F-Stop Collaborate and Listen

Епизоде

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  Your Special Sauce: How to Find Your Unique Photographic Voice | Meredith Fontana 14.09.2026 1ч 14мин

  In episode 491 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with guest Meredith Fontana, a Denver-based landscape photographer and former paleontologist, about the journey toward discovering a unique photographic voice. Drawing on her scientific background, Meredith Fontana highlights how observation skills honed in paleontology have profoundly shaped her approach to photography, allowing her to notice and capture details that many overlook. The conversation explores why deeply personal connections to subject matter are vital for moving beyond technical mastery and instead creating work rooted in authentic experience rather than chasing trends or iconic locations. Meredith Fontana shares strategies for photographers struggling to find their own vision, including the importance of solitude, immersion in nature, and mindful inward reflection—citing practices such as journaling, meditation, and extended wilderness trips as powerful catalysts for creative growth. The episode also touches on challenges women face in outdoor photography, the benefits of community and mentorship, and the goals of her Nature Photography Academy, which helps photographers transition from technical proficiency to artistic expression. Throughout, both speakers stress the value of pursuing what excites you and allowing your authentic interests to guide your creative process, ultimately encouraging listeners to identify and lean into the unique elements that set their photography apart. Resources and Links: Meredith Fontana Muench Workshops Giveaway Nature Photography Academy 12 Inches Behind the Camera Substack Colorado Mountain Club Freedom App Digital Minimalism Tool Cal Newport's Deep Work James Evans David Ulrich's The Mindful Photographer PLOS ONE (journal) Matt Payne's Book, The Colorado Way Support the show on Patreon Bonus episode on Photography Exhibitions Questions asked at the end:  What is one moment in your photography journey that you keep coming back to, and what do you think it has been trying to teach you? What belief about your photography, your location, your gear, or your own ability have you quietly outgrown, but are still living inside? What would your photography look like if you stopped waiting for the right conditions, the right destination, or the right season, and simply committed to where you are right now? Who could you become as a photographer if you stopped telling the old version of your story? Timestamped Overview: 00:00 Influence of paleontology on photography 08:45 Capturing passion in photography 11:46 Finding Answers Within Yourself 20:07 Recalibrating attention through nature 25:42 Dealing with constant work interruptions 30:20 Slowing down to observe nature 36:03 Types of Photography Academy Participants 41:45 Expressing your unique artistic voice 45:04 Discussing the experience of photography 50:16 Understanding Photographer's Intentions 56:28 Using questions to improve photography 01:00:41 Breaking from Traditional Photography 01:09:34 Finding inspiration outside landscape photography 01:13:11 Questions for photography reflection
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  The Freedom of Limitations in Photography | Mark Scheffer 07.09.2026 1ч 6мин

  In episode 490 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne talks with guest Mark Scheffer, a fine art photographer who transitioned from a thirty-year career in hospital operating rooms to focusing full-time on landscape photography. The discussion centers on the concept that self-imposed limitations, whether in gear, subject matter, or technique, can actually foster greater creativity and lead to a more sustainable and rewarding practice. Mark Scheffer shares his journey from chasing iconic landscapes around the globe to finding depth, freedom, and satisfaction by photographing local scenes, often in black and white infrared, and deliberately working with minimal equipment. Both speakers challenge the industry’s fixation on travel and gear, instead advocating for daily photographic practice, immersion in one’s surroundings, and the benefits of consistency over constant one-upmanship. The episode also addresses the pitfalls of social media-driven expectations and external validation, emphasizing the value of originality, personal growth, and authentic creative expression over conformity or chasing trends. Links and Resources: Muench Workshops Giveaway Mark Scheffer Support the show on Patreon Matt Payne's Book, The Colorado Way Michael Kenna G.B. Smith Natural Landscape Photography Awards Enrico Fossati's Blog Post Paul Zizka's The Canadian Rockies Rediscovered
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  The Chaos and the Calm in Photography | Mali Davies 31.08.2026 1ч 5мин

