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Tahiti by Windstar

the client
Windstar Cruises
the problem
Windstar Cruises commissioned Roger Paperno to create a series of still and video assets that would capture the essence of their luxury small-ship experience in French Polynesia. The goal was to highlight the unique access Windstar provides to secluded lagoons, cultural encounters, and intimate onboard experiences—not easily achievable on larger vessels.
the  solution
To evoke a deep sense of place and scale, Roger employed a hybrid shooting strategy—utilizing cinematic camera systems, compact formats, and drone technology—tailored to the unique conditions of the islands and the ship itself.

1. Multiple Camera Formats

  • RED Digital Cinema Camera – For high-resolution motion sequences, including sunrise shots of the ship entering lagoons and dramatic slow-motion footage of water-based excursions.
  • Canon EOS R5 – Lightweight, high-res stills and video (4K/120fps) for flexibility while island-hopping and capturing candid cultural moments.
  • Sony A7S III – Exceptional low-light performance, used during evening deck dinners, Polynesian dance shows, and twilight scenes.

2. Drone Footage

  • DJI Inspire 2 + X7 Camera – Used for cinematic aerials of the ship sailing through turquoise waters and anchoring near remote motus.
  • DJI Mavic 3 Pro – Compact backup drone for spontaneous island flyovers and tight-quarters maneuvering.

Challenges:

  • Coordinating drone takeoffs and landings on a moving ship required precise timing and close collaboration with the ship’s bridge crew.
  • Balancing battery use in high-humidity, remote environments with limited recharging availability.

the  project

Results & Impact

  • Used in: 2023–24 Windstar print brochures, digital campaigns, social reels, and cruise expos
  • Increased Engagement:
    • Instagram engagement rate rose 27% over average posts when aerial and lifestyle content was introduced
    • Pre-roll video campaign CTR increased 38% with drone footage headlining the opening 3 seconds
  • Customer Feedback: Guests cited “the dreamy photography” as a primary reason they booked Windstar Tahiti

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