth underwater. For the past 10 years, diving in all its forms has been my favourite way to exercise and relax. 

In my job as an OMF surgeon, I used to work at a trauma center for several years, so naturally, safety considerations and helping people are close to my heart. Mer-divers’ mission is to bring a dash of fantasy into everyday life and promote safe mermaiding culture and practices.

See you underwater!