A marine biologist who swims with huge great white sharks says the belief they are bloodthirsty and aggressive is nothing more than a myth.
Kayleigh Nicole Grant is a professional shark diver and says they are actually shy and wary of humans.
The 34-year-old, who has been based in Hawaii for 10 years, said the magnificent creatures are usually harmless and the key to staying safe is reading their body language.
Incredible underwater photos show how close Kayleigh gets to sharks. In one shot she is close up to great white and tiger sharks as they dance around her in the water.
The diver hopes to share her stunning photos to change people's perceptions of sharks, as she says attacks on humans are very rare.
Kayleigh told the Sun : "There is nothing quite like sharing space and coexisting with an apex predator that could cause you harm but chooses not to."
But she adds that we must remember they "aren't puppy dogs".
Kayleigh says she aims to show their beauty and feels constantly humbled by the sea creatures - but wouldn't put herself near risky behaviour.
"Even with the experience I have if I see their behaviour become agitated and more assertive, I will leave the water," she explained.
Kayleigh hopes more people will consider swimming with sharks in the future, and she's made it her life's mission to protect them ever since she first started swimming with them nine years ago.
She described it as "thrilling" and "captivating" to be in the presence of sharks, and says she's never once felt like she's almost been attacked or had a "close call".
Sharing tips for how to dive safely with the animals, she said eye contact is important as well as body language and behaviour in the water.
Try not to splash or draw attention to yourself - staying calm is really important.
Kayleigh adds if you have something to put between yourself and the animal, that's useful.
The diver continued, explaining that a person is more likely to be struck by lightening than attacked by a shark.
Considering how many people are in the sea every day, shark attacks are so rare.
"It’s important to note that sharks have been here millions of years before us and that when entering their home we take a risk," she added.
Just as you would be taking a risk by entering the den of a bear, it's important humans remember this.
But this shouldn't scare or put people off, Kayleigh continued.
Around 100 million sharks are killed each year because of the shark fin trade, which Kayleigh is fighting against.
Shark fin soup is often eat as a symbol of status in China, Taiwan and Southeast Asia.
And Kayleigh pointed out that while around six to eight humans are killed each year by sharks, humans kill 100 million sharks a year.
She believes people have a responsibility to protect sharks and their reputation.