  Episode 489 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen features Mali Davies, a photographer, podcaster, and educator from Northwest England, newly transitioned from a decades-long graphic design career to full-time photography. Host Matt Payne and Mali Davies explore the motivations behind leaving the corporate world, with Mali Davies explaining how his daughter’s autism and mental health journey became a catalyst for reevaluating his priorities and embracing a more present, flexible lifestyle. The discussion moves beyond technical aspects, addressing how personal experience, mood, and family relationships deeply inform artistic work, and highlighting the transformative power of nature, especially woodlands, in Mali Davies's creative process. They also discuss the importance of mindset and practice over rigid compositional rules, emphasizing that enthusiasm, attitude, and personal connection drive photographic growth more than gear or formula. Mali Davies shares how his workshops and mentoring programs focus on empowering photographers to build self-belief and find their own voice, often providing what participants truly need rather than what they assume. The episode concludes with a thoughtful exchange about community, vulnerability, and the lifelong process of learning and creative development.Links and Resources: Muench Workshops Giveaway Mali Davies Photography Let's Create Let's Talk Podcast Mali Davies YouTube Channel Support Mali Davies on Patreon Brendan van Son Beth Moon Christina Wilson Photography Mark Adams Support the show on Patreon
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  The Soft Skills of Creative Longevity | Ajani Charles 24.08.2026 1ч 16мин

  In episode 488 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne interviews Ajani Charles, a Toronto-based visual strategist, photographer, and Canon Canada ambassador, about sustaining a major creative project over nearly two decades. The conversation centers on Project TDOT, Ajani Charles' long-term documentary effort capturing Toronto’s hip hop culture, which started as an unfunded black-and-white street photography project and has grown into public art exhibitions, a nonprofit, a coffee table book, and a touchscreen archival database. Ajani Charles shares lessons from enduring years of rejection, discusses the importance of curiosity, patience, and playing the long game, and emphasizes how his project’s longevity is rooted in genuine reverence for the subject. The episode dives into the psychological and emotional skills that fuel creative longevity—such as emotional regulation, mindfulness, and self-awareness—alongside technical and business skills. Ajani Charles also discusses handling criticism, building trust within a community for authentic documentation, and the evolution of his work, including future plans in Tokyo and Copenhagen. The episode underscores that internal development, resilience, and a passion for the work itself are as crucial as external validation or financial reward. Links and Resources: Ajani Charles Muench Workshops Giveaway Project T-Dot Canon Canada Canon Ignite Program Operation Prefrontal Cortex Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport Claude Watson Arts Program Jamel Shabazz Ernie Paniccioli Guy Tal's Article The Colorado Way by Matt Payne Support the show on Patreon
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  What Photography Can Still Do | Marc Asnin 17.08.2026 1ч 6мин

  In episode 487 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne interviews acclaimed documentary photographer Mark Asnin, whose deeply personal and collaborative approach has shaped seminal works such as his thirty-year project "Uncle Charlie" and the curated volume "Final Words", which presents the last statements of executed inmates alongside their mugshots. Mark Asnin discusses his Brooklyn upbringing surrounded by master storytellers, how personal history influences his long-term commitment to subjects, and his belief in the power of photography as both documentation and public memory. They explore the evolution of a photographer’s confidence, the ethical responsibilities of witnessing, and the ongoing tension between making art and documenting truth. The conversation also delves into "Act One: A Century in the Making," a 703-page collaborative book bringing together over a hundred photographers, scholars, and journalists to tell the story of the 21st century through images and essays. Throughout, the episode grapples with photography’s role in an age of image overload, artificial intelligence, and public mistrust, underscoring the importance of context, collaboration, and authenticity in photographic storytelling.Links: Mark Asnin Muench Workshops Giveaway Order Act One: A Century in the Making Support the show on Patreon Uncle Charlie by Marc Asnin Final Words by Marc Asnin Kensington Blues by Jeffrey Stockbridge Andrew Moore The Lake Project by David Maisel Gideon Mendel Daniel Beltrá Eugene Richards
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  Telling Your Story with the Monochrome Collective Community | Darren Pellegrino 10.08.2026 1ч 13мин

