In this episode 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.

1. Order Matt Payne's Book, The Colorado Way
2. Support the show on Patreon
3. Muench Workshops
4. Neuroarts Blueprint
5. Sally Mann
6. Rannveig Björk
7. Kerry-Ann Lecky Hepburn
8. The Nature Fix by Florence Williams
9. Tim Floyd's book

In this episode 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.

1. Jason Bradley / Bradley Photographic Lab
2. Wild Eye Magazine
3. Muench Workshops
4. John Shaw Book
5. Ansel Adams: A Biography by Mary Street Alinder
6. John Sexton
7. Ted Orland
8. Vital Impacts (Amy Vitale's foundation)
9. Patterns by Jon McCormick
10. Bob Talbot
11. Crush It by Gary Vaynerchuk
12. Support the show on Patreon
13. Support Matt Payne's Book
14. Wild Eye Magazine promo code "FSTOP": wildeyemagazine.com (use code at checkout)
15. Bradley Photographic Print Lab promo code "FSTOP": bradleyprintandphoto.com (mention code at checkout)

In this episode 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:

1. Grant Swinbourne
2. Landscape Photography World Podcast
3. Muench Workshops
4. Support the show on Patreon
5. Andy Vukasev
6. Helen Cyr

In this episode 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:

1. Ian Wood
2. Ian Wood's Instagram
3. Ian's winning image on Wildlife Photographer of the Year
4. Muench Workshops
5. Support the show on Patreon
6. Orangutan Foundation UK
7. Badger Trust
8. Protect the Wild
9. Chris Packham
10. Save Me Trust (Brian May)
11. Gorilla Doctors
12. Jane Goodall Institute
13. Wildlife Photographer of the Year
14. Ross Hoddinott (Recommended Photographer)

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne interviews Belgian photographer Hanneke Van Camp, whose work is rooted in her deep love for nature and her background in biology and science communication. Hanneke Van Camp shares the motivations behind her award-winning “Sápmi Living Landscapes” project, which explores the land and culture of Northern Scandinavia and the indigenous Sami people, as well as her experiences living seasonally in the Arctic for most of the year. The conversation delves into topics like the importance of presence over production in photography, the unique connection between environment and culture in the far north, practical ways photographers can infuse storytelling and meaning into their work, and how a values-driven approach—such as sustainability and giving back—can shape your creative life. They also discuss the process and challenges of turning a long-term project into a book, the impact of print vs. digital, and the influence of other photographers and storytellers on her journey. Links and Resources:

1. Hanneke Van Camp
2. Natural Landscape Photography Awards (NLPA)
3. Order the Sápmi Book by Hanneke Van Camp
4. Muench Workshops
5. Vital Impacts (Amy Vitale's organization)
6. Mother Magazine (Melissa Schäfer)
7. Kevin Morgans – Prince of Puffins
8. Feli Hansen (referenced project "Guilty Trashures")
9. Marcus Westberg
10. Freedom to Roam (Allemansrätten)
11. Rewilding Europe
12. Rewilding Sweden
13. Matt's Arborglyphs Project
14. Bonus Episode here on Patreon

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne chats with photographer Ulana Switucha about her deeply intentional, minimalist landscape photography and her decade-long project photographing Torii gates across Japan’s spiritual and geographic landscapes. Ulana Switucha shares how living in Asia and practicing long exposure photography has shaped her contemplative approach, blending meditation, yoga philosophy, and presence in nature. The episode covers her photographic journey from childhood, her involvement in documentary street photography projects, the creative process behind her new book, and the technical and emotional challenges of sequencing and publishing a cohesive body of work.

Listeners get tips on curating projects, insight into Japan’s geography and spiritual traditions, and recommendations for other inspiring photographers to follow.

Links and Resources:

1. Ulana Switucha
2. Ulana Switucha’s Book, Torii
3. Muench Workshops
4. Support the show on Patreon
5. Michael Kenna Photography
6. Olivier Robert Photography
7. Kino Seido
8. Yukari Chikura
9. Gui Christ
10. Mark Kogel
11. Austin Bell
12. Matt Payne's Book, The Colorado Way

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with acclaimed visual artist Reuben Wu, discussing Wu’s creative journey from industrial designer and musician to innovative landscape photographer. Wu shares how his interdisciplinary background shaped his approach, emphasizing craft, experimentation, and the joy of physically engaging with his subjects. They dive into Wu’s signature drone lighting techniques and “aeroglyphs”—light gestures made in landscapes—and the happy accidents that inspired them. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity, authorship, ethical boundaries, and the challenge of balancing originality with influence. Wu also gives practical insights into printmaking, managing editions, collector relationships, and marketing, stressing the value of intentionality and connection over trends. The episode is rich with actionable advice for artists seeking to define their own vision while maintaining creative integrity.

Links and Resources:

1. Reuben Wu on Instagram
2. Natural Landscape Photography Awards
3. Muench Workshops
4. Support the show on Patreon
5. Ladytron
6. Tycho
7. Latitude
8. National Geographic
9. Adobe Max
10. Eddie Adams Workshop
11. Dan Winters
12. Acacia Johnson
13. Elliot Ross

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne chats with Shaun Keenan, an American photographer living in Hokkaido, Japan. They dive deep into the issue of over tourism, especially its impact on beloved photo locations in Japan and worldwide, and discuss the ethical dilemmas photographers face when sharing these places. Shaun Keenan shares his personal journey from theater and filmmaking to photography, touches on the importance of respecting local cultures, and offers his thoughts on creative motivation, community, and finding meaning in photography beyond metrics or monetization. Throughout, both speakers emphasize the value of thoughtful, respectful engagement with the land, and the importance of leading with personal values rather than simply chasing viral fame or financial gain. The episode is rich with wisdom for anyone interested in sustainable creativity and responsible travel photography.

Links and Resources:

1. Shaun Keenan
2. Shaun Keenan on YouTube
3. Shaun’s Hokkaido Video
4. Muench Workshops
5. Natural Landscape Photography Awards
6. Nature First
7. Simon Booth
8. Pete Leong
9. Eiji Ohashi
10. Michael Yamashita
11. Support the show on Patreon