May 8, 2025

Shutterfest 2025

Conferences
Ethereal vintage-style portrait with flowing beige dress and blue armchair against misty forest backdrop.
Joyful model in a sparkling red strapless gown poses with hands in curly hair against a textured stone wall.
Dark cosplay portrait featuring a model in black dress wielding a purple lightsaber in a sci-fi themed environment.
Studio portrait of someone in a striped casual shirt and dark pants standing against a dramatic shadowy background.

My ShutterFest Experience: A Photographer’s Perspective


Introduction

ShutterFest is known as one of the most hands-on, unconventional photography conferences in the U.S., and this year, I had the opportunity to experience it firsthand in St. Louis, Missouri. From creative photo walks to live shoots with models, ShutterFest delivered a unique blend of learning, networking, and creative freedom. Here’s a look at my personal experience.


Why I Decided to Attend

I had heard about ShutterFest through my dad back in 2021 and was drawn to the promise of hands-on education and a supportive community. With my goals for the year focused on building my portfolio and taking photography seriously - it felt like the perfect opportunity for me.


First Impressions

Upon arriving at Union Station, the venue was buzzing with energy. The combination of historic architecture and modern flair set the tone for a week of creativity. I was pleasantly surprised at badge pickup, when I noticed that the badge was in the shape of a shutter! (so fitting)


Sessions and Classes

One of the best parts of ShutterFest is the variety of classes — from lighting and posing to business and editing.

  • Favorite Class(es): This one is hard, I enjoyed all of the classes that I attended, and I think I chose them according to what I wanted to work on for this year. Though, if I had to choose one (maybe two) it would be The Hurley Triangle with Peter Hurley and Posing under Pressure with Kristin Jones. I highly recommend these two classes if you attend Shutterfest in the future.
  • Biggest Takeaway: The biggest takeaway from this years conference for me was to simply "get out there and shoot." I learned so much from experienced professionals and it was nice being able to knowledge share with like minded people but to also PRACTICE what I was learning in class. Oftentimes as a portrait photographer, I am waiting for clients to practice my skills and learn more. I am realizing that I am actually doing myself a disservice as I need to continue shooting and brushing up on my skills daily.


Community and Connections

What sets ShutterFest apart is the people. Photographers from all levels come together in a laid-back, collaborative environment.


Tips for First-Timers

If you’re considering attending ShutterFest in the future, here are a few tips I’d share based on my experience:

  • Tip 1: BRING COMFORTABLE SHOES!
  • I cannot stress this enough, you will be on your feet all day. From classes, to walking the trade floor, to even after hours shoots, you will be walking a ton!
  • Tip 2: Buy what you need, and not what you want, well sometimes.
  • There will be tons of vendors on the trade floor, and it will definitely be tempting to purchase new, and exciting camera equipment. Think about your needs, and not what you want. Your wallet will thank you later.
  • Tip 3: Don't be afraid to ask questions!
  • This is truly a learning experience, you're there to learn. Don't be afraid to ask questions and fail forward.


Final Thoughts

Attending ShutterFest was a game-changer for me. I left feeling more inspired, more knowledgeable, and more connected to the photography community. If you’re a photographer who loves to learn by doing, I couldn’t recommend it more.


See ya next year, ShutterFest!

Shutterfest, Conferences