452: Dara Ojo - The Extraordinary World of Insect Macro Photography
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:
Dara Ojo's Website
Cygnustech Diffusers
Godox Flashes
Helicon Focus
PBS Bugs That Rule the World
Support the podcast on Patreon
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58:47
451: Mike Weinhold - Hiking the New Hampshire 48: A Tale of Adventure and Art
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:
Mike Weinhold
Support the show on Patreon
Appalachian Mountain Club (NH 48 Patch)
NLPA (Natural Landscape Photography Awards)
Brooks Jensen (LensWork Podcast)
Moultonborough Public Library (Exhibit Venue)
Affiliate Links: B&H | Amazon
Books & Authors Mentioned:
"Understanding Exposure" by Bryan Peterson
“Cuckoo Cloudland” (Book referenced)
Organizations & Hiking Lists:
New Hampshire 48 Four Thousand Footers List
Adirondack 46ers
People Referenced for Podcast Recommendations:
Nick Becker
John Welch
Subhasish Dutta
Kristen Weinhold
Jack Crohn
Harry Lichtman
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1:07:08
450: Justin Tedford - Making Polaroid Emulsion Lifts to Combat PTSD
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
Resources and Links
Justin Tedford
Brenda Petrella’s Podcast
Professional Photographers of America (PPA)
Professional Photographers of Iowa (PPI)
Fstoppers
Polaroid Print Lab
Lensbaby Lenses
Bryan Minear
Support the show on Patreon
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
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45:09
449: Simon Carter - The Art of Climbing Photography
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
Resources and Links Discussed
Main Links
Simon Carter’s Website
The Art of Climbing (Simon Carter's Book)
Support the show on Patreon
Simon Carter No Filter YouTube Channel
Jim Thornburg (recommended photographer)
Nikon Z8 (camera mentioned)
DJI Osmo Pocket (video equipment)
Mavic Mini 4 Pro (drone mentioned)
Books Referenced
Everest the Hard Way by Chris Bonington
The White Spider by Heinrich Harrer
Rock Stars by Heinz Zak
Climbing Locations Mentioned
Blue Mountains, Australia
Mount Arapiles, Australia
The Grampians (Gariwerd), Australia
Devil’s Tower, Wyoming
People & Photographers Mentioned
Jimmy Chin
Keith Ladzinski
Stefan Glowacz
Chris Bonington (Mountaineer & Author)
Heinrich Harrer (Author)
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448: Marc Muench & Sara Linssen - Exploring the Art of Photography Workshops
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:
Muench Workshops
Muench Workshops Social Media:
Instagram
TikTok
Leave No Trace
F-Stop Collaborate and Listen Patreon
If you have any questions about the workshops, email the Muench Workshops team
Stay up to date:
Muench Workshops Mailing List Signup
Matt Payne's Upcoming Workshops
This photography podcast takes you well beyond camera gear each week with weekly interviews and panel discussions with professional photographers, industry insiders, enthusiasts, and hobbyists alike. Our candid but laid-back conversations deeply explore the craft of photography and psychological drivers relating to creativity, motivation, inspiration, and workflow. We also discuss social media, photography business practices, marketing, sales, and hot topics impacting photographers from all genres, with a particular focus on landscape, nature, and wildlife photography. The show is hosted by Matt Payne, a professional full-time nature photographer and the co-founder of the internationally renowned photography competition, the Natural Landscape Photography Awards. Matt is also a mountaineer, climbing the highest 100 mountains in Colorado. Matt leverages skills he gained in pursuit of his Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology to dig deeply into the hearts and minds of his passionate guests, revealing secrets and inspiration in every episode.