F-Stop Collaborate and Listen - A Photography Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Creativity, Resilience, and Photography | Guido van de Water May 26, 2025

Show notes

In episode 423 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne speaks with Guido van de Water, a Dutch landscape photographer and YouTuber. Guido shares his transformative journey from a career in the automotive industry to becoming a full-time content creator after being diagnosed with a severe medical condition. The conversation delves into how photography became a means of healing and finding purpose for Guido, emphasizing resilience and creativity. He discusses his approach of not pre-planning images and his focus on capturing unique visions in mundane landscapes, largely using telephoto lenses. The episode also explores Guido's YouTube channel's growth, which began as a legacy project for his children and has evolved into a supportive community space connecting with others who face similar personal challenges.

Links Mentioned:

Check out Guido's YouTube Channel
Arthelper
Support the podcast on Patreon
Matt's Print Course on Patreon
Photographers Mentioned: Will Goodlet, Christian Irmler

Public Relations and SEO for Photographers | Zoe Hiljemark May 19, 2025

Show notes

In episode 422 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne interviews Zoe Hiljemark, a PR and marketing strategist specializing in helping photographers. They discuss the importance of PR, SEO, and blogging in building a photographer's brand and attracting clients. Zoe emphasizes the changing landscape due to algorithm updates and AI-generated content, and she outlines common PR mistakes photographers make, such as being too broad in their media approaches. She also shares insights on how SEO is crucial for online visibility and talks about how PR can complement blogging to enhance a photography business. Zoe provides actionable steps for photographers to boost their marketing efforts and improve their online presence.

Resources/Links:

Support the Podcast on Patreon
Learn more about Zoe's PR Services
Arthelper
SERanking
Matt's Print Course

Electrifying Lightning and Storm Photography | Greg McCown May 12, 2025

Show notes

In episode 421 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne interviews storm and landscape photographer Greg McCown, delving into his passion for capturing epic desert storms and lightning. Greg, who balances photography with a career in real estate, discusses his meticulous approach to storm chasing, which involves extensive location scouting and using multiple cameras to maximize capture opportunities. The conversation covers Greg's strategies for teaching storm photography workshops, his experiences with weather patterns, and his use of technology like lightning triggers, his expert camera settings for lightning, and he shares personal stories that highlight the excitement and unpredictability of storm photography.

Watch on YouTube

Resources / Links:

Support the Podcast on Patreon
GAIA GPS
Pivotal Weather
Radar Scope: Apple / Android
Satsquatch
FLM Tripods | Matt's Tripod Recommendation - use code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off thru Oct 1, 2025!
Stepping Stone Lightning Trigger
Sony A1-2
Nikon D850
Storm Photo Tours
Recommended Photographers: John Sirlin, Sean Parker, Danilo Faria, Donna Ruthruff, Lori Bailey

The Art of Photography Guidebooks | Greg Vaughn May 05, 2025

Show notes

In episode 420 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne sits down with accomplished photographer Greg Vaughn to discuss his journey in photography, ethics in location sharing, and the nuances of workshop teaching. Vaughn, known for his photography guidebooks on Oregon and Washington, talks about how he chooses locations carefully to preserve sensitive environments. They also explore challenges like maintaining a balance between publicizing beautiful places and preventing environmental degradation. Vaughn shares insights from his career, which spans over four decades, emphasizing the importance of business skills in photography and the value of having a love for teaching when leading workshops.
Check out the episode on YouTube

Resources Mentioned:

Greg's books - Photographing Oregon & Photographing Washington
Muench Workshops - please email me if you're interested in joining me!
NANPA
Arthelper
Support the podcast on Patreon
Photographers Recommended: Dewitt Jones, Laurent Martres, Tom Kirkendall

Greg is a photographer, traveler, writer, and photo educator. During his 40+ years as a full-time pro, Greg has worked in multiple photographic genres, including years as a freelance commercial and editorial assignment photographer in Hawaii. He was the campaign photographer for two of Hawaii’s governors and was the official photographer of the Ironman Triathlon in Kona. Greg is a proud alumnus of the University of Hawaii, earning a degree in Zoology at the advent of the 1970’s Ecology movement. Greg is now based in Eugene, Oregon. He and his wife/partner/soulmate Penelope love living in the Pacific Northwest, travel as much as possible, and especially enjoy exploring Mexico. Greg’s photos have been published by National Geographic, Backpacker, Sierra Club, Audubon, The Nature Conservancy, Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, and many other travel, conservation, and lifestyle magazines and websites.

The Death of Outdoor Photographer Magazine | Jason Bradley Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

In episode 419 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne interviews Jason Bradley, who discusses the collapse of Outdoor Photographer Magazine and the launch of his new publication, Wild Eye Magazine. Wild Eye is designed to fill the void left by Outdoor Photographer but aims to differentiate itself by not including gear reviews or basic how-to articles. Instead, it focuses on high-quality, curated portfolios in landscape, nature, wildlife, and underwater photography with a strong emphasis on conservation. Jason also runs a unique fine art print lab specializing in premium metal prints, which he describes as superior to typical metal prints in color and detail. The episode touches on the importance of community in photography, the challenges of managing multiple projects, and offers advice for photographers looking to get published. Jason also provides a special subscription offer for listeners.

Resources Mentioned on the Podcast

Wild Eye Magazine (use the code FSTOP for a huge discount)
Jason Bradley's Print Services
Jason's Lightroom Live Videos
Arthelper - an awesome AI tool for artists
Support the podcast on Patreon
Recommended Photographers: Joe Platco, Bob Talbot, Jon McCormack

The Art and Business of Elopement Photography | Stacy Garfield Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

In episode 418 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne chats with Stacy Garfield, a former aerospace engineer turned elopement photographer. Stacy shares her journey from aerospace engineering to photography, driven by her love for nature and a serendipitous proposal she captured at Ruby Beach. She explains elopement photography, highlighting the importance of planning, knowing the location, and understanding Leave No Trace principles. Stacy also discusses the challenges and joys of capturing intimate weddings in nature, incorporating night photography in her sessions, and her new mentorship programs for aspiring photographers. This episode offers a deep dive into Stacy's unique niche and dedication to creating memorable experiences for couples.

Resources Mentioned:

Support the show on Patreon
Leave No Trace
Castleton Valley Elopement Photography Disaster Story
Stacy's Mentorship Program
Matt's Photography Newsletter
Stacy's Recommended Photographers: Autumn Schrock, Melissa Schaefer, Dan Zafra, James McGivern, Deb Heyer

The Healing Power of Self-Portrait Photography | Sara Kushner Apr 14, 2025

Show notes

In episode 417 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne engages in a captivating conversation with Sara Kushner, a talented self-portrait photographer with 16 years of experience. Sara delves into her journey, explaining how self-portraiture functions as a form of therapy, allowing her to process emotions and express vulnerability. She contrasts her art with the influencer-driven self-portrait culture, emphasizing authenticity and artistic intent. The discussion also touches on Sara’s dual role as an anti-diet registered dietitian, her plans to combine her passions in future workshops, and the technical aspects and emotional depth of self-portrait photography. Sara shares how she navigates judgment and the unique blend of landscape and self-portraiture in her work, striving to evoke emotions and authenticity in her audience.

Links:

Follow Sara on Instagram
Stay connected with Sara on her newsletter
Learn more about the Natural Landscape Photography Awards
Stay connected with Matt on his newsletter
Support the podcast on Patreon
Sara's offering 10% our listeners/watchers on her prints, use the code FSTOP10
Sara's recommended photographers: Katie Lingan, Van Gachnang

Hunting for Meaning in Photography | Matt Redfern Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

In episode 416 of "F Stop, Collaborate, and Listen," host Matt Payne interviews photographer Matt Redfern about his evolution from capturing popular social media scenes to focusing on more personally fulfilling and unique nature photography. Redfern, influenced by his outdoor upbringing and hunting background, shares how his meticulous observation skills have shaped his artistic approach. The conversation delves into his journey from initial interest sparked during travels, to finding his true calling in nature photography after moving to Oregon. They discuss the importance of continuous learning, meaningful work, and their shared experiences in healthcare IT. The episode also highlights the Natural Landscape Photography Awards and Redfern's aspirations to physically display his work, contributing to the community, and the value of creativity in photography.
Watch on Youtube
Links:

Natural Landscape Photography Awards
Brews N' Views
Out of Chicago
Muench Workshops
Guy Tal's Books
Support the podcast
Recommended photographers: Alex Jones, Nader Daii, Jack Krohn, Eric Busch, and Maria Ruggieri

Reflections on Eight Years of Photography Podcasting Mar 31, 2025

Show notes

In this retrospective 415th episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," hosts Matt Payne and Nic Stover dive into the podcast’s journey over the last eight years, celebrating landmark moments and lessons learned. Payne reflects on producing over 400 episodes and handling extensive content management, including panels on artificial intelligence and NFTs, which spurred fascinating and often polarizing discussions within the landscape photography community. The hosts emphasize the importance of maintaining fresh and diverse podcast content by featuring guest-recommended subjects and delving into broader photography genres like street and wedding photography.

Payne also highlights the personal growth he's experienced through podcasting, including increased open-mindedness and the ability to balance professional and personal life effectively. Nic Stover underscores the podcast's community-building impact, such as the successful speaker series supporting nonprofit organizations. Both hosts share insights into podcast monetization challenges and strategies for enduring success, including Patreon support, which offers bonus episodes and early access.

Celebrating over 1.5 million downloads, this episode focuses on the sustained passion for photography and podcasting, addressing Payne's struggles with imposter syndrome and audience contentment. Subscribe to the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast newsletter for exclusive updates, and use discount code "FSTOP" for 10% off upcoming nature photography courses through Nic's great platform.

Resources Mentioned

Nature Photography Classes (use the code FSTOP10 for 10% off)
Matt's podcast newsletter
Support the show
AI Panel episode
NFT Panel episode
My article on IR Photography
Cole Thompson's article on popularity
Mary Jo Hoffman's episode
Matt Beaty's episode
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards

Embrace Authenticity Over Perfection in Photography | Alex Berger Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

In episode 414 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne chats with travel blogger, writer, and photographer Alex Berger. Berger discusses his journey in travel blogging, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and creating content that resonates emotionally with audiences. He shares insights from his experience creating YouTube videos about Danish culture and repurposing them into a successful podcast format. The conversation delves into the challenges of managing creative projects alongside other life responsibilities, balancing perfection with authenticity, and the joys and struggles of maintaining a generalist approach in photography. Berger also talks about his product Mist Defender, highlighting the lessons learned from its development and launch. They reflect on how their varied experiences enhance their photography practices and discuss the importance of finding new passions to sustain creative enthusiasm.

Resources Mentioned on the Podcast:

Jeppe Michael Jensen podcast episode
Support the podcast on Patreon
Join Matt's Podcast Mailing List
Alex's book, Practical Curiosity
Alex's lens cloth invention - Mist Defender
Alex Blog, Virtual Wayfarer
Alex's YouTube videos on Danish Culture
Alex's recommended photographers: Anders Nordsted, Charly van den Braack, Frank Otto Pedersen

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

F-Stop Collaborate and Listen – A Photography Podcast

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected