About

we walk each day.

stories

and the

humanity

For the love of

Photography is so much more than aesthetics. It’s preserving memories and celebrating authenticity by making each person feel their best in front of the camera. It’s this approach that fuels my work and makes it fun for us both.

Hi, I’m Shelby! I care a lot about people and their stories, and I’m so glad our paths are crossing. 

My journey started with developing photos in the dark room, where I fell in love with the art of storytelling through film. Fast-forward 15 years later, and my passion for storytelling is still very much alive and grows with each connection I make with my clients. 

I’m not the “pose you for every shot” type of photographer, so let’s set aside the social media expectations and restrictive shot lists. My art exists in the in-between moments where the inconspicuous meets the undeniably inspired—the moments that show you as you really are. You are the main character.

When we work together, I strive to create an atmosphere free of distractions. Think of it as a moment to be unplugged, a safe space where you’re free to be yourself. With me, you’ll never have to choose between breathtaking images and an intentional, healing experience. You can have both!

refreshing honesty.

We're told stories every day. My fulfillment comes from documenting yours as it unfolds with

As seen in

I like to describe myself as a free soul, always in awe of the wonder-drenched world around us! I use love as my compass and seek the good in all things.

On any given day, you can find me trying to keep up with my daughter, laughing way too loud, drinking more Sport Tea than I should, and probably indulging my sweet tooth with a sprinkles-topped donut. 

As a Colorado native, I’d rather be barefoot, dipping my feet in the Poudre River. But when that’s not an option, visiting a concert at Red Rocks usually does the trick. Nature excites me, the city inspires me, and I strive to infuse love in all I do. 

But what you really should know is that getting to know you is part of this job I value most. I can’t wait to tell your story! 

know me

Getting to

My daughter is way cooler than me. Like…1,000 times cooler.

I freaking love the Rocky Mountains, and have a big obsession with Longs Peak. No I have not climbed it, but one day I will!

I’m a multi-passionate creative and work full-time as a photographer and videographer outside of Shel Francis! What can I say, I love me some visual storytelling.

Concerts are definitely my love language. I’ve seen my favorite band 11 times. 

I have two labradors, and I love them dearly no matter how much I have to vacuum in a day. 

My spouse and I intentionally got married on Leap Day. Yeah, we are weird. But I love it.

Random Facts About Me

My loved ones inspire me deeply. My grandfather, Francis, was and still is a pillar of love and inspiration for me. After his passing, I wanted to pay tribute to him and use his name in one of the most passionate areas of my life—photography. The Shel Francis name was born as a tribute to him and a desire to infuse my life and relationships with love and affirmation.

the Name

Behind

Behind the Name

Story

The

Showing up authentically for my clients and providing the value that is promised is what matters most. With candor and genuineness as the north star of my creative process, you can expect exceptional experiences, services, and products every time.

Wholeness

Driven by connection and empathy, I strive to create a client process that makes you feel seen and understood. Because you shouldn’t have to choose between a beautiful gallery and a healing photography experience.

Heart

I’m committed to perfecting my craft, being a forever learner, and listening intently to better serve and celebrate you. You help make this business what it is. 

Innovation

I believe in a human-first approach to life and business and welcome all to my art and space regardless of their identities, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, or language. I commit to bettering my understanding of the diverse experiences held by individuals and families.

Inclusion

My Values

Elise Boraski

in any way that she could.

wanted to help

and

bubbly, enthusiastic,

From our very first meeting she was 

with how personable and amazing she is!

blew us away

Shel

Nicole Knuckles

the pleasure of working with.

person I have ever got the pleasure of working with.

photographer/

photographer/person I have ever got 

talented

Kind hearted, vibrant,

Shelby is the most

Shelby is the most

Megan, MEGAN.DANIELLE.IMAGES

to showcase all sides of my personality in the images.

fun

and

play

I was going for while still allowing time for 

the more serious “bold” vibe

perfectly capture

Shel was able to 

Misty Guitierrez

perfect location!

the most

location ideas and of course from her recommendations we found the most

location ideas and of course from her recommendations we found

different

send me 

 She took the time to 

working with her.

working with her. She took the time to send me 

loved

I reached out to Shelby for our first ever family photos. I absolutely

Let's go!

through my lens?

see  yourself

Ready to

Based in Northern Colorado, I like to describe myself as a free soul always in awe of the really cool world around us! On any given day, you can find me trying to keep up with my daughter, laughing way too loud and probably enjoying a really pretty donut. I use love as my compass and seek the good in all…while drinking way too much Sport Tea. As a Colorado native, I’d rather be barefoot dipping my feet in the Poudre river, but when that can’t happen, visiting a concert at Red Rocks usually does the trick. Nature excites me, the city inspires me and I strive to infuse love in all that I do!

Shel

Hey, I'm

Navigate

Based in Northern Colorado, I like to describe myself as a free soul always in awe of the really cool world around us! Nature excites me, the city inspires me and I strive to infuse love in all that I do!

Shel

Hey, I'm

Navigate