F-Stop Collaborate and Listen

Matt Payne
  • 4.7 (290)
  • VISUAL ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. 458: Joy Kachina - Capturing the Spirit of Endangered Landscapes

    2D AGO

    458: Joy Kachina - Capturing the Spirit of Endangered Landscapes

    In this episode 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 connection with Tasmania’s unique forests, particularly the threatened cider gum, and discusses how her photography is both a form of creative expression and environmental advocacy. The conversation touches on her process of intuitively capturing the “personality” of trees, the challenges of balancing aesthetic beauty with honest depictions of environmental loss, and the role of exhibitions and community in conservation efforts. The episode is an inspiring exploration of using art to celebrate natural wonders and shine a light on pressing conservation issues. Resources Mentioned Joy Kachina Photography Natural Landscape Photography Awards (NLPA) Support the show on Patreon The Meaning in the Making by Sean Tucker The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben Collapse by Jared Diamond The Giants (film) Tasmanian Land Conservancy Bob Brown Foundation The Ancients by Andrew Darby Joy Kachina on Instagram Photographers & Artists Mentioned Jeff Freestone Steve Parish Ken Duncan Wendy Bagnall Sally Mason Beth Buelow Karen Waller Martin Osner Mieka Boynton Luke Tscharke Paul Hoelen Martin Rak Hanneke van Camp

    1h 12m
  2. 457: Jason Hatfield - Influencers, Ethics, and the Gatekeeping Debate

    JAN 19

    457: Jason Hatfield - Influencers, Ethics, and the Gatekeeping Debate

    Warning: We say some cuss words.   In this episode 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 locations. They explore why both are drawn to remote, hard-to-reach places and the unique creative mindset those environments foster, as well as the practical juggling act between athleticism and artistic intent in the field. The heart of the conversation centers around the ethics of location sharing, the environmental and social impact of geotagging and “hidden gem” guides, and why both have chosen to pull back from sharing specific spots despite the popularity (and potential profitability) of doing so. They examine the difference between responsible restraint and exclusionary gatekeeping, the increasing pressures on public lands, and the real-world consequences of prioritizing fame or profit over stewardship. The episode closes with honest advice for photographers seeking to build a career without sacrificing their values, plus actionable conservation tips and a few heartfelt success stories in advocacy. Links:  Jason Hatfield’s Photography Matt Payne’s Photography & Book: The Colorado Way F-Stop Collaborate and Listen Patreon Colorado West Land Trust San Juan Mountains Association Western Watersheds Project National Wildlife Federation Nick Stover Photography Corey Aaron Photography Alex Burke Photography Andrew Tanasescu on Instagram

    1h 13m

  3. JAN 12

    456: Voices from Our Patreon Community

    This episode 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 a diverse range of voices as members talk about their latest projects, personal growth, and unique journeys in photography. The episode emphasizes how the community supports and inspires each other, and celebrates the connections, encouragement, and ongoing learning that come from being part of this engaged group. It’s a reminder that the podcast thrives because of its listeners, and an invitation to anyone seeking a welcoming creative space to get involved and help keep the community growing. P.S. You might benefit from watching on YouTube this week! Thank you to everyone who participated! It was amazing to see your projects! Links: Drishti Arya Trail Option (D. Craig Young) Shutter Nonsense Podcast (Michael Rung & Jeffrey Tadlock) Michael Rung Photography Photo Pack Pro (Michael Rung) Light of Day Gallery (Steve Caputo) Astrid Preisz Alex Berger Natalie Grybiene James Vooght Madeleine Lenagh Joe Doherty Jeffrey Tadlock Photography Patrick Krohn / One Eyed Dog Studios

    27 min
  4. 455: Mark Schumann - Capturing Homelessness with Humanity

    JAN 5

    455: Mark Schumann - Capturing Homelessness with Humanity

    In this episode 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 experiencing homelessness in over 70 cities, focusing on portraying them with dignity, humanity, and nuance rather than stereotypes. The conversation explores the complexities and misconceptions of homelessness, the ethical challenges of documentary work, the importance of personal connection in portraiture, and Mark Schumann's choice to shoot the project entirely on film for its historical resonance. The episode also offers reflections on the broader impact of storytelling in photography and advice for other photographers interested in meaningful long-term projects. If you're interested in the intersection of ethics, empathy, and visual storytelling, this episode is a must-listen. Resources and Links Discussed Mark Schumann's Website Robert Turner Dorothea Lange's book - Grab a Hunk of Lightning Nathan Benn's book - Florida: A Peculiar Paradise Arthur Meyerson's book - The Color of Light Support this podcast on Patreon

