🚢 Cruise Content That Converts: Behind the Scenes of My Visual Strategy at Sea

Written By Keli Schimelpfenig

What I packed, how I shot it, and why brands should think like directors—not just influencers.

When I boarded the MSC Seashore for a short trial sail, I wasn’t just there to lounge—I was there to test and prove how even a 4-day cruise can yield a quarter’s worth of high-quality travel content with the right strategy.

From port arrivals to golden hour deck shots, my goal was simple: capture scroll-stopping imagery and video that cruise lines, tourism boards, and travel advisors can actually use to build trust, drive bookings, and stand out.

Here’s what went into it—because the secret isn’t just in the camera. It’s in the creative direction behind the lens.

🎯 Step 1: Shot List with Purpose

Before I even stepped on board, I mapped out a purpose-driven shot list based on:

  • Vertical Reels for Instagram/TikTok (think: palm trees + pool decks + movement)

  • Wide hero images for cruise line blogs, email headers, and site banners

  • Evergreen port content that travel advisors can personalize and reuse

  • BTS content of myself working (because brands love to see the process)

➡️ Pro Tip: I blocked out early mornings for quiet ship shots and golden hour for high-conversion visuals.

📸 Step 2: What’s in My Cruise Creator Kit

What’s in my bag? My must-haves when traveling light.

Here’s a look at my gear laid out on the cabin bed—because yes, this part always gets questions:

  • Nikon Z6ii + Tamron 24–70mm 2.8 lens for versatile lifestyle work

  • iPhonePro Max 14 for smooth vertical video (used for photo not shown)

  • Waterproof phone case, fins, mask, and snorkel

  • MacBook Pro (for immediate editing, labeling, and sorting)

  • SanDisk 4TB Portable Hard Drive

  • Magnetic phone tripod (small but mighty)

  • Packing cubes + tech bag to keep everything tidy and cruise-compliant

  • TOBIQ 30L Backpack

I travel light—but everything in my kit serves a clear creative purpose.

🎬 Step 3: Thinking Like a Director

Good visuals sell the destination. Great visuals tell its story.

I’m not just a photographer—I’m a trained theatre director. That means I’m thinking about light, pacing, emotional arc, and movement—not just what’s in the frame, but why it matters to your audience.

On Ocean Cay, I staged wide scenic shots, followed by tighter lifestyle details (footprints in the sand, coral textures, etc.), then finished with silhouettes at sunset. It told a full emotional journey in one port.

🗂️ This storytelling arc helps cruise brands market to multiple demographics at once—families, solo travelers, couples—all with the same content set.

📦 A Tiny Sample of What Came Out of 4 Days

Why This Matters to Cruise Brands & Travel Pros

The days of random vacation shots are over.

If you’re a brand manager at MSC, Carnival, or NCL, or a travel advisor building your online presence, you need:

âś… Consistent, high-quality visual assets
âś… A partner who understands sales funnels and storytelling
âś… Efficient content creation from someone already on location

I’m not just along for the ride—I’m creating visual strategy that sells the destination.

Want Content Like This For Your Brand?

I’m now booking on-location collaborations during upcoming cruises and content trips. Check my current travel schedule, or reach out for a custom proposal.

🛳️ Next up: Ocean Cay + Nassau in September with my Shiny Penny Studios Team
🎉 Group cruise content opportunities in January (NCL + Carnival)
🎡 Orlando diversity-focused family branding trip in November 2026

📩 Ready to collaborate? Let’s capture something unforgettable—and strategic.

Keli Schimelpfenig
Next

If they could see me now…