  Episode 486 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen features Darren Pellegrino, a Boston photographer known for headshots and his new project, the Monochrome Collective. Darren Pellegrino discusses the challenge of balancing profitable commercial work with personally meaningful projects, sharing how building a community around black and white photography has provided fresh creative energy. They address industry shifts, including the rise of AI headshots and finding purpose beyond financial success. The episode also covers Darren Pellegrino's book "The Monochrome Triangle," which emphasizes light, composition, and story as foundations for compelling black and white images. The conversation is honest about career longevity, creative fulfillment, and what it takes to build something sustainable in today’s changing photography world.Resources and Links Discussed Muench Workshops Giveaway Darren Pellegrino Monochrome Collective The Monochrome Triangle Book (use code Triangle30 for 30% off the eBook) Foto App The Colorado Way book Support the show on Patreon LensWork Natural Landscape Photography Awards
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  Infrared Travel Photography | Nevada Wier 03.08.2026 1ч 23мин

  Episode 485 features photographer Nevada Wier, an expert in infrared (IR) photography. We discuss the technical and creative aspects of shooting in IR, including camera and lens choices, scene selection, and the heavy post-processing required, especially for vibrant 590nm images. Nevada shares how her adventurous background and transition from black-and-white to color inspired her IR work and emphasizes the importance of understanding both light and color for compelling images. The episode also touches on balancing creative passion with professional demands and why IR photography can rejuvenate artistic vision for those feeling stagnant.Resources and Links Mentioned: Muench Workshops Giveaway Primer on Infrared Photography Nevada Wier Support the show on Patreon Santa Fe Workshops Obscura Gallery (Santa Fe) Kolari Vision (infrared filters and conversions) Infrared Diffraction Calculator George Nobechi Eddie Soloway Adobe DNG Profile Editor Asian Travel Photography Tropes – Bonus Episode (Patreon)
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  The Ansel Adams of Yellowstone | Tom Murphy 27.07.2026 1ч

  Episode 484 features legendary Yellowstone photographer Tom Murphy. We explore how Murphy’s ranching and anthropology background shapes his unique style and storytelling. Murphy shares advice on pursuing personal passion, observing nature deeply, and building a body of meaningful work. He emphasizes photographing wildlife in context, not just what an animal is, but who it is, and discusses the evolution of photographic technology, staying creatively engaged, and tips for strong composition. Murphy also stresses the value of giving back through conservation-focused photography and urges photographers to immerse themselves in places they love. Resources: Muench Workshops Giveaway Support the show on Patreon Tom Murphy Tom Murphy's Books Muench Workshops Buffalo Bill Center of the West Postage Stamp News
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  Artful Aerial Photography & Mining Truth | Scott McCook 20.07.2026 36мин

  In episode 483 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down in person with aerial photographer Scott McCook at the end of a photography tour through Western Australia. Known for his abstract aerial images capturing both the region’s dramatic coastlines and its vast mining infrastructure, Scott McCook discusses his journey to aerial photography, balancing a career in construction, and the unique, often unseen perspectives offered from above. The conversation explores the dichotomy between the beauty and environmental toll of Western Australia’s mining operations, including the vibrant yet toxic tailing ponds, and the impact this industry has on Aboriginal communities. Scott McCook shares how his work straddles the line between art and documentary, aiming to spark curiosity and dialogue rather than delivering pointed messages.Links and Resources: Muench Workshops Giveaway Scott McCook's Website Scott on Instagram Muench Workshops Rio Tinto's Destruction of Juukan Gorge Tom Putt (photographer recommended) Support the show on Patreon
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  Create Photographs Fearlessly | Rick Bebbington 13.07.2026 1ч 7мин

