F-Stop Collaborate and Listen - A Photography Podcast

In this episode 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 c...

In this episode 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 ...

In this episode 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 h...

In this episode 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 a...

In this episode 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 philosop...

In this episode 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 ligh...

In this episode 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 ...

In this episode 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 beco...

In this episode 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 jo...

In this episode 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 ...

In this episode 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 philos...

In this episode 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 transiti...

In this episode 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 i...

In this episode 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...

In this episode 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 meaning...

In this episode 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&...

In this episode 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 ...

In this engaging conversation, 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 photographe...

In this conversation, 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 p...