F-Stop Collaborate and Listen - A Photography Podcast

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 safari ignited her love for wildlife photography, the power of community, and how the challenges of COVID and personal loss led her to reinvent her professional life. She outlines lessons learned from transitioning to a print business, navigating website traffic and social media hurdles, and the tension between portfolio growth and marketing efforts.

They dive...

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 personal and technical motivations behind Lumethic, a tool that links raw files to final images to verify authenticity.

They explore why image verification is increasingly important, from journalism and politics to the world of photography competitions. The discussion covers how raw files act as photographic "alibis," how AI and...

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, predominantly with Velvia 50 film. He recounts his roots as a photographer and teacher, the influence of a place-based life and field companions outside photography, and formative years assisting Australian legend Ken Duncan.

The conversation explores technical challenges and artistic rewards of panoramic film, comparing Noblex and XPan systems, composition strategies, and problems unique to swing-lens...

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 insights from a decade photographing Edinburgh and surrounding landscapes, stressing the value of knowing your local terrain intimately in all weather conditions and avoiding creative frustration by responding to what draws your attention rather than chasing preconceived ideas. The discussion covers transitioning from rigid visualization to improvisational shooting, using detail and storytelling to build a robust portfolio, an...

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 of insight from documenting and collaborating with photographers, artists, and scientists in extreme environments like Antarctica, the Atacama Desert, and the Arctic.

Fox describes the neurologically rich processes behind how we perceive new landscapes, and how our evolved cognitive patterns both serve and limit us. He introduces the concept of “cultural pr...

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. Overton reveals her origin story—starting with a film SLR and a curiosity about multiple exposures—before delving into the neuroscience of perception, how our brains filter visual information for survival, and why breaking from this default allows for greater artistic vision.

Together, they unpack actionable strategies for cultivating creativity, such as seeking details rather than subjects, trainin...

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 Park to world-renowned wildlife destinations, unpacking how years of experience and a background in design shaped his artistic vision (00:10). The episode runs deep into practical and philosophical territory: minimalism in composition, the benefits of returning to the same locations, and developing vision through persistence, not just natural talent (06:03; 11:19).

The conversation tackles the ethical line in...

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 five years assisting across genres, then building a career by pivoting as opportunities changed, including ongoing cityscape images from his Queens window. He contrasts mindsets between commercial photography (client-driven deliverables), directing (big-picture storytelling for the edit), and fine art (freedom without external endpoints). McDermott explains his Backline fine art series, inspired backstage at a Red Hot Chili Peppers show, photographing road-worn in...

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...

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...

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 cr...

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 pr...

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 te...

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...

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.

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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.

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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 A...

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.

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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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 f...

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.

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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 int...

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...

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 photography with family life, shifting his focus from big bucket-list locations to meaningful local work due to necessity. The project becomes deeply personal after the loss of John Welch's mother, intertwining the life cycle of loons with his process of grieving, healing, and reflection. They also touch on the power of local projects, the importance of curiosity...

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 Doherty shares the origins of the project, how photographing Johnny shaped his skills and perspective as an artist, and the emotional journey of assembling the book after Johnny’s passing. The conversation also delves into topics of photographic legacy, the value of archiving and shaping one’s work, the nature of storytelling in photography, and the...

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 Yellowstone. We dive deep into what makes the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem unique, from dramatic seasonal changes and resilient wildlife adaptations to the vital role of humans in conservation stories. Kathy Lichtendahl explains the intricate balance of the park's biodiversity, the constantly evolving geothermal features, and the controversial reintroduction of wolves. She also offers practical advice for ethical...

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, navigating the pressures of social media, and the value of passion over likes or hype. They also discuss photography competitions, editing philosophies, and why physical fitness and personal experience can help photographers stand out. Whether you’re chasing epic conditions or making the most of bad weather, this episode delivers honest advice and inspiration for photographers invested in au...

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 using photography as a way to have more meaningful experiences outdoors. David Shaw shares insights from his career transition, his philosophy on balancing artistic creativity with commercial viability, and his experiences guiding wilderness and photo tours. The conversation highlights the value of pursuing personal projects, staying open to experimentation, and finding joy in the process—not just the en...

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 diverse background in resource management, scuba diving, and music, and the joy of letting curiosity—and not the pursuit of perfect images—drive her creative process. Together, they discuss the importance of observation, solitude, learning through failure, and embracing unpredictability, especially when photographing wildlife and landscapes. The conversation is an inspiring reflection on finding fulfillment in t...

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 (ICM), emphasizing it as a tool for emotional expression rather than a mere gimmick. The discussion covers how his background as a conductor and musician deeply shapes his visual work, the importance of blending art forms, and the challenges of conveying both beauty and urgency in environmental storytelling. There’s practical insight into his photographic technique, encouragement to...

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 outdoor adventures in his youth, through a corporate hiatus, and back into the world of photography—this time focusing on making meaningful images in non-iconic locations like Ohio's Hocking Hills. They dig into topics such as the importance of practicing locally, navigating imposter syndrome within a talented photography community, the technical and emotional aspects of teaching workshops, and the challenges of ba...

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, discusses how her scientific background intersects with her artistry and how letting go of expectations—both internal and external—has allowed her creativity to flourish. The conversation delves into the pressures of social media, the importance of personal growth over style conformity, the pitfalls and benefits of seeking validation, finding purpose in photography (from conservation to simply brin...

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 centered around his hometown of Aiken, South Carolina. The conversation dives into the value of photographing locally—both for developing creative consistency and for lowering the stakes so you can experiment, learn from mistakes, and hone your skills daily. Patrick Krohn discusses the parallels between sales tenacity and artistic growth, emphasizes the importance of community connections, and...

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 on the meditative aspects of being in nature and how it influences his creative process. He encourages aspiring photographers to stay true to their unique vision while drawing inspiration from others. As he prepares to launch his website, Kavin contemplates how to present his work authentically, moving away from conventional styles. The discussion concludes with recommendations for fellow...

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 creativity and the balance between personal expression and audience expectations. Adrian also delves into the nuances of black and white photography, the power of local photography, and the lessons learned during the pandemic lockdown.

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