Elle Payne is an absolute powerhouse. Starting out as a paediatric nurse, she transitioned into newborn photography and built a studio that now photographs over 300 newborns a year with a team of paediatric nurses, two young kids of her own, and only shooting one day a week. Yes, you read that right.
This interview is gold. We kick off with “Inspiration Elle” – the dreamer, the feeler, the creator, sharing stories about building a studio and truly understanding that you’re in the baby business, not just the photography business.
Then halfway through, she flicks the switch and “Business Elle” takes over. And wow, she does not hold back. She’s unapologetic about running a strong business, she loves the numbers, and she’s crystal clear about the habits and decisions that have built her success. She talks openly about how coaching, education, and community have shaped her thinking because others can see the blind spots we can’t.
We unpack the big questions every photographer needs to be asking:
- What’s your magic number — per year, per month, per week and why does it matter to you?
- How many sessions do you need to hit it?
- How many leads do you realistically need, and how does that impact conversion rates?
- What does “pay to play” actually look like in today’s market?
- And why every business has seasons — and that’s okay.
Elle also drops the truth bomb that business owners need to hear…
In the most lovingly non-compassionate way… “No one cares – work harder.”
Or, to put it another way: “Your business, your fault”
This episode is the perfect kick up the bum as we head into 2026 – equal parts tough love, clarity, heart, and pure inspiration. You’re going to feel this one.