By: Alegre de Pilipinas Janice Delima
Blue Apples Photography, founded by John Butts, is a fashion and beauty photography studio that has built a reputation for capturing beauty in unexpected ways. The studio focuses on reframing perspectives and shedding light on the often-overlooked beauty that exists in the world around us. With an emphasis on elegance and authenticity, Blue Apples Photography inspires confidence and helps to elevate self-esteem through the powerful lens of the camera.
The goal of Blue Apples Photography is not just to take beautiful photos but to reveal the true essence of the people in front of the lens, showing them how beautiful they really are, inside and out. Every photograph is crafted with care and precision, and John takes pride in the transformative power that his photography has on his clients, as well as the profound emotional reactions his work often elicits.
John’s journey as a photographer began at the age of 15, but it wasn’t until he joined the US Air Force that he truly found his passion for photography. While traveling the world, John became captivated by the diverse cultures, environments, and the vast array of human expressions. His experiences during his time in the Air Force heavily influenced his photography, which evolved to capture the diversity of the human spirit.
For John, the most rewarding aspect of photography is not the fame or financial gain, but the genuine joy he sees in the eyes of those he works with. He is driven by the profound, non-verbal feedback he receives from clients when they see themselves in a new light. This authentic and often life-changing moment is what keeps him passionate about his craft.
The philosophy behind Blue Apples Photography is clear: “See the beauty I see in all people, from my heart and through my lens. Share the beauty and elegance of the world and build or re-build self-esteem.” This quote encapsulates John’s approach to photography—capturing not just the outward appearance of his subjects, but their true essence, allowing them to see themselves in ways they may never have imagined. John believes that everyone has unique beauty and that photography has the power to reveal that beauty to the world.
In a world where many people struggle with self-esteem and body image, Blue Apples Photography stands as a beacon of positivity and empowerment.
Photo Courtesy: John Butts / Blue Apples Photography
While Blue Apples Photography specializes in fashion and beauty, John has developed a particular love for underwater photography. This unique style allows him to create stunning, ethereal portraits, often involving models in flowing gowns as they swim through the water.
The process requires patience, trust, and collaboration, as the models move gracefully in the water while John captures their movement and beauty from below the surface. The result is breathtaking imagery that conveys elegance, grace, and fluidity.
John’s passion for underwater photography is a reflection of his approach to life and art: it’s all about capturing moments of beauty that are fleeting but deeply impactful. The photographs he creates are a testament to his ability to find beauty in unconventional places and show the world that there’s always more than meets the eye.
John’s work is influenced by his personal life, particularly his family and his love for travel. John met his wife, Tricia, while serving in the US Air Force. Tricia is an Australian native, and the couple has four children: Danny, Kait, Ally, and Sam. Together, they have built a life full of adventure and discovery, and John’s travels have only deepened his appreciation for different cultures and experiences.
Through his travels and work, John has experienced diverse environments, from the streets of bustling cities to serene, secluded locations. These experiences have helped shape his approach to photography, enabling him to tell stories that transcend borders and cultures.
John continues to travel the world, documenting his experiences and those of the people he meets along the way. His travels have not only expanded his photography portfolio but also deepened his understanding of the world’s diversity. The beauty he finds in different cultures is reflected in the photos he takes, and he strives to bring that sense of global perspective into every shoot.
Blue Apples Photography has made a name for itself through its stunning visual storytelling, and John continues to look forward to future projects. One of the exciting upcoming events is John’s participation in the International Japan Fashion Gala in August 2026. This prestigious event will showcase John’s work alongside other talented photographers and designers, and it is expected to attract a diverse and international audience.
Photo Courtesy: John Butts / Blue Apples Photography
For inquiries, collaborations, or to book a session, Blue Apples Photography can be reached at:
Phone: 720-206-5869
Location: Denver, Colorado, USA
Instagram: @blu_apples_photography
Facebook: Blue Apples Photography
“Life is too short to put off till tomorrow.” This guiding philosophy underpins not just John’s work, but the ethos of Blue Apples Photography as a whole. Blue Apples Photography is not just about taking photographs; it’s about capturing the heart and soul of the world, one frame at a time.
