Conversations with Elyse Rowland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elyse Rowland.

Hi Elyse, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
While pursuing my degree in Graphic Design, I needed a photography credit to graduate. That one class ended up being a turning point in my life. Ironically, I failed Digital Photography 101 the first time around—skipping too many classes—but was required to retake it with the same professor. He saw potential in my eye for composition and, while he didn’t go easy on me, he offered thoughtful critique and encouragement that sparked something in me.

I started experimenting with Manual mode on my camera, and soon I was hooked. Friends began asking me to take their photos, and little by little I learned how to run a photography business while continuing to build my skills behind the lens.

In 2011, I had my first child, and that deepened everything. Motherhood gave me new eyes and a stronger desire to preserve real moments. It wasn’t long before I was documenting not just my own growing family, but others’, too.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Anything worth doing will come with struggles—and it’s those very struggles that reveal who’s truly passionate about the craft. I’m so glad I didn’t give up. Especially in the early years of my business, I’d walk away from sessions with this persistent feeling: I could’ve done better. But instead of letting it discourage me, I let it drive me.

I enrolled in professional courses, saved up for a workshop with a photographer I deeply admired, and made practice a daily discipline. I carried my camera everywhere—capturing everyday moments with my kids, chasing pretty light, learning by doing. Slowly but surely, that consistent effort began to show. The gaps closed and my confidence grew.

While it is sometimes difficult to balance homeschooling my children, taking care of the home, and also running a thriving business, it’s 100% worth the effort! It’s been the greatest blessing of my life to do meaningful work while also having the flexibility to be home with my children.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a lifestyle family and newborn photographer. This means I focus on capturing real connection, natural movement, and the beautifully unscripted moments that make each family unique. My goal is for every session to feel like an experience—playful, relaxed, and a representation of their genuine connection. I love creating images that remind my clients of the little things: the way their baby fit perfectly in their arms, the sound of their kids’ laughter, or the special activities their family does in their free time.

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Risk-taking is part of any successful business, but I believe those risks should be intentional and well-considered. When I started my photography business, I kept things simple—using just the essential equipment and paying cash for every piece I purchased. I was determined to keep my overhead low while building something sustainable.

In the beginning, I used free software to manage my growing client list. But as my business grew, I began investing in tools that improved the experience for my clients—like streamlined client communication and gallery delivery systems. Still, I never rush into purchases. I spend hours researching before buying anything new, always asking: Will this truly serve my clients?

It’s easy in the photography world to get swept up in the latest gear—shiny new camera bodies and lenses, fancy editing software, the most beautiful CRM. But the truth is, great photography isn’t about the gear. A truly great image comes from connection, light, intention, and storytelling. A camera can only do so much—the magic comes in how a photo feels to the person holding it in their hands.

Pricing:

• Full sessions start at $600
• Seasonal Mini Sessions start at $250

Contact Info:

• Website: https://elyserowlandphotography.mypixieset.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elyserowlandphoto
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elyserowlandphoto