F-Stop Collaborate and Listen

Tom Watson, co-founder of the photography platform Glass and former designer at Facebook and Pinterest, shares insights into creating a user-friendly space for photographers. He highlights Glass’s unique features that prioritize genuine community interactions and quality over algorithms. The conversation delves into the challenges of maintaining authenticity amid AI-generated content while promoting user feedback for continuous improvement. Watson also emphasizes the importance of privacy, as Glass aims to foster a tranquil and engaging experience free from the pressures of traditional social media.

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. Resources (some are affiliate links, thanks for your support): Lightroom Instruction Support the Podcast on Patreon Suzanne's Gear: Canon 100-500; Canon R5 Guy Tal - Be Extraordinary Muench Workshops Recommended photographers: Greg McCown, Julieanne Kost, J. Fritz Rumpf

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. Resources: Grant's Books DJI Mavic 3 Pro Recommended Photographers: Glenn Randall, Mike Berensen, Bret Edge

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. Resources: Support the Podcast on Patreon or Paypal Iron's book, "Hike It!" (affiliate link) Iron's TikTok channel Iron's guest recommendations: Laurence Smith & Mark Stewart

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. Resources Mentioned: Support the podcast on Patreon Smith & Molde Study of 2015 Exposed: Trapped in the Past Project Chronic Wasting Disease and Apex Predators Melissa Groo, Charles Davis, Douglas Gimsey, Max Waugh

Vanessa Joy, a Canon Explorer of Light and photography business guru, shares her journey from teaching to successful photography. She dives into the importance of knowing your audience for effective marketing and discusses navigating the ethics of advertising. Vanessa also emphasizes maintaining work-life balance amidst the hustle and offers insights into diversifying income. With tales from her international photography trips and humor-filled anecdotes, she encourages authenticity in both creativity and connections.

In this engaging conversation, photographer Wendy Bagnall, renowned for her multiple exposure and ICM techniques, shares her journey of finding a unique photographic voice through experimentation and vulnerability. She highlights the therapeutic power of photography, particularly during her health struggles. Wendy discusses the importance of authenticity and integrity in creative work, as well as challenges like art pricing and location sharing. Excitingly, she reveals plans to transition to full-time photography with upcoming workshops, emphasizing community engagement and personal connection.

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne speaks with David Hundley, who shares insights on his transition from a commercial photographer to a fine art photographer after a life-altering stroke. Hundley reflects on his 18-year career photographing for Dreyfus, dealing with a health scare that led him to reevaluate his passion for art photography. Now residing on Whidbey Island, he is deeply involved with the local arts community. He serves as president of the Whidbey Island Arts Council and engages in creative projects like black and white portraits and street photography. Hundley discusses the challenges of fine art photography, the emotional impact of imagery, and his ongoing projects, while providing practical tips for capturing and organizing meaningful photographs. Resources Mentioned: Matt's new FREE eBook Whidbey Island Art Trail Join in on the conversation on Patreon Daniel Gregory Andrew Bernstein Jim Barnett

In this engaging conversation, Richard Young shares his journey from being an electrician in the UK to becoming a full-time photographer and workshop leader in New Zealand. He discusses the unique landscape of New Zealand, the differences in landscape photography between New Zealand and the US, and the challenges of running photography tours. Richard emphasizes the importance of expressive photography, the relationship between style and vision, and the need for intentionality in capturing the landscape. He also reflects on his evolving approach to photography and the significance of finding meaning in one's work. In this conversation, Richard Young discusses the deep connection between photography and nature, emphasizing the importance of immersing oneself in the landscape. He advocates for the significance of printed portfolios as a means of artistic expression and connection with viewers. Richard shares insights on crafting cohesive portfolios, refining one's best work, and balancing commercial intent with personal artistic vision. He also highlights the value of feedback in the creative process and introduces upcoming retreats focused on style and composition. Resources Mentioned on the Podcast: Support the Podcast on Patreon or PayPal Richard Young's eBooks Craig Potton Art Wolfe

Francesco Carovillano shares his journey as a landscape photographer, discussing his transition from commercial work to personal projects, particularly focusing on his book 'Fontainebleau Intimate Landscape.' He reflects on the importance of finding creative freedom in photography, the influence of social media, and the lessons learned from the Barbizon painters who fought to accept landscape art. Through his experiences, Francesco emphasizes the significance of personal expression and the limitless potential of deeply exploring a single location. In this conversation, Matt Payne and Francesco delve into the evolution of photography as an art form, discussing the historical context of intimate landscapes and the philosophical debates surrounding artistic interpretation versus documentary representation. Watch on YouTube Resources Mentioned Francesco's book: Fontainebleau - Intimate Landscape Francesco's camera kit: Canon R5 and the Canon 100-500 Guy Tal's latest book: Be Extraordinary Natural Landscape Photography Awards Volume 4 Book Support the podcast on Patreon