447: Owen Deutsch - From Fashion to Bird Photography
In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with renowned bird photographer Owen Deutsch to explore his fascinating journey from a 20-year career in fashion photography to a passion-driven life capturing birds in the wild. Owen shares the story of his early love for photography, the creative and technical lessons he carried from fashion to wildlife, and his deep commitment to conservation through visual storytelling. The conversation touches on practical bird photography tips—like getting low, using shallow depth of field, and understanding light—as well as ethical considerations and ways photographers can inspire others to care about birds and conservation. Owen also discusses his new book, "Birds of the Tropical Andes," his collaborations with conservation organizations, and offers advice for both beginners and those photographing closer to home. The episode is packed with inspiration for anyone interested in blending art, nature, and purpose in their creative work.
Watch on Youtube
Resources and Links:
Owen Deutsch's Website
Howard Schatz
American Bird Conservancy
Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary (Magic Hedge)
eBird
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Order Owen Deutsch’s Book "Birds of the Tropical Andes"
Support the show on Patreon
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446: Devon Jenkin - The Art of Mobile African Safaris
In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne chats with Zimbabwe-born safari guide, conservationist, and wildlife photographer Devon Jenkin. Devon shares stories from his adventurous upbringing in Africa, how a childhood surrounded by nature and camping experiences led him into wildlife photography, and his progression from camp management to guiding photographic safaris in Botswana. He discusses his immersive, holistic approach to safaris, emphasizing connecting with nature and understanding animal behavior for both richer experiences and better photographs. Devon also talks about his deepening commitment to conservation, supporting projects like the BioBoundary Project in Botswana, and how he uses his photography to raise awareness and funds for wildlife protection. The episode provides a fascinating look at the intersection of storytelling, conservation, and the personal connection to wild places through photography.
Watch on YouTube
Links and Resources:
Devon Jenkin
Luminar Neo - Use the code MATT10 for a discount!
Support the show on Patreon
Okavango Guiding School / African Guide Academy
Botswana Predator Conservation Trust (BioBoundary Project)
Photographers Mentioned on the Podcast:
Hannes Lochner; Steven Stockhall; Daniel Crous; Guts Swanepoel; and Sabine Stols
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445: Chris Fulcher & Savannah Woods - Creative Partnerships and Pyro Portraits
In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with creative duo Chris Fulcher and Savannah Woods, whose striking photography blends art, storytelling, travel, and editorial imagery. The conversation delves into their evolution from hands-on photographers to creative directors running a full media agency, their dynamic as a couple collaborating on projects, and the inventive use of lighting, fire, and AI/Photoshop in their bold, cinematic work. Chris and Savannah discuss how they navigate creative conflict, support each other both professionally and personally, and maintain balance while often living on the road. The episode features behind-the-scenes stories of their most unique shoots—including proposals, editorial campaigns, and elaborate light-painting photography—while offering insight into the technical and creative decisions shaping their vibrant, larger-than-life images.
Watch on YouTube
Resources and Links:
Sensorio Field of Light (Paso Robles, CA)
TeamLab
WPPI – Wedding & Portrait Photographers International
Sin City Creative Group
Support the show on Patreon
Referenced Artists and Shows:
Jack Studios (Jacqueline at Jack Studios, Connecticut)
Rifstick Boogie (Instagram)
Anima (DJ)
Las Vegas Sphere
Severance (Apple TV)
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444: Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove - Photographing Iceland's Volcanoes
In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne chats with Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove, a Belgian-born, Iceland-based landscape and nature photographer renowned for his dramatic imagery of Iceland's volcanoes and highlands. Jeroen describes how photographing his first volcanic eruption reignited his creative passion and profoundly shaped his approach to storytelling and visual art, emphasizing authentic experiences, patience, and the emotional connection to the landscape over chasing social media validation. The conversation explores the ethical challenges of drone photography, the dangers of rapidly growing photo tourism in Iceland, the importance of safety and legal compliance for workshop leaders, and lessons learned from self-publishing his successful book "New Earth." Jeroen also shares practical advice for visiting Iceland, his views on AI and manipulation in photography, the value of meaningful struggle, and recommendations for other inspiring photographers to follow.
Watch on YouTube
Resources & Links:
Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove
Nigel Danson
Andy Mumford
Marco Di Marco
FLM Tripods (use code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off)
Printique (affiliate link)
Printique Review Video
Support the show on Patreon
Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove's Book "New Earth" - Discount code VOLCANOLOVE for 20% off
Jeroen & Nigel Danson Drone Photography Course- Discount code FSTOP30 gives you 30% off
NLPA (Natural Landscape Photography Awards)
Icelandic Professional Photography Association
Red Cross (Iceland)
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443: Arild Heitmann – Creative Evolution and Embracing Change in Photography
In this "Artists Asking Artists" episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, hosts Matt Payne and Brie Stockwell sit down with renowned Norwegian landscape photographer Arild Heitmann. Arild discusses his evolution as a photographer, sharing insights into his creative process, the influence of his upbringing in Northern Norway, and his passion for moody, atmospheric imagery. He opens up about balancing a busy workshop business with personal projects, embracing both challenges in the wild and in adapting new photographic techniques like analog and infrared. The conversation explores the impact of tourism on iconic natural locations, the challenge of staying fresh creatively, and Arild’s philosophy on pushing boundaries and following instinct rather than repeating formulas. With stories ranging from frostbite-inducing adventures to the joys of failing and surprising oneself artistically, this episode is packed with humor, inspiration, and advice for anyone looking to deepen their photographic journey.
Watch on YouTube
Resources & Links:
Arild Heitmann
Lofoten Tours
Support the show on Patreon
Wild Woman Photography (Brie Stockwell)
FLM Tripods (use code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off)
Vincent Munier
Antony Spencer
Joe Cornish
John Barclay
Ragnar Axelsson ("RAX")
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.