    44 min
  5. 454: Scott Kranz - Photographing Washington's Highest 100 Mountains

    12/29/2025

    454: Scott Kranz - Photographing Washington's Highest 100 Mountains

    In this episode 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 North Cascades, and the physical and mental challenges of documenting them. Scott shares insights from his massive projects—the 50 Peaks and Washington 100—to celebrate these landscapes and the effort required to capture their rugged beauty. The conversation also covers the importance of local passion projects, building relationships with brands, navigating risk and logistics in alpine photography, and Scott’s process for curating his upcoming book, Cascade High, which blends storytelling, adventure, and meaningful imagery. If you’re looking for inspiration around creative risk, project-building in photography, and the transformative power of the mountains, this episode won’t disappoint. Resources and Links: Scott Kranz's Books Snow & Spire by John Scurlock Light on the Landscape by William Neill Support this podcast on Patreon Gina Danza (Wild Gina) Elizabeth Gadd Scott Rinckenberger Matt's book, "The Colorado Way" Watch the episode on YouTube

    1h 17m
  6. 453: Tom Dauben - JPG Only!?

    12/22/2025

    453: Tom Dauben - JPG Only!?

    In this episode 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 renewed joy and mindfulness by focusing on authenticity and creative constraints, such as shooting only JPEGs and avoiding post-processing. The conversation delves into how his background in the environmental sector has shaped his storytelling with photography, the benefits and challenges of embracing limits, how landscape can influence photographic style, and why honesty in presenting images matters in today’s world of AI and heavy editing. They also touch on Tom Dauben's book "Dartmoor Unedited," his work with environmental nonprofits, and recommendations for photographers with a similar ethos. Links and Resources: Support the Podcast on Patreon Brian Lackey on YouTube Christophe Jacrot Kyle McDougall Stuart McGlennon

    1h 3m
  7. 452: Dara Ojo - The Extraordinary World of Insect Macro Photography

    12/15/2025

    452: Dara Ojo - The Extraordinary World of Insect Macro Photography

    In this episode 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 and respect for their crucial ecological roles. The conversation delves into his creative journey, the technical challenges and joys of capturing live insects up close, and the importance of ethical practices—steering clear of shortcuts like photographing dead specimens. They also discuss how macro photography can reshape public attitudes, support conservation efforts, and provide personal healing and connection to nature. With stories of surprising field discoveries, cultural perspectives, and the power of persistence, Dara Ojo highlights how small wonders can ignite big inspiration and why these subjects deserve greater appreciation in both art and science. Links and Resources: Dara Ojo's Website Cygnustech Diffusers Godox Flashes Helicon Focus PBS Bugs That Rule the World Support the podcast on Patreon

    59 min
  8. 451: Mike Weinhold - Hiking the New Hampshire 48: A Tale of Adventure and Art

    12/08/2025

    451: Mike Weinhold - Hiking the New Hampshire 48: A Tale of Adventure and Art

    In this episode 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 48 (the state’s 48 mountains over 4,000 feet) while always carrying his camera, navigating the tension between summiting for the checklist and slowing down for great images. They discuss motivations behind list hiking, its upsides and controversies, and how long-term projects shape one’s work and connection to the outdoors. Mike also delves into managing family life, curating large photo archives, the importance of intention in the photographic process, and blending writing with images to create deeper stories. The episode ends with thoughts on community, growth, and keeping passion alive even with a busy life and young children. Watch on YouTube Resources and Links: Mike Weinhold Support the show on Patreon Appalachian Mountain Club (NH 48 Patch) NLPA (Natural Landscape Photography Awards) Brooks Jensen (LensWork Podcast) Moultonborough Public Library (Exhibit Venue) Affiliate Links: B&H | Amazon Books & Authors Mentioned: "Understanding Exposure" by Bryan Peterson “Cuckoo Cloudland” (Book referenced) Organizations & Hiking Lists: New Hampshire 48 Four Thousand Footers List Adirondack 46ers People Referenced for Podcast Recommendations: Nick Becker John Welch Subhasish Dutta Kristen Weinhold Jack Crohn Harry Lichtman

    1h 7m
See All (457)

4.7
out of 5
290 Ratings

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
    457
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2017-2025. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    F-Stop Collaborate and Listen

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