Many know sophomore Payten Elliott for her involvement in Johnny Mac’s Coffeehouse or being the default photographer for Cathedral events. Although, throughout her time at Cathedral and even before, she has been involved in much more. Not only does she participate in the above-mentioned extracurriculars, she’s also academically successful, has her own photography business, PG (Payten Grace) Productions, and participates in Softball. 

Behind the camera, Payten has built her reputation off of being a great friend, classmate, and teammate. Throughout class and her activities, she’s always had a huge smile on her face.

Charlie Bangert ‘28, Johnny Mac’s Chief Operations Officer, said, “Payten has always been a driven, hard-working individual who puts forth a great product every time.”   

Despite her busy schedule, Payten has consistently stood out in academics as well, advanced in courses like mathematics and World Language. She has consistently managed a rigorous course load while balancing other responsibilities. She attributes strong time management and dedication to success to maximize her potential.

Elliott said, “Throughout my life, my mom has always told me that as long as I’m doing the best I can, that’s good enough. Therefore, I’ve always pushed myself to do the best I can. When I attended school in Brownsburg, I was in the High Ability program, so being challenged has definitely contributed to my work ethic.” 

During the football season of her freshman year, Payten recalls watching all of the photographers on the field and thought it was a really cool experience. At one game, she turned to her family and said that’d be her one day. She constantly talked about it and her grandmother eventually allowed her to borrow a camera.

She shot her first game in late spring ‘25. She ended up really enjoying it and contacted Lacey Nix (OhSnap Photography) who she says is her idol. Elliott said, “OhSnap has always been someone I can look up to with this stuff and I’ve always pictured myself on the sidelines, the courtside or just anywhere. Sometimes, I feel like I was made to have a camera in my hands and I love it.” 

Payten’s mark on Cathedral will be more than the thousands of photos she has taken and will take throughout the remainder of her high school career. As Cathedral continues its 50 Years of Women celebration, Payten has surely established herself as a role model for the future through athletics, academics, and friendship.