Creativity Meets Strategy
Elegance Meets Excellence
Hey There! I’m Shea Butler
My full name is Shealan Faere Butler. I’m a barefoot, nature-loving storyteller with a camera in one hand, production schedules, and a world of ideas in the other. Growing up in South Africa with a single mom and four big brothers, I learned early on how to make magic out of chaos. We didn’t have much, but we had imagination. I’d spend my days running wild on the beach, creating stories, and putting on “productions” for anyone willing to watch.
South Africa shaped me. Life wasn’t always easy, but it built a fire in me—a tough, determined spirit that can get things done, no matter the challenge.
From Failing Auditions to Finding My Groove
I’ve always loved storytelling, so I studied acting—until I realized auditions made me crumble. I mean, seriously, picture this: me, in front of casting directors, turning into a nervous wreck, forgetting lines, tearing up. It was bad. Like, ‘come home crying and rethink all my life choices’ bad. So, I shifted gears. I fell in love with being behind the camera, where I could still create stories. I decided to train as a scriptwriter and film producer at university.
The Journey from Wedding Photographer to Creative Director
Out of uni, to earn a living, I found my feet in wedding photography, traveling the world to capture couples' most beautiful moments. Every click of the shutter felt like creating mini-stories, I loved the beauty and romance. This led to a passion for lifestyle photography and filmmaking, and before I knew it, I was working with agencies, producing content that felt real and vibrant.
In 2020, inspired by Jenna Kutcher’s approach to digital marketing, I launched my first podcast, diving headfirst into content creation. It wasn’t long before I found myself working with celebrities, crafting videos for Instagram and YouTube, and getting a behind-the-scenes look at how authentic content makes waves online.
Turning Passion into a Freelance Dream
Eventually, I took the leap and started to develop Shea Butler Media. Now, I work with amazing clients who share my vision for creating content that feels honest, raw, and beautiful. We vibe together, and that’s the magic—making projects that are more than just pretty pictures, but stories that resonate and with meaning!
But don’t get me wrong, the journey hasn’t been all beach sunsets and perfect shots. I’ve faced the feast-or-famine of freelancing, I ended up living in my van during some very rainy months in the UK. It was miserable and finding work was hard! I learned (sometimes the hard way) about creating systems that work, and have come out the other side more excited than ever to help businesses, influencers, and dreamers like you share your story with the world.
Let’s Create Some Elegance and Excellence Together
Whether you need content for your brand, a film to capture your story or a media producer that feels 100% you—I’m here for it. Together, we’ll craft something that not only looks good but feels true to who you are and your brand messaging.
📷 Ready to create?
Let’s chat and see how we can bring your vision to life. Click Here to Get Started.
A few fun facts about me
I’m a lover of poetry and philosophy.
I am a skateboarder and have been skating since I was 14. Skating barefoot along the beach is a favorite pastime.
If you work with me, expect enthusiasm!
Shealan means ‘Little wise one, protector of the wee folk’ In case you are looking for a baby name.
I am passionate about deeply understanding people and helping them flourish. In my first podcast, I explore Jungian psychology and the temparement theory and addiction. You can still find the podcast online by searching OUR JOURNEY TO EDEN PODCAST.
My latest podcast is called TOP-UP TUESDAY. Which plays on my love for refreshing people with goodness, I believe this is part of my purpose as a woman, to refresh and encourage others through my creativity, stories and tools that help others.