For Jennifer Butler, photography isn’t about perfect lighting or picture-perfect poses. It’s about people. It’s about stories. And above all, it’s about connection.

At Aurora Photography and Design, the business Jennifer owns and operates, the goal is simple: to help people feel seen, celebrated, and beautifully themselves. “We don’t just take photos—we create an experience that helps people feel comfortable, confident, and celebrated,” Jennifer says. “With a focus on genuine emotion, thoughtful styling, and a warm, down-to-earth approach, we craft images that feel timeless and true to who you are.”

Based in the St. Louis area, Jennifer has spent the past 22 years turning her passion into a purpose-driven career. Whether she’s working with expectant mothers, families, entrepreneurs, or clients stepping into their first boudoir session, her mission remains steady: to create a relaxed, empowering environment and tell an authentic story through each frame.

“I specialize in capturing authentic, emotion-driven portraits,” Jennifer explains. “My ideal clients are those who value connection and meaningful experiences—people who want to be guided through a session where their personality and emotions shine through.”

Jennifer’s work spans a wide range—maternity, newborn, family, boudoir, and professional headshots—each tailored to reflect the client’s unique story. What makes her approach different is how deeply personal each session becomes. “Many of my clients even say they feel like I’m their ‘hype-girl’—offering support, encouragement, and enthusiasm throughout the session,” she says.

That enthusiasm has roots in Jennifer’s personal story. Raised in Hillsboro, Missouri, she earned her Bachelor of Fine Art from the University of Missouri–St. Louis and has lived nearby all her life. But it was her husband Aaron who gave her the final push to launch Aurora Photography. “He’s my biggest cheerleader,” Jennifer says. “He encouraged me to take the leap and start Aurora Photography, and he continues to support me both physically and emotionally—whether it’s helping at studio events or providing steady encouragement when I need it most.”

Together, Jennifer and Aaron are raising their daughter Amelia, whom Jennifer describes as “amazingly smart and caring, but feisty young lady.” Family life fuels much of Jennifer’s work, and she’s open about how her home and business worlds intertwine. “We love chilling on the couch with our two dogs and three cats, or frolicking around the STL Zoo or Grant’s Farm. Being outdoors on the weekends creates amazing memories.”

That sense of presence is at the core of how Jennifer defines success. “To me, success is not defined by the money you make, but the happiness that comes from it,” she reflects. “Being able to be present for things my daughter needs me there for, and time for myself is total success.”

Still, the journey hasn’t come without setbacks. In 2022, her photography studio burned down. “To be honest—we don’t have an amazing work/life balance,” Jennifer says candidly. “But boundaries are back on our radar—to give us more family time late in the year.”

Resilience, she believes, is key. “Consistency, resilience, and a true love for what I do have also played a huge role. Even in the face of challenges… I’ve stayed committed to my clients and my craft.”

For real estate agents and top producers, Jennifer believes her services offer more than polished branding. “I provide an experience that leaves people feeling seen, confident, and celebrated,” she says. “My enthusiasm and ability to hype people up means clients will leave the session not only with exceptional photos, but also with an energized, positive experience.”

And while many photographers niche down, Jennifer prides herself on being a name clients can return to again and again. “We don’t focus on one niche of photography—we want to be a household name,” she says. “Whether it’s personal or professional photography, the biggest compliment is when someone trusts me with both.”

For Jennifer, it always comes back to connection. “The ability to capture someone’s real essence and show them just how amazing they are—that’s what lights me up.”

For more information, please reach out to Jennifer Butler at jennifer@auroraphotodesign.com or visit www.auroraphotodesign.com.