Conversations with Jessica Butterworth

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Butterworth.

Hi Jessica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started Behind the Shutter LLC as a one-woman photography business built from a simple love of capturing people in their real, in-between moments — the laughs, the glances, the details that tell a story without saying a word. What began as a creative outlet quickly grew into something much bigger as families, seniors, and couples began trusting me with their most meaningful milestones.

Over the years, I’ve created a mix of both outdoor and studio spaces to give clients a variety of options, including The Rustic Shutter, my outdoor studio complete with a vintage truck, barn wall, and wood-stacked backdrops, and my in-studio setups that change seasonally for everything from classic portraits to Christmas minis.

I specialize in senior photography but also photograph families and milestone sessions throughout the year. What keeps me inspired is the connection — meeting new people, hearing their stories, and creating images that they can truly see themselves in. Every year brings new faces, returning clients, and new ideas, and I’m grateful that what started as a passion has grown into a full-time business doing what I love every day.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like most small business journeys, it definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road — but every challenge has taught me something valuable. When I first started, I had to wear every hat: photographer, editor, scheduler, marketer, and accountant. Finding that balance while also building a client base from scratch took time and persistence.

Another challenge has been learning to set boundaries and stand firm in my business practices. Photography is such a personal service, and it can be hard not to take things to heart when someone questions your pricing or process. Over time, I’ve learned that valuing my time and skill isn’t just important for me — it sets the tone for how clients value the experience too.

There have also been plenty of behind-the-scenes learning curves — from upgrading equipment to mastering studio lighting to managing the busy seasons without losing sight of why I started. But each obstacle has made me more confident, more organized, and more intentional about how I run my business today.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m the owner and photographer behind Behind the Shutter LLC, where my goal is simple — “Let me make your portraits as unique as you are.” I specialize in senior photography but also photograph families, couples, and milestone sessions throughout the year. My approach is personal and relaxed, focusing on creating images that genuinely reflect each person’s personality and story.

I’m most proud of the experience I’ve built for my clients. From the first message to the final gallery, I make it a priority to ensure they feel comfortable, confident, and informed every step of the way. Great photos come from trust and ease, so I take the time to walk clients through the process — from what to wear and where to shoot, to helping them choose their final images.

What sets me apart is the connection I build with each client and the attention to detail that goes into every session. My outdoor studio, The Rustic Shutter, offers a one-of-a-kind setting with features like a vintage truck, barn wall, and stacked wood backdrop, while my in-studio setups change seasonally to keep things fresh and creative. I truly want every person who steps in front of my camera to walk away with portraits — and an experience — that are as unique as they are.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
That’s a tough one, but if I had to choose, it would be spending hot summer evenings on the lake with my parents, my best friend, and her parents on their boat. We’d swim, ski, and tube until we were completely worn out, then wrap up in our beach towels and listen to Randy Travis and The Judds as we drifted along the gentle waves. Those nights were simple but perfect — full of laughter, friendship, and the kind of peace you only find on the water.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.behindtheshutterllc.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behindtheshutterllc?igsh=MWg5N3dnYmVlMXVkNQ==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/behindtheshutterllc/