How Melissa Butler Captures Regret and Depression in Her Photography

Melissa Butler is a talented photographer whose work dives deep into themes like depression, isolation, regret, and fear. With a passion for analog photography and the cinematic intimacy of her style, Melissa creates images that feel like they capture fleeting, hidden moments. In this interview, Melissa opens up about her creative journey, the significance of her conceptual series Slow Wave, and how collaboration with others—especially her husband—fuels her creativity. She also shares insights on overcoming challenges, the therapeutic nature of her work, and the importance of kindness and connection in the art world.

I am a photographer with exhibits that have been featured across the country. I work primarily with themes including depression, isolation, regret, and fear. I primarily use a large format 4×5 camera to make my images, all analog, because I love the control of the image that you can achieve and the way that it really makes you slow down to craft the perfect picture. I am also one of the founding members of From the Garage Productions, a production company focused on narrative filmmaking and creating immersive companion pieces to the films including teasers, multimedia formats such as cassette tapes and VHS releases, and more. In addition to being a founder, I am also the Director of Photography on all projects.

1. How would you describe your art style and what inspired you to become an artist?

I’d say my art style is cinematic yet intimate, capturing a moment in time that no one was meant to see. As early as I can remember I’ve been making all different kinds of art using all types of mediums. I always knew I was going to make art for a living, but it wasn’t until my high school photography class that I decided I wanted to be a photographer.

I think that exploring the themes in my work and shaping the narratives and concepts is really therapeutic and has really helped me deal with a lot of my past traumas and present fears and insecurities.

Melissa Butler

2. Can you describe a memorable experience or project that significantly impacted your career?

My series, Slow Wave, was my very first conceptual work. I’ve been working on this series for quite a while now and I’m still constantly adding to and exploring it as a body of work. It was my first series that received a lot of attention from galleries and buyers and it has a lot of really personal meaning for me.

3. How do you approach collaboration with other artists or creatives?

I absolutely love collaborating with other creatives! It’s amazing how much we can inspire one another when we work together. My favorite person to collaborate with is my husband. He’s a writer/director and I’m his cinematographer, and it’s just so rewarding to work together and craft these awesome, beautiful stories.

4. What has been the most rewarding aspect of your art journey?

I think that exploring the themes in my work and shaping the narratives and concepts is really therapeutic and has really helped me deal with a lot of my past traumas and present fears and insecurities.

I primarily use a large format 4×5 camera to make my images, all analog, because I love the control of the image that you can achieve and the way that it really makes you slow down to craft the perfect picture.

Melissa Butler

5. What advice would you give to the aspiring artists?

Be kind to each other. We have so much to learn from one another and we can achieve so much more when we work together instead of competing against each other.

Melissa Butler’s photography isn’t just about creating beautiful images—it’s about connecting with people on a deeper level. Her journey as an artist shows the power of creativity to heal, inspire, and bring people together. To learn more about Melissa, visit the links below.