In response to the urgent need to spotlight the plight of Louisiana’s shrimping communities, the Louisiana Shrimp Museum launched its first major initiative: the production of a 15-minute documentary film. Rather than wait for the physical space to be completed, the Museum chose to begin its mission through story—capturing, preserving, and sharing the lived experiences of shrimpers in a format that could reach audiences far and wide. Completed in April 2025, the film serves as a compelling introduction to the Museum’s broader vision and an immediate call to action for viewers to engage with and support this essential piece of Gulf Coast heritage.
Produced in partnership with Presson Productions, Broken Arm Studio, Apex Post Production, and Loyola NOLA Digital Filmmaking, the documentary weaves together sweeping visuals, archival footage, and first-person interviews to present a nuanced portrait of Louisiana shrimpers today. Viewers meet families who have worked the waters for generations, hear firsthand accounts of environmental and economic challenges, and witness the beauty and hardship of a life shaped by the tides. The result is a film that not only educates but also inspires—illuminating what is at stake if this way of life continues to erode.
The documentary was created as both an act of preservation and an invitation. By launching its public-facing work through film, the Museum ensured that the story of Louisiana’s shrimpers could be told urgently and widely—well before bricks and mortar were in place. The film serves as a conversation starter, a rallying cry, and a tool for advocacy. Screenings have already sparked dialogue among policymakers, educators, and community members, helping to build momentum and support for the Museum’s eventual physical home.
The total cost to produce the documentary was nearly $80,000, funded entirely through private donations. To help recoup this investment and direct future funding into the development of the Museum, title sponsorship opportunities are now available. Sponsors will receive prominent placement within the film’s credits and on associated outreach materials. As the documentary continues to be submitted to film festivals and public screenings, sponsor recognition will be visible to diverse regional and national audiences—helping to elevate the Museum’s profile and mission.