F-Stop Collaborate and Listen - A Photography Podcast
by Matt Payne
This photography podcast takes you well beyond camera gear each week with weekly interviews and panel discussions with professional photographers, industry insiders, enthusiasts, and hobbyists alike. Our candid but laid-back conversations deeply explore the craft of photography and psychological drivers relating to creativity, motivation, inspiration, and workflow. We also discuss social media, photography business practices, marketing, sales, and hot topics impacting photographers from all genres, with a particular focus on landscape, nature, and wildlife photography. The show is hosted by Matt Payne, a professional full-time nature photographer and the co-founder of the internationally renowned photography competition, the Natural Landscape Photography Awards. Matt leverages skills he gained in pursuit of his Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology to dig deeply into the hearts and minds of his passionate guests, revealing secrets and inspiration in every episode.
Episodes
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Reinventing Yourself Through Photography | Jules Oldroyd
For episode 499 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with Jules Oldroyd, a London-based wildlife photographer who pivoted from a 35-year television career—including Channel 4 and National Geographic—to full-time photography in her mid-50s. Jules Oldroyd describes how her first...
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How to Tell If a Photo Is AI Generated | Franz Xaver Bayerl
For episode 498 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with Franz Xaver Bayerl, founder of Lumethic, to dive deep into the question: How can you tell if a photograph is AI-generated? Drawing from his roots in software engineering and landscape photography, Bayerl lays out the...
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Panoramic Film Photography | John Shephard
For episode 497 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne welcomes panoramic film photographer John Shephard of Woodinville, Washington. Over a thirty-year journey, John Shephard has photographed the breadth of his home state using the Noblex swing lens and Hasselblad XPan II…
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What Scotland Teaches You About Photography | Adam Bulley
For episode 496 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne welcomes Scotland-based landscape photographer Adam Bulley for a conversation about embracing presence in the field, the power of local exploration, and how Scotland’s moody light influences creative process. Adam Bulley shares...
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How Art and Science Extend Human Perception | William Fox
For episode 495 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne welcomes Bill Fox, poet, author of 16 nonfiction books, and founder of the Institute for Art and Environment at the Nevada Museum of Art. Bill Fox, whose wide-ranging work explores how humans transform space into place, shares decades…
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How to See What Your Brain Is Hiding From You | Roxanne Bouché Overton
For episode 494 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with Roxanne Bouché Overton, a Pacific Northwest–based photographer known for her imaginative approach to creativity through intentional camera movement (ICM), multiple exposures, and unconventional ways of seeing.…
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What Makes an Award Winning Wildlife Photograph | David Lloyd
For episode 493 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Host Matt Payne sits down with David Lloyd, a New Zealand-born wildlife photographer acclaimed for his black and white minimalism and unwavering commitment to ethical, unmanipulated imagery. David Lloyd shares his journey from London’s Richmond…
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Balancing Commercial Photography and Fine Art | Scott McDermott
For episode 492 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Host Matt Payne welcomes photographer/director Scott McDermott, a New York City–based professional with 25+ years spanning sports, fitness, celebrity portraiture, commercial campaigns, directing, and fine art. McDermott describes learning through...
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Your Special Sauce: How to Find Your Unique Photographic Voice | Meredith Fontana
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...
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The Freedom of Limitations in Photography | Mark Scheffer
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...
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The Chaos and the Calm in Photography | Mali Davies
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...
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The Soft Skills of Creative Longevity | Ajani Charles
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...
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What Photography Can Still Do | Marc Asnin
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...
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Telling Your Story with the Monochrome Collective Community | Darren Pellegrino
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...
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Infrared Travel Photography | Nevada Wier
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…
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The Ansel Adams of Yellowstone | Tom Murphy
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...
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Artful Aerial Photography & Mining Truth | Scott McCook
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...
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Create Photographs Fearlessly | Rick Bebbington
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...
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Making Extraordinary Photographs in Ordinary Places | Garrett Hess
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...
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The Journey of the Emerging Professional Photographer | Ben Maze & Murray Livingston
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...
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Exploring the World of Photography Neuroarts | Nichole Vild
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…
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Follow Your Photography Passion to Wild Heights | Jason Bradley
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...
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Balancing Life, Art, and Social Media as a Photographer | Grant Swinbourne
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...
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The Man on a Photographic Mission to Save the Badger | Ian Wood
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...
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Photographing the Magic of Sápmi | Hanneke Van Camp
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…
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Photographing Japan's Spiritual Landscapes | Ulana Switucha
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…
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The Art of Photographing Aeroglyphs | Reuben Wu
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,...
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How Over-Tourism is Quietly Destroying Japan | Shaun Keenan
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...
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What Photographing Loons Taught Me About Parenting and Loss | John Welch
In episode 471 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," Matt Payne sits down with New Hampshire landscape and wildlife photographer John Welch to discuss his emotionally charged long-term project, "Healing from Loss: A Season with Loons." The conversation follows John Welch's journey of integrating...
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How my Brother with Down Syndrome Shaped my Photography Journey | Joe Doherty
In episode 470 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with photographer Joe Doherty to discuss his deeply personal new book, "The Johnny Chronicles," which documents his brother Johnny's life with Down syndrome through decades of photographs and playful, touching stories. Joe...
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Photographing Yellowstone in Winter | Kathy Lichtendahl
In episode 469 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, which was recorded in-person and is audio-only, I sit down with Kathy Lichtendahl, a certified Wyoming naturalist and conservation storyteller (and amazing photographer). We recorded this right after wrapping up our winter photography workshop in...
