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)
--------
50:00
--------
50:00
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
--------
1:20:36
--------
1:20:36
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
--------
43:59
--------
43:59
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
--------
1:00:13
--------
1:00:13
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)
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.