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")
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1:32:09
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1:32:09
442: Kalee Isbell - How to Make Video a Powerful Tool for Connection
In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with filmmaker and video editor Kalee Isbell to explore how video can be a transformative tool for memory-keeping, creativity, and connection. Kalee shares her journey from using video as a form of self-care during postpartum depression to founding Isbell Family Films, a business devoted to helping people turn their everyday moments into meaningful stories. The conversation dives into practical tips for capturing more intentional, creative video content, the emotional rewards of embracing imperfection, and the value of recording even seemingly mundane moments. Kalee also discusses the importance of organization, shares heartwarming client stories, and inspires photographers to consider how video can deepen both personal legacy and the storytelling power of their work.
Resources Mentioned on the Podcast:
Order a Printique Book | Watch my Printique Review Video
Support the podcast on Patreon
One Second Everyday App
Filming Life Academy
Leave a review for the podcast on Apple Podcasts
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1:09:32
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1:09:32
441: Casey Fatchett - The Nerdy Photographer on Creating Timeless Images
In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne sits down with photographer Casey Fatchett, who shares insights from his 25-year career capturing weddings, portraits, and events. Casey reveals how his background in acting and stand-up comedy has influenced his approach to connecting authentically with clients and disarming tense situations, especially as an introvert. He emphasizes the importance of emotional content, authenticity, and staying true to one's unique photographic voice rather than chasing trends or external validation. The episode also touches on the challenges of curating timeless images, the value of constructive feedback, and building a personal style rooted in genuine human connection. Casey also discusses his own podcast, "The Nerdy Photographer," which dives into the thought processes behind great photography.
Resources Mentioned on the Podcast:
Support the show on Patreon
The Nerdy Photographer Podcast
Printique Review Video / Order a Printique Book
Support Matt Payne's Book on Kickstarter
NPN, WPPI, Wedding Photography Journalist Association, ASMP
Photographers Mentioned: Dimitry Mak, Phil Penman, Jonny Edward
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1:15:14
440: Maria Ruggieri - Creative Play & Connection with Nature
In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne talks with Maria Ruggieri, a retired cancer biologist and accomplished photographer with a passion for abstract and detail-oriented nature photography. Maria shares how her scientific background informs her creative vision, and discusses how nature serves as a safe, restorative space—her “church”—especially in retirement. The conversation explores the importance of playfulness, curiosity, and intuition in the creative process, and how sharing her work is about joy and connection rather than external validation. Maria also reflects on developing a personal website to chart her artistic journey, her balanced approach to not chasing perfection, and offers advice for embracing creativity later in life. The episode wraps up with Maria recommending several inspiring nature photographers for listeners to check out.
Resources Mentioned:
Maria Ruggieri on Instagram
Matt Payne’s new book: The Colorado Way
Support the podcast via Patreon
Photographers mentioned - Lena Bruce, Kevin Chawla, César Llaneza, Andrew Mielzynski, Krister Berg
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439: Lucia Rollow - Building Community in the Darkroom
In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with Lucia Rollow, founder of the Bushwick Community Darkroom in Brooklyn, New York. Lucia shares how her personal need for a darkroom evolved into a thriving communal space that fosters creativity, collaboration, and real-world connection in an increasingly digital world. The conversation explores the therapeutic and social aspects of analog photography, how community spaces like hers combat loneliness and bring people together, and the ups and downs of running such a unique business for nearly 15 years. Lucia also delves into the challenges of sustaining a creative community, the importance of shared passion, and offers advice for anyone wanting to build similar spaces or incorporate analog processes into their photography. Throughout, she highlights the value of hands-on, in-person interactions for creative growth and meaningful human connection.
Links and Resources:
1. Bushwick Community Darkroom
2. Lucia Rollow's FLM Tripods (use the code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off)
4. Penumbra Foundation (Antique/Alternative Process Workshops)
5. Midwest Center for Photography (Open Calls)
6. Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam—on the importance of social Capital and community in modern life (Affiliate Link)
7. Print LHC, a high-end digital printing lab in Brooklyn led by Lacey Wethersbee
8. Film Camera Recommendation: Pentax K1000 (perfect for beginners and landscape / analog enthusiasts)
9. OK McCausland
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.