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Processing Landscape Photographs with Integrity | Greg Boratyn
In episode 468 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne chats with landscape photographer Greg Boratyn about the importance of keeping post-processing subtle to honor the authenticity of a scene. The conversation digs into the challenges and rewards of photographing iconic locations…
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Balancing Passion and Profit in Photography | David Shaw
In episode 467 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne interviews David Shaw, a Colorado-based photographer with a background in wildlife biology. They explore how David Shaw’s scientific training shapes his photographic approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s subject and...
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Embracing Adventure in Photography | Hilary Bralove
In episode 466 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with Hilary Bralove, a Colorado-based photographer, about the deep personal value of experiencing nature through photography. Hilary Bralove shares her journey from city life to the wild outdoors, the lessons learned from a...
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Capturing Emotion with ICM: A Photographer's Symphony | Erik Malm
In episode 465 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with Swedish photographer and musician Erik Malm for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of photography, music, and lived experience. Erik Malm discusses his unique approach to intentional camera movement...
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How to Build a Thriving Photography Ecosystem | Jeffrey Tadlock
In episode 464 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with Ohio-based landscape photographer Jeffrey Tadlock for a thoughtful conversation about building a creative and sustainable photography ecosystem. The discussion explores Jeffrey Tadlock's journey from documenting…
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Navigating External Validation in Photography | Colleen Parker
In episode 463 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne sits down with amateur photographer Colleen Parker for an open, insightful chat about staying inspired, steering clear of creative ruts, and enjoying a personal and meaningful photographic journey. Colleen Parker, a retired radiologist,...
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Building a Meaningful Local Photography Practice | Patrick Krohn
In episode 462 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne sits down with Patrick Krohn, winner of the Natural Landscape Photography Awards’ "In Your Backyard" special award. Patrick Krohn shares his journey from photojournalism and sales into a deeply rooted local photography practice...
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The Art of Noticing: A Journey Through Abstract Photography | Kavin Chawla
In episode 461, Kavin Chawla shares his journey as an abstract photographer, discussing how his upbringing in Thailand and experiences in nature have shaped his artistic vision. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity, playfulness, and embracing imperfection in photography. Kavin also reflects…
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Setting Creative Limitations in Photography | Adrian Vila
In episode 460, Adrian Vila (AOWS) shares his journey from a computer engineer to a full-time photographer, discussing the importance of daily practice, finding beauty in local spaces, and the creative process behind making images. He emphasizes the significance of limitations in fostering...
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AI, Adobe & The Quest for Truth in Creativity | Stephen Nielsen
In episode 459 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne sits down with Adobe’s Senior Product Manager for Photoshop, Stephen Nielsen, to dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI in photography. They discuss the tension and anxiety many photographers feel about AI-generated images...
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Photographing the Spirit of Endangered Landscapes | Joy Kachina
In episode 458 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne interviews wilderness photographer Joy Kachina, who recently won the Natural Landscape Photography Awards for her evocative work documenting Tasmania’s endangered cider gums. Joy Kachina shares her deep love and spiritual…
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Gatekeeping in Photography | Jason Hatfield
Warning: We say some cuss words. In episode 457 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne sits down with fellow Colorado-based photographer Jason Hatfield for a candid discussion on the intersection of landscape photography, endurance, ethics, and the controversial topic of gatekeeping...
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Voices from Our Patreon Photography Community
In episode 456 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen is a heartfelt tribute to the podcast's Patreon community, showcasing the collective creativity and passion that fuels the show. Rather than focusing on technical details or individual stories, Matt Payne honors the spirit of collaboration, sharing…
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Photographing Homelessness with Humanity | Mark Schumann
In episode 455 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne sits down with photographer Mark Schumann to discuss his powerful multiyear documentary project capturing homelessness across America. Mark Schumann shares his journey photographing and interviewing hundreds of individuals...
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Photographing Washington's Highest 100 Mountains | Scott Kranz
In episode 454 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne sits down with mountain photographer Scott Kranz to explore Scott’s dramatic shift from a legal career to full-time outdoor photography in the Cascades. They dive into Scott’s deep connection with Washington’s mountains, especially the...
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Photographing in JPG Mode Only | Tom Dauben
In episode 453 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," UK photographer Tom Dauben joins host Matt Payne to discuss his unique approach to landscape photography: creating completely unedited, in-camera images. Tom Dauben shares how he became disillusioned with heavily manipulated photos and found...
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The Extraordinary World of Insect Macro Photography | Dara Ojo
In episode 452 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with macro photographer Dara Ojo to explore the fascinating and often overlooked world of insects and arthropods. Dara Ojo shares how macro photography transformed his perception of these tiny creatures, inspiring empathy...
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Photographing the New Hampshire 48: A Tale of Adventure and Art | Mike Weinhold
In episode 451 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with New England-based photographer and hiker Mike Weinhold about balancing the goals of list hiking with the creative process of nature photography. Mike shares his journey from a casual hiker to completing the New Hampshire…
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Making Polaroid Emulsion Lifts to Combat PTSD | Justin Tedford
In episode 450 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with Justin Tedford, a combat veteran and photographer, about his unique approach to using photography as a healing tool to combat PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Justin shares his journey from small-town Iowa to working for…
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About this show
This photography podcast takes you well beyond camera gear each week with weekly interviews and panel discussions with professional photographers, industry insiders, enthusiasts, and hobbyists alike. Our candid but laid-back conversations deeply explore the craft of photography and psychological drivers relating to creativity, motivation, inspiration, and workflow. We also discuss social media, photography business practices, marketing, sales, and hot topics impacting photographers from all genres, with a particular focus on landscape, nature, and wildlife photography. The show is hosted by Matt Payne, a professional full-time nature photographer and the co-founder of the internationally renowned photography competition, the Natural Landscape Photography Awards. Matt leverages skills he gained in pursuit of his Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology to dig deeply into the hearts and minds of his passionate guests, revealing secrets and inspiration in every episode.
Hosted by
Matt Payne