Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shannon Payne. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Shannon, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

I started my photography business when I was on maternity leave with my 2nd son. I have my Masters degree in teaching, but once I became a mom I lost my passion for education. My husband talked me into getting a nice camera after our son was born, and my love for baby photography was born. I learned how to use my camera by taking photos of my 3 month old, and before I knew it friends were asking me to take photos of their kids. The next thing I knew, my bank was asking me if I was running a business and suggested that I open a separate business checking account.

The growth of my business continued to follow in that same manner, like little stepping stones. As my son grew, we came closer and closer to me returning to my teaching career. I knew in my hear that I did not want to return to the classroom, but I was scared to take the next step with my photography business. Around this same time, my husband was offered a new position in Nashville. With the move, it seemed like a great time to give my business a try. So I resigned from my teaching position, gave up my salary and benefits, and decided to put my heart and soul in starting my business. 13 years later, I am so glad I took the risk!

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Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

As my business grew, I found that I loved photographing babies and newborns. I began going to training and mentorships to learn as much as I could. I love working with young families and especially tiny babies. It reminds me of when my boys were little. I always say being a newborn photographer is like being a grandma. I get to see the babies when they are happy and content, and then give them back to their parents when they get fussy!

My boys are now 16 and 13, and I feel like they have grown in the blink of an eye. Photos are one of the best ways to remember when your babies are small, and I am honored to help parents document that time.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

As I mentioned before, I knew my business was growing when my bank suggested that I open up a business checking account. Coming from an education background, I did not know much about starting a business. I then learned how to get a business license, insurance, etc. Once I decided to resign from my teaching career, my husband and I set goals for how much I needed to make per month. When I consistently exceeded that amount, we raised it. At first my salary simply covered preschool tuition for my boys. As my business grew, we increased my monthly contributions. Last year I went from renting a studio to purchasing my very own space! I have owned my current studio for a year now, and it is one of the milestones that I am most proud of.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I believe that my business has been successful because I have built a good reputation with my clients. I am open and honest and love to share my personal life. Most clients leave my studio, and I feel like we can become friends. As clients return with their 2nd, 3rd, or even 4th babies, I do feel like we have become friends. Handing your new baby over to a stranger can be intimidating, and I try to make my studio and sessions as comfortable as possible. The best compliment is when a client returns or refers me to one of their friends.

Contact Info:

• Website: shannonpaynephotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonpaynephotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannonpaynephotography
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/aV7tWrdEN6c
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/shannon-payne-photography-hendersonville

Image Credits
Shannon Payne Photography