Meet Sue Shutterbug | Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sue Shutterbug and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sue, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I am from a small town in Colorado. When I was young I was painfully shy. My mom even told me my teachers would ask her if I spoke at home because I had hardly said two words the whole year. I was the kid who would rather stay quiet than risk saying the wrong thing. My shyness also held me back from making friends and I often felt pretty lonely.

As I got older I realized I had to do something about it because my shyness was holding me back from fully enjoying life. so I decided I had to work on my confidence. I didn’t want to be the one standing in my own way from living my dreams. and I went from waiting for opportunities to come to me to actively pursuing what I wanted.

In 2022, I decided to challenge my confidence by taking self-portraits. I vividly remember how I felt that first time stepping in front of the camera. Suddenly I became very self conscious. As photographers we often forget how uncomfortable it feels to step in front of the camera. But as uncomfortable as it was I continued to take them and each self-portrait became a step towards reclaiming my voice.

Over time, something amazing happened. What started as a way to build my confidence led to opportunities I never expected. I got asked to be on podcasts, interviewed for magazines, and I even caught the attention of Adobe, who invited me to be part of a campaign about creativity and mental health! Suddenly, I was creating content for real brands and helping others overcome their struggles with confidence because of my self-portraits.

Taking self-portraits didn’t just help me become more comfortable in front of the camera—it helped me grow my business. and I went from being that shy small town girl who let her fears control her life, to living my dream, meeting amazing people, and getting paid to do what I love.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a photographer who is passionate about helping others feel beautiful and confident in front of the camera. Having experienced deep insecurities about my own appearance, I understand what it’s like to feel uncomfortable in photos. Over time, I transformed my own struggles with self-image into something empowering, and now, I strive to help others see the beauty in themselves that they might have overlooked.

What sets me apart is my genuine desire to help people feel confident, not just in how they look, but in who they are. I turned my biggest insecurity—my shyness—into my greatest strength by using it to connect with others on a deeper level. I create a space where my clients feel truly seen and heard, and this connection allows me to capture them in the most authentic and uplifting way possible.

It wasn’t an easy journey to get here. Like many, I faced self-doubt and had to overcome my own fear of putting myself out there. But through patience, practice, and a lot of self-reflection, I learned that my vulnerability could actually help others. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that true beauty comes from feeling confident in who you are, not just how you appear.

Through my brand, I want the world to know that everyone deserves to feel beautiful, worthy, and seen. Photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s about capturing the essence of who people truly are and reflecting back to them the confidence and strength that already exists within. That’s why I do what I do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Cortez, Colorado for a week, I’d plan an adventure filled with history, outdoor exploration, and a little local flavor. We’d start by exploring the charming downtown area, checking out unique shops, and indulging in some farm-to-table goodness at The Farm Bistro. The food scene in Cortez is vibrant, so we’d definitely enjoy a mix of local favorites, from fresh Mexican dishes at La Casita de Cortez to the relaxed atmosphere of WildEdge Brewing Collective for craft beers.

A visit to Mesa Verde National Park would be a highlight, where we’d spend hours exploring the ancient cliff dwellings and hiking trails that immerse you in the history of the Ancestral Puebloans. On another day, we’d venture to the nearby Canyons of the Ancients National Monument for more hiking and exploration of ancient ruins. It’s a quieter spot than Mesa Verde but just as breathtaking with its expansive desert landscapes.

We’d balance out the adventure with some relaxation too—perhaps a day lounging by McPhee Reservoir, renting kayaks, or enjoying a leisurely picnic. We’d also take the opportunity to soak in the local culture by visiting the Cortez Cultural Center and spending time at Sutcliffe Vineyards, sipping wine and taking in the stunning scenery.

For a little extra excitement, we’d likely take a day trip to Telluride, a short drive from Cortez. Whether for skiing in the winter or hiking and riding the gondola in the summer, it’s the perfect place to experience Colorado’s mountain beauty.

Throughout the week, we’d explore the surrounding area’s rich history, incredible nature, and laid-back vibe, making sure to enjoy the welcoming spirit of Cortez. It’s a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and simple relaxation that makes for an unforgettable trip.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my amazing parents, whose constant love and support have meant the world to me. Their pride in who I’ve become and their encouragement have helped me live my best life.

Website: https://sueshutterbug.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sue.shutterbug/

Image Credits
Sue Shutterbug