F-Stop Collaborate and Listen - A Photography Podcast

Matt Payne
  • 4.7 (309)
  • 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 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. 6h ago

    Artful Aerial Photography & Mining Truth | Scott McCook

    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 Aboriginal communities. Scott McCook shares how his work straddles the line between art and documentary, aiming to spark curiosity and dialogue rather than delivering pointed messages. Links and Resources: Muench Workshops Giveaway Scott McCook's Website Scott on Instagram Muench Workshops Rio Tinto's Destruction of Juukan Gorge Tom Putt (photographer recommended) Support the show on Patreon

    Artful Aerial Photography & Mining Truth | Scott McCook

  2. Jul 13

    Create Photographs Fearlessly | Rick Bebbington

    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. Resources and Links: Muench Workshops Giveaway Rick Bebbington The Colorado Way book Support the show on Patreon Muench Workshops Start With Why by Simon Sinek Ikigai (concept overview) Rachel Bixby Dani Connor Bonus Episode on the Magic Sweater

    Create Photographs Fearlessly | Rick Bebbington

  3. Jul 6

    Making Extraordinary Photographs in Ordinary Places | Garrett Hess

    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 making art close to home, and reframing one's relationship with the often-uninspiring places they live. Links Mentioned This Week: Muench Workshops Giveaway Garrett Hess Support the show on Patreon NLPA The Colorado Way book Muench Workshops Jonathan Buford Kyle McDougall YouTube Channel Tobias Yoder Photography Joshua Wallace Photography

    Making Extraordinary Photographs in Ordinary Places | Garrett Hess

  4. Jun 29

    The Journey of the Emerging Professional Photographer | Ben Maze & Murray Livingston

    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 reflect on the challenges and benefits of being younger professionals in the field. Throughout, they emphasize maintaining authenticity amidst commercial and algorithmic pressures, advocating for deep engagement with nature and diverse artistic influences over chasing trends for quick attention. Links and Resources Mentioned: Ben Maze & Murray Livingston Muench Workshops Giveaway Support the show on Patreon The Colorado Way (Matt Payne's Book) Peter Dombrovskis, Joe Cornish, Clark Little, Ray Collins, William Neill, Alex Noriega, Ken Duncan, Heesoo Chung, Andrea Celli, Andrea Pozzi, Luis Afonso Looking at Photographs by John Szarkowski Photography in Print by Vicki Goldberg Photographers on Photography by Nathan Lyons NLPA (Natural Landscape Photography Awards) Discord Server for Landscape Photographers

  5. Jun 22

    Exploring the World of Photography Neuroarts | Nichole Vild

    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 to strengthen curiosity, creativity, and emotional resilience (use code FSTOP79 - good June 22 -July 7). The conversation highlights the importance of getting outside, slowing down, and practicing mindful creativity as a strategy for navigating life’s transitions and building stronger neural connections. Order Matt Payne's Book, The Colorado Way Support the show on Patreon Muench Workshops Neuroarts Blueprint Sally Mann Rannveig Björk Kerry-Ann Lecky Hepburn The Nature Fix by Florence Williams Tim Floyd's book

    Exploring the World of Photography Neuroarts | Nichole Vild

  6. Jun 15

    Follow Your Photography Passion to Wild Heights | Jason Bradley

    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, building a photography community, and special giveaways for listeners. Links and Resources Mentioned This Week Jason Bradley / Bradley Photographic Lab Wild Eye Magazine Muench Workshops John Shaw Book Ansel Adams: A Biography by Mary Street Alinder John Sexton Ted Orland Vital Impacts (Amy Vitale's foundation) Patterns by Jon McCormick Bob Talbot Crush It by Gary Vaynerchuk Support the show on Patreon Support Matt Payne's Book Wild Eye Magazine promo code "FSTOP": wildeyemagazine.com (use code at checkout) Bradley Photographic Print Lab promo code "FSTOP": bradleyprintandphoto.com (mention code at checkout)

    Follow Your Photography Passion to Wild Heights | Jason Bradley

  7. Jun 8

    Balancing Life, Art, and Social Media as a Photographer | Grant Swinbourne

    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 theft, the balance between personal satisfaction and business, and the lessons learned through podcasting. Both speakers reflect on how engaging with a diverse community of photographers has enriched their perspectives and creativity, offering listeners plenty to contemplate about their own approach to photography. Links and Resources: Grant Swinbourne Landscape Photography World Podcast Muench Workshops Support the show on Patreon Andy Vukasev Helen Cyr

    Balancing Life, Art, and Social Media as a Photographer | Grant Swinbourne

  8. Jun 1

    The Man on a Photographic Mission to Save the Badger | Ian Wood

    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 opinion and policy. Throughout, Ian Wood highlights hopeful conservation stories and encourages photographers to follow their passion, build relationships, and trust in their ability to drive change. Links and Resources: Ian Wood Ian Wood's Instagram Ian's winning image on Wildlife Photographer of the Year Muench Workshops Support the show on Patreon Orangutan Foundation UK Badger Trust Protect the Wild Chris Packham Save Me Trust (Brian May) Gorilla Doctors Jane Goodall Institute Wildlife Photographer of the Year Ross Hoddinott (Recommended Photographer)

    The Man on a Photographic Mission to Save the Badger | Ian Wood
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4.7
out of 5
309 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 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.

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