DR. SHIREEN RAHIMI
A few years ago, while doing field research across the Caribbean for my PhD in marine science, I was also taking photos on the side—just a hobby at first. But along the way, I realized my images and videos were reaching people in a way my research wasn’t. That was a turning point. I knew if I wanted to make a bigger impact on conservation, I needed to harness the most powerful tool I’d found for driving social change: visual storytelling.
So after graduating in 2020, I launched Lightpalace Productions, an underwater video production company based in Miami Beach, Florida. Since then, I’ve traveled the world documenting our planet’s rapidly changing waters—from the Caribbean to the Coral Triangle. With my background in directing, producing, underwater cinematography, and science communication, I craft emotional, character-driven stories designed to inspire action for our planet.
What’s up! I’m Shireen, an underwater storyteller, marine scientist & on-camera presenter
Film director, producer & underwater camerawoman
I love making films—especially documentaries about human relationships to the ocean.
With my team at Lightpalace Productions, I’ve produced and directed films for organizations like The Nature Conservancy, Oceana, the Jane Goodall Institute, UN conferences, PBS, and film festivals around the world. Our style has been described as ethereal and lyrical, yet rooted in bold, realistic hope for the future of our planet.
As a professional camerawoman, I complete grant-funded assignments from organizations like National Geographic Society, Ocean Culture Life, and Oolite Arts. I’m also hired by production companies to direct & film underwater, aerial, and VR stories in locations all over the world.
I own and operate a RED Helium Weapon 8K and Canon R5 in Nauticam Housings, as well as a DJI Mavic 3 Pro drone.
Watch my reel !
(or check out my full portfolio)
On-camera presenter, public speaker & influencer
I’ve appeared on-camera for National Geographic Sharkfest, Immotion VR’s Dolphin Reef immersive experience, ABC Localish x NatGeo WILD, and branded documentaries for Nautica and Oceana.
As a public speaker, I’ve delivered keynotes at SailGP, Coral Restoration Foundation, and UN COP28 and was a WildPitch 2024 finalist at Wildscreen Festival.
I work as a photo expert for National Geographic’s Lindblad Expeditions, traveling from the tropics to the poles, and as a photo instructor for National Geographic Photo Camp, empowering young photographers worldwide.
My favorite anti-aging strategy? TikTok.
I create short-form content for environmental organizations and brands, using social platforms to drive action around conservation. One recent viral reel led to increased volunteer recruitment for the Coral Restoration Foundation, and another helped shut down a controversial plan to build luxury developments on critical wildlife habitat in Florida State Parks.
HIT ME UP
(I’d love to hear from you)