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:

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:

Books & Authors Mentioned:

Organizations & Hiking Lists:

People Referenced for Podcast Recommendations:

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with Justin Tedford, a combat veteran and photographer, about his unique approach to using photography as a healing tool to combat PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Justin shares his journey from small-town Iowa to working for the Department of Corrections, and describes how creative expression, specifically Polaroid emulsion lifts, became a therapeutic outlet during difficult times. The conversation delves into the tactile, imperfect process of transforming digital images into analog art, and how embracing imperfection mirrored Justin’s personal healing journey. They discuss creative ruts, the value of personal projects, and reconnecting with the “why” behind making images, along with Justin’s experience mentoring other veterans and photographers through mental health struggles and creative challenges.

Watch on YouTube

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with legendary Australian climbing photographer Simon Carter. Simon shares his journey from a teenage photography enthusiast and avid climber to building a decades-long career capturing some of the most iconic and artistic climbing images in the world. He discusses the challenges and unique techniques of shooting in vertical, often extreme, environments, including the development of remote camera setups and the creative process behind balancing climber, rock architecture, and landscape in each composition. Simon also reflects on the vital role of climbing guidebooks and niche focus in sustaining his career, and talks about his latest book, "The Art of Climbing." The episode offers inspiring insights for photographers of all backgrounds about persistence, innovation, and staying true to one’s creative vision in a specialized field.

Watch on YouTube

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with Marc Muench and Sara Linssen, co-owners of Muench Workshops, about what it takes to create world-class photography workshops. They dive into the backstory of Muench Workshops, sharing how it all began with a desire to offer immersive, learning-focused experiences rather than conventional tours. The conversation covers the evolving landscape of travel, the importance of ethical practices, and how they balance growth with maintaining quality. Sara discusses the business challenges behind the scenes, and Marc reflects on the value of sharing authentic experiences to inspire both creativity and environmental stewardship. They also touch on building a positive team culture, the role of local guides, and what it means to truly delight participants. The episode is packed with practical advice for aspiring workshop leaders and anyone interested in elevating their own photography journey.

Resources:

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with renowned bird photographer Owen Deutsch to explore his fascinating journey from a 20-year career in fashion photography to a passion-driven life capturing birds in the wild. Owen shares the story of his early love for photography, the creative and technical lessons he carried from fashion to wildlife, and his deep commitment to conservation through visual storytelling. The conversation touches on practical bird photography tips—like getting low, using shallow depth of field, and understanding light—as well as ethical considerations and ways photographers can inspire others to care about birds and conservation. Owen also discusses his new book, "Birds of the Tropical Andes," his collaborations with conservation organizations, and offers advice for both beginners and those photographing closer to home. The episode is packed with inspiration for anyone interested in blending art, nature, and purpose in their creative work.

Watch on Youtube

Resources and Links:

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne chats with Zimbabwe-born safari guide, conservationist, and wildlife photographer Devon Jenkin. Devon shares stories from his adventurous upbringing in Africa, how a childhood surrounded by nature and camping experiences led him into wildlife photography, and his progression from camp management to guiding photographic safaris in Botswana. He discusses his immersive, holistic approach to safaris, emphasizing connecting with nature and understanding animal behavior for both richer experiences and better photographs. Devon also talks about his deepening commitment to conservation, supporting projects like the BioBoundary Project in Botswana, and how he uses his photography to raise awareness and funds for wildlife protection. The episode provides a fascinating look at the intersection of storytelling, conservation, and the personal connection to wild places through photography.

Watch on YouTube

Links and Resources:

Photographers Mentioned on the Podcast:

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with creative duo Chris Fulcher and Savannah Woods, whose striking photography blends art, storytelling, travel, and editorial imagery. The conversation delves into their evolution from hands-on photographers to creative directors running a full media agency, their dynamic as a couple collaborating on projects, and the inventive use of lighting, fire, and AI/Photoshop in their bold, cinematic work. Chris and Savannah discuss how they navigate creative conflict, support each other both professionally and personally, and maintain balance while often living on the road. The episode features behind-the-scenes stories of their most unique shoots—including proposals, editorial campaigns, and elaborate light-painting photography—while offering insight into the technical and creative decisions shaping their vibrant, larger-than-life images.

Watch on YouTube

Resources and Links:

Referenced Artists and Shows:

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne chats with Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove, a Belgian-born, Iceland-based landscape and nature photographer renowned for his dramatic imagery of Iceland's volcanoes and highlands. Jeroen describes how photographing his first volcanic eruption reignited his creative passion and profoundly shaped his approach to storytelling and visual art, emphasizing authentic experiences, patience, and the emotional connection to the landscape over chasing social media validation. The conversation explores the ethical challenges of drone photography, the dangers of rapidly growing photo tourism in Iceland, the importance of safety and legal compliance for workshop leaders, and lessons learned from self-publishing his successful book "New Earth." Jeroen also shares practical advice for visiting Iceland, his views on AI and manipulation in photography, the value of meaningful struggle, and recommendations for other inspiring photographers to follow.

Resources & Links:

In this "Artists Asking Artists" episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, hosts Matt Payne and Brie Stockwell sit down with renowned Norwegian landscape photographer Arild Heitmann. Arild discusses his evolution as a photographer, sharing insights into his creative process, the influence of his upbringing in Northern Norway, and his passion for moody, atmospheric imagery. He opens up about balancing a busy workshop business with personal projects, embracing both challenges in the wild and in adapting new photographic techniques like analog and infrared. The conversation explores the impact of tourism on iconic natural locations, the challenge of staying fresh creatively, and Arild’s philosophy on pushing boundaries and following instinct rather than repeating formulas. With stories ranging from frostbite-inducing adventures to the joys of failing and surprising oneself artistically, this episode is packed with humor, inspiration, and advice for anyone looking to deepen their photographic journey.

Resources & Links: