F-Stop Collaborate and Listen

Matt Payne
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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 is also a mountaineer, climbing the highest 100 mountains in Colorado. 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.

  1. 475: Hanneke Van Camp - Capturing the Magic of Sápmi

    7 HR AGO

    475: Hanneke Van Camp - Capturing the Magic of Sápmi

    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 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

    57 min
  2. 474: Ulana Switucha - Capturing Japan's Spiritual Landscapes

    18 MAY

    474: Ulana Switucha - Capturing Japan's Spiritual Landscapes

    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 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

    54 min
  3. 473: Reuben Wu - The Art of Aeroglyphs

    11 MAY

    473: Reuben Wu - The Art of Aeroglyphs

    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 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

    1hr 3min
  4. 472: Shaun Keenan - How Over-Tourism is Quietly Destroying Japan

    4 MAY

    472: Shaun Keenan - How Over-Tourism is Quietly Destroying Japan

    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 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

    1hr 4min
  5. 471: John Welch - What Loons Taught Me About Parenting, Loss, and Getting Outside My Comfort Zone

    27 APR

    471: John Welch - What Loons Taught Me About Parenting, Loss, and Getting Outside My Comfort Zone

    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 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, and how working on a long-term photographic story can offer both creative fulfillment and personal growth. The episode is an inspiring look at how art, nature, and personal challenges can intersect to create meaningful work that resonates deeply with others. Links: John Welch: Website, Instagram Muench Workshops F-Stop Collaborate and Listen Podcast Patreon Natural Landscape Photography Awards Matt Payne's Book, The Colorado Way John Welch's YouTube Channel, Nature's Stories Loon Preservation Committee Team MooseMan Harry Lichtman Photography Kraig Adams Harmen Hoek Morgan Heim’s Podcast Episode

    57 min

  6. 20 APR

    470: Joe Doherty - How my Brother with Down Syndrome Shaped my Photography Journey

    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 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 evolving culture of the photography community from the competitive days of the ‘80s to today’s more collaborative and generous environment. Joe Doherty and Matt Payne reflect on mentorship, the power of intentional creative practice, and how aging out of the need to monetize art can reignite joy and artistry. The episode is full of warmth, gratitude, and practical wisdom for anyone interested in photography, legacy, or finding meaning in personal creative projects. Links: Joe Doherty Photography Muench Workshops The Johnny Chronicles Natural Landscape Photography Awards Support the show on Patreon Jerry Dodrill Terry Donnelly | Mary Liz Austin

    1hr 9min

  7. 13 APR

    469: Kathy Lichtendahl - Yellowstone in Winter

    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 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 wildlife photography, shares what being a naturalist brings to her photographic work, and highlights the importance of preserving Yellowstone for future generations. If you’re interested in viewing Yellowstone through a lens of wonder, responsibility, and conservation, this episode is a must-listen. Links: Kathy Lichtendahl Muench Workshops Draper Natural History Museum Greater Yellowstone Coalition Master Naturalist Programs by State Excelsior Geyser (4,000 gallons per minute!) Support the podcast on Patreon

    47 min
  8. 468: Greg Boratyn - Processing Landscapes with Integrity

    6 APR

    468: Greg Boratyn - Processing Landscapes with Integrity

    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 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 authentic, meaningful work. Links and Resources: Greg Boratyn Muench Workshops Support the show on Patreon Contact Matt Natural Landscape Photography Awards Glass Andrew Waddington Evan Will

    1hr 12min
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About

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 is also a mountaineer, climbing the highest 100 mountains in Colorado. 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.

Information

  • Creator
    Matt Payne
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    474
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2017-2025. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    F-Stop Collaborate and Listen

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