life frameD

A woman in shadow looks toward a brightly lit window with frosted, colorful panes.
A man in a black cape embroidered with firework designs stands behind another man in a beige vest, both looking off-camera with intense expressions.
Worried woman holding a book while someone hugs her during a stage performance.
A conductor with long, wavy hair, wearing a black jacket and white shirt, stands in dark lighting, holding a baton over sheet music.
A man stands over a person lying on a low surface, dramatically lit from above by blue light in a dark scene.

by performance

My rural roots keep me grounded, while my experience fuels creative solutions for every project. Let’s collaborate to craft heartfelt, enduring photographs that tell your story, no matter the occasion.

About Crystal Shutter Photography

Performance Photography

Portrait of a man in a suit jacket and polo shirt, smiling against a dark background.

I’m Chad Mitchell from Vulcan Alberta Canada;  a photographer rooted in the countryside, where my love for capturing life’s genuine moments took hold in childhood. With a camera as my constant companion, I’ve spent decades perfecting my craft, creating images that seize the heart of every moment with authenticity.


Beyond the fields, I’m drawn to the vibrant world of opera, skillfully photographing performances to capture their drama and emotion.  My services include, but are not limited to, opera photography, family portraits, and candid event shots, adapting to any client’s vision with ease. Whether it’s the intensity of a live performance or the warmth of a family moment, I create images that resonate.
Flexibility defines my approach at CrystalShutter Photography. I’m dedicated to understanding your needs, ensuring personalized support to bring your ideas to life.

While my roots are rural, my lens is open to the world — and I’m available to travel anywhere my work is needed.