F-Stop Collaborate and Listen

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with Hilary Bralove, a Colorado-based photographer, about the deep personal value of experiencing nature through photography. Hilary Bralove shares her journey from city life to the wild outdoors, the lessons learned from a diverse background in resource management, scuba diving, and music, and the joy of letting curiosity—and not the pursuit of perfect images—drive her creative process. Together, they discuss the importance of observation, solitude, learning through failure, and embracing unpredictability, especially when photographing wildlife and landscapes. The conversation is an inspiring reflection on finding fulfillment in the process itself, keeping expectations low, and remembering that every photo is attached to a unique memory and experience, above all else.

Links and Resources:

Support the show on Patreon

Hilary Bralove on Instagram

Kristi Odom

Jamie Bollschweiler

Lisa Langell

Brett Wood

Landscape Photographers Worldwide Discord

Kane Engelbert’s Utah Aerial Photography

Jack Brauer

Daro Ojo

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with Swedish photographer and musician Erik Malm for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of photography, music, and lived experience. Erik Malm discusses his unique approach to intentional camera movement (ICM), emphasizing it as a tool for emotional expression rather than a mere gimmick. The discussion covers how his background as a conductor and musician deeply shapes his visual work, the importance of blending art forms, and the challenges of conveying both beauty and urgency in environmental storytelling. There’s practical insight into his photographic technique, encouragement to seek inspiration from diverse art forms, and advice for photographers striving for authenticity even when social media trends push for conformity. The episode is an inspiring look at using creativity to explore our relationship with nature and existence, with recommendations for other artists who think deeply about these themes.

Resources and Links:

Erik Malm

Support the Podcast on Patreon

Matt’s Book, The Colorado Way

Blue Ocean Strategy

Anders Geidemark

Mats Andersson

Georgina Strange

Ingebjørg Fyreleiv Guldvik

Hanneke Van Camp

Sandra Bartocha

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with Ohio-based landscape photographer Jeffrey Tadlock for a thoughtful conversation about building a creative and sustainable photography ecosystem. The discussion explores Jeffrey Tadlock's journey from documenting outdoor adventures in his youth, through a corporate hiatus, and back into the world of photography—this time focusing on making meaningful images in non-iconic locations like Ohio's Hocking Hills. They dig into topics such as the importance of practicing locally, navigating imposter syndrome within a talented photography community, the technical and emotional aspects of teaching workshops, and the challenges of balancing creative pursuits with life and business. The episode also touches on the frustrations and rewards of social media, and why finding passion, community, and impact make all the effort worthwhile. If you’re a landscape photographer, workshop leader, or simply someone passionate about creativity, this episode offers a real look at what it takes to keep going—and growing—in a crowded field.

Resources and Links

F-Stop Collaborate and Listen Patreon

Landscape Photographers Worldwide (LPW) Discord

Jeffrey Tadlock’s Website & Workshops

Jeffrey Tadlock YouTube Channel

Shutter Nonsense Podcast

Natural Landscape Photography Awards (NLPA)

Garrett Hess

Caleb McKinney

Shanda Akin

Horizons Photo Conference

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, Matt Payne sits down with amateur photographer Colleen Parker for an open, insightful chat about staying inspired, steering clear of creative ruts, and enjoying a personal and meaningful photographic journey. Colleen Parker, a retired radiologist, discusses how her scientific background intersects with her artistry and how letting go of expectations—both internal and external—has allowed her creativity to flourish. The conversation delves into the pressures of social media, the importance of personal growth over style conformity, the pitfalls and benefits of seeking validation, finding purpose in photography (from conservation to simply bringing joy), and how to move from imitation to authentic self-expression. Whether you’re just starting out or decades into your craft, this episode offers practical wisdom on making photography a fulfilling, lifelong pursuit.


P.S. don't miss our insightful and fun bonus episode on Patreon!

Links and Resources:

Colleen Parker

Support the show on Patreon

Matt Payne’s Book, The Colorado Way

Natural Landscape Photography Awards

Art Wolfe

Alex Noriega

Rachel Talibart

Paul Nicklen

Cristina Mittermeier

Alex Rohde

April Norman

Becky Kuperstein

Nader Daii

Ambarish Goswami (naturewithambarish)

Maria Ruggieri

Feli Hansen, “Guilty Trashures” Project (NLPA)

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne sits down with Patrick Krohn, winner of the Natural Landscape Photography Awards’ "In Your Backyard" special award. Patrick Krohn shares his journey from photojournalism and sales into a deeply rooted local photography practice centered around his hometown of Aiken, South Carolina. The conversation dives into the value of photographing locally—both for developing creative consistency and for lowering the stakes so you can experiment, learn from mistakes, and hone your skills daily. Patrick Krohn discusses the parallels between sales tenacity and artistic growth, emphasizes the importance of community connections, and makes a compelling case for finding your own audience rather than chasing external trends. Sprinkled with practical advice and thoughtful anecdotes, this episode is packed with actionable insights for photographers looking to find meaning and improvement without traveling far from home or bending to outside pressures.

Links and Resources:

Patrick Krohn (One Eyed Dog Studios)

Support the Show on Patreon

Natural Landscape Photography Awards (NLPA)

Out of Chicago Workshops

Chicago Botanic Garden

Center for Photographic Art, Carmel, CA

Anne Belmont

Carol Guzy

Beth Young

Stephanie Johnson

Seth Godin – Purple Cow

John Sexton

Freeman Patterson

Matt Payne’s Infrared Photography Article

Slow Photography Movement – Episode 210