  Episode 482 features Rick Bebbington, a UK-based photographer, discussing how personal growth and life experiences deeply impact creative work. The conversation focused on overcoming common blocks like perfectionism and imposter syndrome by letting go of expectations, shifting away from external comparisons, and embracing photography as a fulfilling, evolving process, rather than a pursuit of perfection or gear. A key theme that emerged was the importance of introspection and being open to new subjects, with practical advice on how photographers can get unstuck and find renewed creative purpose. Resources and Links: Muench Workshops Giveaway Rick Bebbington The Colorado Way book Support the show on Patreon Muench Workshops Start With Why by Simon Sinek Ikigai (concept overview) Rachel Bixby Dani Connor Bonus Episode on the Magic Sweater
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  Making Extraordinary Photographs in Ordinary Places | Garrett Hess 06.07.2026 1ч 10мин

  On this episode (481) of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Garrett Hess, a colorblind photographer from Erie, Pennsylvania, talks with Matt Payne about building a creative practice centered around photographing the Great Lakes region, an area often overlooked by landscape photographers. They discuss how embracing local landscapes, weather extremes, and personal limitations like color vision deficiency can foster growth, uniqueness, and deeper connections to subject matter. Garrett Hess shares strategies for keeping local photography exciting, including studying microclimates, developing personal projects, and building a creative network. The conversation touches on the challenges of curating work for exhibitions, the emotional journey of making art close to home, and reframing one's relationship with the often-uninspiring places they live. Links Mentioned This Week: Muench Workshops Giveaway Garrett Hess Support the show on Patreon NLPA The Colorado Way book Muench Workshops Jonathan Buford Kyle McDougall YouTube Channel Tobias Yoder Photography Joshua Wallace Photography
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  The Journey of the Emerging Professional Photographer | Ben Maze & Murray Livingston 29.06.2026 1ч 20мин

  In episode 480 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne is joined by photographers Ben Maze and Murray Livingston, who share their journeys in landscape photography, growing up during the rise of social media and how it has influenced their artistic development for better and worse. The discussion covers their approach to intentional image-making, the importance of seeking inspiration beyond Instagram and learning from photographic history, and how they balance the pressure to produce with the creative rewards of slowing down. They explore the realities of building sustainable careers through education and workshops, especially running workshops in Scotland together, and reflect on the challenges and benefits of being younger professionals in the field. Throughout, they emphasize maintaining authenticity amidst commercial and algorithmic pressures, advocating for deep engagement with nature and diverse artistic influences over chasing trends for quick attention. Links and Resources Mentioned: Ben Maze & Murray Livingston Muench Workshops Giveaway Support the show on Patreon The Colorado Way (Matt Payne's Book) Peter Dombrovskis, Joe Cornish, Clark Little, Ray Collins, William Neill, Alex Noriega, Ken Duncan, Heesoo Chung, Andrea Celli, Andrea Pozzi, Luis Afonso Looking at Photographs by John Szarkowski Photography in Print by Vicki Goldberg Photographers on Photography by Nathan Lyons NLPA (Natural Landscape Photography Awards) Discord Server for Landscape Photographers
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  Exploring the World of Photography Neuroarts | Nichole Vild 22.06.2026 51мин

  In episode 479 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," Matt Payne talks with photographer and army veteran Nichole Vild about her unique journey from a 20-year military career to building a new life rooted in creativity and neuroscience. Nichole shares how her experiences moving around the world shaped her perspective, the role photography played in her transition out of the military, and her passion for the emerging field of neuroarts: the study of how creative and aesthetic experiences change the brain and enhance well-being. She discusses her new venture, Roaming Wild Adventures, which uses custom photo prompt cards and guided journals to strengthen curiosity, creativity, and emotional resilience (use code FSTOP79 - good June 22 -July 7). The conversation highlights the importance of getting outside, slowing down, and practicing mindful creativity as a strategy for navigating life’s transitions and building stronger neural connections. Order Matt Payne's Book, The Colorado Way Support the show on Patreon Muench Workshops Neuroarts Blueprint Sally Mann Rannveig Björk Kerry-Ann Lecky Hepburn The Nature Fix by Florence Williams Tim Floyd's book
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  Follow Your Photography Passion to Wild Heights | Jason Bradley 15.06.2026 1ч

