Today we’d like to introduce you to Paula Butler.
Hi Paula, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story as a business owner began in Argentina. I am originally from Lago Puelo, Chubut, in Patagonia. At 17 years old, I moved to Buenos Aires to pursue my studies and earned my Professional Photography degree in 2015.
After moving to California, I spent several years working for other photographers and businesses before starting my own photography business in 2021. Over the past three years, I have dedicated myself fully to growing it into what it is today.
I have always loved working with babies. Before becoming a newborn photographer, I gained valuable experience as a caregiver, which taught me how to safely and confidently care for newborns and young children. Later, I expanded my skills as a newborn photographer and digital retoucher, learning every aspect of the creative process.
Being able to combine these experiences into my own business has been incredibly rewarding. Today, I get to use both my technical photography skills and my experience working with babies to create a comfortable, enjoyable experience for families while capturing some of the most meaningful moments of their lives.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. I am constantly facing and working through obstacles. To be completely honest, the business side of things has always been the biggest challenge for me.
One reason is that I am not originally from the United States, so I have had to learn how to navigate a system that was entirely new to me. Building a business while adapting to a different culture, different regulations, and a different way of doing things has been a continuous learning experience.
Marketing has also been a challenge. I am a photographer first, not a marketing expert, so learning how to promote my business effectively has required a lot of trial and error, education, and persistence.
The list of obstacles is actually quite long, but if I had to choose the two biggest ones, they would be learning to navigate a new business environment and figuring out how to market myself effectively. Even so, overcoming those challenges has helped me grow, both personally and professionally.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an in-home newborn photographer, and one of my proudest accomplishments has been building my own business from the ground up. I took the leap before I felt completely ready, trusting that I would learn and grow along the way; and that is exactly what happened. Through this journey, I have grown not only as a photographer, but also as a business owner and as a person.
Moving to a new country and starting a business without a large support system required courage, resilience, and a willingness to face uncertainty head-on. Every challenge pushed me to grow, and every family I have photographed has reinforced my passion for what I do.
What sets me apart is the experience I provide. I bring a complete professional studio directly into my clients’ homes, allowing families to enjoy a beautiful newborn photography experience without the stress of packing up and leaving the house during those precious early days. My clients receive the convenience and comfort of an in-home session without sacrificing quality.
I also believe that every family deserves a personalized experience. I take the time to understand what is most meaningful to my clients and work closely with them to create images that reflect their story, their style, and the moments they want to remember forever.
I am, as well, currently developing an IPS (In-Person Sales) and luxury client experience focused on custom wall art, heirloom albums, and curated collections. My goal is to personally guide each family through the image-selection process and help them transform their favorite moments into timeless artwork for their home.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
My first language is Spanish so I do a lot of podcasts in Spanish. Those would be anywhere that brings Gabriel Rolón in (Argentinean psychotherapist). I also love “What now?” with Trevor Noah, The Diary of a CEO, Financial Feminist, and anywhere where Esther Perel and Brené Brown are at. Yes, I love psychology!
Pricing:
- 450 session fee, includes a 200 usd print credit.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.paulabutlerphoto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulabutlerphotography/
