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.

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In this episode 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.

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In this episode 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.

In this retrospective 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.

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In this episode 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.

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In episode 413 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," Tom Watson, co-founder of the photography platform Glass, joins host Matt Payne to discuss Glass's user-centric approach, its expansion to multiple devices, and commitment to a quality user experience without ads or manipulative algorithms. Watson highlights Glass's unique features like high-quality image profiles, community-driven engagements, and a sustainable subscription model aimed at fostering genuine connections among photographers. Tom also underscores the importance of privacy, user feedback in development, and the platform's stance against AI-generated content.

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In episode 412 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," Matt Payne hosts landscape photographer and Adobe community expert Suzanne Mathia, who delves into her journey from a British corporate upbringing to a creative career in the United States. Suzanne explores her photography philosophy, particularly her "sponge theory," emphasizing flexibility and continuous learning. She shares practical techniques for wildlife photography, discusses creative cross-training, and the value of revisiting old work for inspiration. The episode features insights into powerful yet often overlooked Lightroom features, common user mistakes, and the importance of image organization and backups.

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In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne talks with Grant Collier, a renowned landscape photographer and publisher, about his extensive career capturing Colorado's wilderness, transitioning from film to digital photography, and leveraging drones for unique aerial perspectives. Collier discusses his challenges and strategies in self-publishing, including producing bestsellers like "Collier’s Guide to Night Photography" and his latest book "Colorado." He shares insights on balancing the art and business of photography, logistics of inventory management, and the evolution of his work, such as using telescopic images and creating creative products like a Bigfoot calendar. Collier also touches on personal experiences, his struggles with a chronic back issue, and his decision to avoid expanding his business to keep creative freedom. The episode concludes with practical advice for aspiring photographers and a lighthearted, ongoing friendly feud with fellow photographer Eric Stensland.

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In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne chats with Iron Tazz, a renowned Pacific Northwest photographer, about the profound benefits of psychedelics and meditation on his life and work. Iron Tazz discusses how meditation enhances awareness, helps manage modern distractions, and improves decision-making and well-being, akin to insights gained from psychedelic experiences. The conversation delves into the impacts of sobriety on creativity, Iron Tazz’s deep connection with the Olympic Mountains, and his recent shift in focus from social media to more meaningful projects, including his acclaimed book "Hike It" aimed at inspiring children to engage with nature. They also explore the challenges of parenting in a tech-heavy world and share personal anecdotes about backpacking with their children.

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In episode 409 of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne welcomes acclaimed wildlife photographer John Marriott, who discusses his passion for conservation and wildlife photography. Marriott emphasizes the crucial role of preserving biodiversity and balanced ecosystems with apex predators like grizzlies, cougars, and wolves, while critiquing outdated wildlife management practices dominated by the hunting and trapping community. He shares insights on the economic benefits of wildlife tourism over trophy hunting and the importance of ethical hunting. Marriott also recounts his personal journey in conservation, his recent award-winning photograph, and the challenges of promoting cohabitation between ranchers and predators. The episode concludes with recommendations for other influential photographers and a call to action to support Marriott's Exposed Wildlife Conservancy.

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