  In episode 478 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," Matt Payne welcomes back Jason Bradley, publisher and content director of Wild Eye Magazine, to explore the intersection of passion, creativity, and photography publishing. Jason Bradley shares his journey from underwater photography to founding Wild Eye, gives insight into the evolving landscape of nature photography magazines, and stresses the importance of printing images for creative growth. The conversation covers how photographic history and community influence his work, tips for getting published, why writing matters, and the differences between fine art and "postcard" photography. There's also discussion about the revitalization of analog processes, building a photography community, and special giveaways for listeners. Links and Resources Mentioned This Week Jason Bradley / Bradley Photographic Lab Wild Eye Magazine Muench Workshops John Shaw Book Ansel Adams: A Biography by Mary Street Alinder John Sexton Ted Orland Vital Impacts (Amy Vitale's foundation) Patterns by Jon McCormick Bob Talbot Crush It by Gary Vaynerchuk Support the show on Patreon Support Matt Payne's Book Wild Eye Magazine promo code "FSTOP": wildeyemagazine.com (use code at checkout) Bradley Photographic Print Lab promo code "FSTOP": bradleyprintandphoto.com (mention code at checkout)
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  Balancing Life, Art, and Social Media as a Photographer | Grant Swinbourne 08.06.2026 1ч 1мин

  In episode 477 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne welcomes landscape photographer and podcast host Grant Swinbourne for an insightful conversation about Grant's journey from a childhood fascination with photography to becoming more intentional and artistic in his work, especially after retirement. Grant shares how life events, including a lengthy IT career, family priorities, and the impact of COVID lockdowns, have shaped his practice and outlook, leading him to slow down and focus on the creative process rather than volume. The discussion covers the evolving role of photography in the art world, challenges with social media and image theft, the balance between personal satisfaction and business, and the lessons learned through podcasting. Both speakers reflect on how engaging with a diverse community of photographers has enriched their perspectives and creativity, offering listeners plenty to contemplate about their own approach to photography.Links and Resources: Grant Swinbourne Landscape Photography World Podcast Muench Workshops Support the show on Patreon Andy Vukasev Helen Cyr
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  The Man on a Photographic Mission to Save the Badger | Ian Wood 01.06.2026 43мин

  In episode 476 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne interviews wildlife photographer and conservationist Ian Wood, delving into his impactful work raising awareness for orangutans and badgers. Ian Wood shares the story behind his award-winning urban badger photograph, which sparked renewed public attention and activism regarding the controversial UK badger cull, ultimately contributing to policy change. He discusses his passion for conservation-driven photography, from rewilding land in Dorset to fundraising for the Orangutan Foundation UK, and offers practical wisdom about making a difference, the importance of passion, and the responsibilities photographers have when their work intersects with public opinion and policy. Throughout, Ian Wood highlights hopeful conservation stories and encourages photographers to follow their passion, build relationships, and trust in their ability to drive change.Links and Resources: Ian Wood Ian Wood's Instagram Ian's winning image on Wildlife Photographer of the Year Muench Workshops Support the show on Patreon Orangutan Foundation UK Badger Trust Protect the Wild Chris Packham Save Me Trust (Brian May) Gorilla Doctors Jane Goodall Institute Wildlife Photographer of the Year Ross Hoddinott (Recommended Photographer)
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  Photographing the Magic of Sápmi | Hanneke Van Camp 25.05.2026 56мин

