In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with Lucia Rollow, founder of the Bushwick Community Darkroom in Brooklyn, New York. Lucia shares how her personal need for a darkroom evolved into a thriving communal space that fosters creativity, collaboration, and real-world connection in an increasingly digital world. The conversation explores the therapeutic and social aspects of analog photography, how community spaces like hers combat loneliness and bring people together, and the ups and downs of running such a unique business for nearly 15 years. Lucia also delves into the challenges of sustaining a creative community, the importance of shared passion, and offers advice for anyone wanting to build similar spaces or incorporate analog processes into their photography. Throughout, she highlights the value of hands-on, in-person interactions for creative growth and meaningful human connection. Links and Resources: 1. Bushwick Community Darkroom

2. Lucia Rollow's FLM Tripods (use the code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off)

4. Penumbra Foundation (Antique/Alternative Process Workshops)

5. Midwest Center for Photography (Open Calls)

6. Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam—on the importance of social Capital and community in modern life (Affiliate Link)

7. Print LHC, a high-end digital printing lab in Brooklyn led by Lacey Wethersbee

8. Film Camera Recommendation: Pentax K1000 (perfect for beginners and landscape / analog enthusiasts)

9. OK McCausland

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with photographer Seth Robbins to explore his intimate new photo book, "A Trustworthy Home," which documents Orthodox Jewish weddings from an insider’s perspective. Robbins discusses his approach to avoiding cliched or trophy-driven images, instead emphasizing the power of trust, cultural understanding, and authentic connection with his subjects. The conversation delves into themes of individuality within community, the challenges and rewards of photographing from the inside, and the importance of storytelling over spectacle—lessons that landscape and nature photographers can also apply. The episode wraps with practical insights about producing art books and balancing the desire for reach with production costs, plus some inspiring recommendations for photographers to check out.

Resources and Links: 1. Check out Seth's book, "A Trustworthy Home"

2. Sam Abell's B+H Space Talk

3. Alex Webb

4. Henri Cartier-Bression

5. Mixam Books

6. Matt's Printique Book Review

7. Support the Podcast on Patreon

8. Photographer's Recommended by Seth: Mark Maio, Lynsey Addario, Cindy Hansen

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with fine art and conservation photographer Jonas Paurell to discuss his Arctic Transcendence series, which explores the fragile beauty of the Arctic region. Jonas shares his journey from human rights lawyer to full-time photographer, recounting the life-changing health scare that prompted him to pursue his passion for photography and conservation. They dive into his creative approach—using negative space and minimalism to highlight the impermanence and vulnerability of Arctic landscapes—while also exploring the deeper purpose behind his art: inspiring love for nature as a means to protect it. Jonas and Matt touch on the challenges and ethics of photographing wildlife in threatened environments, the importance of community in photography workshops, and the balance between commercial success and personal creativity. Jonas also discusses his upcoming exhibition at the Hasselblad Foundation and the evolving regulations in Arctic photography. Throughout, the episode offers thoughtful reflections on finding purpose, the role of art in conservation, and the power of long-term commitment to a single project.

Resources Mentioned:

• Support the podcast on Patreon
• Find Jonas on Instagram
• Hasselblad Foundation Exhibition
• FLM Tripods (use the code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off)
• Nick Brandt, Gregory Crewdson