About me

Hey, I’m Tanner Payton – the dad behind the lens at Sage & Swaddle.

I’m a husband, a father of two, and someone who’s been chasing creative dreams since middle school — back when I was sure I’d become a multi-millionaire YouTuber. Spoiler alert: that didn’t exactly work out (turns out shouting into a webcam isn’t a retirement plan). But what did stick was my passion for storytelling through video and photography.

I started filming weddings in 2018 and taking photos on the side, but over time, I realized what truly pulled at my heart: the quiet, powerful beauty of motherhood. Now, I know what you might be thinking — “Why would a guy choose maternity photography?” And honestly, that’s a fair question.

After watching my wife carry our children, I developed a deep respect for the strength, grace, and emotion that comes with pregnancy. Those months are sacred — raw, beautiful, exhausting, and full of anticipation. I wanted to create a space where moms could feel truly seen, celebrated, and empowered during one of the most meaningful seasons of their lives. That’s why Sage & Swaddle exists.

I also understand how expensive having a baby can be. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to keep sessions affordable for families who want to remember these fleeting moments without sacrificing elegance or quality.

Thank you for being here. I’d be honored to help tell your story — with honesty, beauty, and a whole lot of heart.