  In episode 475 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne interviews Belgian photographer Hanneke Van Camp, whose work is rooted in her deep love for nature and her background in biology and science communication. Hanneke Van Camp shares the motivations behind her award-winning “Sápmi Living Landscapes” project, which explores the land and culture of Northern Scandinavia and the indigenous Sami people, as well as her experiences living seasonally in the Arctic for most of the year. The conversation delves into topics like the importance of presence over production in photography, the unique connection between environment and culture in the far north, practical ways photographers can infuse storytelling and meaning into their work, and how a values-driven approach—such as sustainability and giving back—can shape your creative life. They also discuss the process and challenges of turning a long-term project into a book, the impact of print vs. digital, and the influence of other photographers and storytellers on her journey.Links and Resources: Hanneke Van Camp Natural Landscape Photography Awards (NLPA) Order the Sápmi Book by Hanneke Van Camp Muench Workshops Vital Impacts (Amy Vitale's organization) Mother Magazine (Melissa Schäfer) Kevin Morgans – Prince of Puffins Feli Hansen (referenced project "Guilty Trashures") Marcus Westberg Freedom to Roam (Allemansrätten) Rewilding Europe Rewilding Sweden Matt's Arborglyphs Project Bonus Episode here on Patreon
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  Photographing Japan's Spiritual Landscapes | Ulana Switucha 18.05.2026 54мин

  In episode 474 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne chats with photographer Ulana Switucha about her deeply intentional, minimalist landscape photography and her decade-long project photographing Torii gates across Japan’s spiritual and geographic landscapes. Ulana Switucha shares how living in Asia and practicing long exposure photography has shaped her contemplative approach, blending meditation, yoga philosophy, and presence in nature. The episode covers her photographic journey from childhood, her involvement in documentary street photography projects, the creative process behind her new book, and the technical and emotional challenges of sequencing and publishing a cohesive body of work. Listeners get tips on curating projects, insight into Japan’s geography and spiritual traditions, and recommendations for other inspiring photographers to follow. Links and Resources: Ulana Switucha Ulana Switucha’s Book, Torii Muench Workshops Support the show on Patreon Michael Kenna Photography Olivier Robert Photography Kino Seido Yukari Chikura Gui Christ Mark Kogel Austin Bell Matt Payne's Book, The Colorado Way
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  The Art of Photographing Aeroglyphs | Reuben Wu 11.05.2026 1ч 3мин

  In episode 473 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with acclaimed visual artist Reuben Wu, discussing Wu’s creative journey from industrial designer and musician to innovative landscape photographer. Wu shares how his interdisciplinary background shaped his approach, emphasizing craft, experimentation, and the joy of physically engaging with his subjects. They dive into Wu’s signature drone lighting techniques and “aeroglyphs”—light gestures made in landscapes—and the happy accidents that inspired them. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity, authorship, ethical boundaries, and the challenge of balancing originality with influence. Wu also gives practical insights into printmaking, managing editions, collector relationships, and marketing, stressing the value of intentionality and connection over trends. The episode is rich with actionable advice for artists seeking to define their own vision while maintaining creative integrity. Links and Resources: Reuben Wu on Instagram Natural Landscape Photography Awards Muench Workshops Support the show on Patreon Ladytron Tycho Latitude National Geographic Adobe Max Eddie Adams Workshop Dan Winters Acacia Johnson Elliot Ross
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  How Over-Tourism is Quietly Destroying Japan | Shaun Keenan 04.05.2026 1ч 3мин

  In episode 472 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne chats with Shaun Keenan, an American photographer living in Hokkaido, Japan. They dive deep into the issue of over tourism, especially its impact on beloved photo locations in Japan and worldwide, and discuss the ethical dilemmas photographers face when sharing these places. Shaun Keenan shares his personal journey from theater and filmmaking to photography, touches on the importance of respecting local cultures, and offers his thoughts on creative motivation, community, and finding meaning in photography beyond metrics or monetization. Throughout, both speakers emphasize the value of thoughtful, respectful engagement with the land, and the importance of leading with personal values rather than simply chasing viral fame or financial gain. The episode is rich with wisdom for anyone interested in sustainable creativity and responsible travel photography. Links and Resources: Shaun Keenan Shaun Keenan on YouTube Shaun’s Hokkaido Video Muench Workshops Natural Landscape Photography Awards Nature First Simon Booth Pete Leong Eiji Ohashi Michael Yamashita Support the show on Patreon