F-Stop Collaborate and Listen

318: Jason Pettit - A Unique Style for Distillation and Expression

Development of a unique style in nature photography is something most of us strive for in our quests as photographers of the landscape. Sometimes it is hard to put into words what that even means or looks like, and there are a plethora of variables that impact one's unique style.
On today's podcast episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with one of my favorite Canadian nature photographers, Jason Pettit, about his journey and approach to the craft, including his approach for distillation of subject, which I found to be quite interesting. Sit back, relax, and enjoy our chat!
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Jason's journey into photography.
What life is like in Prince Edward County, where Jason lives and grew up.
Using photography as a vehicle for self-discovery and therapy.
Why we choose nature photography over something else.
Our evolution as photographers.
Identification of a unique style and what even means in nature photography.
Distillation of subjects for maximum impact.
Making home a lifelong photography project.
Jason's earliest and current influences.
How Jason copes as a nature photographer who is color blind.
And a lot more!
If you enjoyed our chat, we did a whole bonus episode on Patreon where Jason and I pontificate the ramifications of AI on nature photography.
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
My article in On Landscape on Jason Pettit.
The Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
My Print Lab Review Article and Video.
LensWork #161 & The Plateau of Despair.
Eliot Porter - Intimate Landscapes.
Galen Rowell - Mountain Light.
Watch podcast episodes on YouTube, where we overlay photos with our conversation via video.
Here is who Jason recommended on the podcast this week:
Paul Wakefield.
Alexey Korolyov.
Donna Doyle.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

317: Les Walkling - The Professor of Fine Art Printing

Printing our landscape and nature photographs can bring a lot of joy and can provide tremendous opportunities for making money from your artwork. There's a lot to decipher before you start. What paper do you use? How do you calibrate your monitor? Why are my prints so dark?
Fortunately, resources exist to make this process easier for you to figure out.
As such, I was excited to record this week's podcast! On today's episode, I sat down with the legendary Australian print-maker and fine art educator, Les Walkling. Dr. Walkling has devoted his life to the arts, and taught contemporary fine art photography and history at RMIT University for many years. He is perhaps more well-known in the landscape photography community for his excellent YouTube videos that compare and contrast various fine art papers for printing. On today's podcast we talk about his research, how to evaluate and choose a fine art paper, and tips for monitor calibration.
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Watch podcast episodes on YouTube.
Essays & Notes from our Les Walking's website:
Words
Calibrating
The Joy and Despair of Becoming a Photographer
Digital Print Categories and Characteristics
Paper Classifications
Introduction to Monitor Calibration
Matching Prints to Screen
Lighting Theory
Why Les Walkling & Co. Pty Ltd Bespoke Printer Profiles?
My Emotional Theory of Aspect Ratios
My Emotional Theory of Print Size
Peter Dombrovskis - Journeys into the Wild
Videos from Les Walkling's YouTube Channel
Evaluating Files Before Printing
Advanced Soft Proofing Monitor Calibration
Advanced Soft Proofing Monitor Addendum
The New Canson Infinity Inkjet Papers
An Aesthetic Evaluation of Fine Art Inkjet Papers
Brush Work
Education & Services
Workshops (Live and interactive via Zoom)
Consultations (Online)
Production Services (including remote Bespoke Printer Profiling)
Here is who Les recommended on the podcast this week:
Tony Hewitt
Peter Eastway
Adam Katseff
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

316: Richard Martin - Tools for More Creative Photography

Photography is one of the most accessible artforms that exists and acts as a creative outlet and tool for personal expression for so many of us. Unfortunately, tapping into that creativity and modes of personal expression in photography doesn't always come naturally for all of us. Fortunately, there are techniques and strategies that exist to help us get there.
On today's episode, I finally was able to speak with one of the most inspiring Canadian photographers of our time, Richard Martin. Richard is a creative powerhouse and I just love his approach to making images. Our conversation covers a huge plethora of topics revolving around his creative approaches for making images and there is a lot of actionable advice in today's episode, so I highly encourage you to listen all the way to the end.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Richard's journey into photography.
How growing up in the Thousand Island region near Lake Ontario informed Richard's interest in nature.
How photography evolved into a vehicle for personal expression for Richard.
Richard's philosophical approach to making images in the field.
Keys to creative development in photography.
Comparing our work to others.
Balancing creative ruts with our creative and business needs.
The importance of restoring our amateur status.
Why we should question everything we know about photography.
The role of ambiguity in photography.
And a lot more!
If you enjoyed our chat, we did a whole bonus episode on Patreon where Richard and I discuss perfectionism in landscape photography and how it relates to Wabi Sabi! See Richard's gallery on Wabi Sabi here.
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
The Creation by Ernst Haas.
Eric Bennett critique groups.
Watch podcast episodes on YouTube.
Landscape Photographer's Worldwide Discord Server.
Here is who Richard recommended on the podcast this week:
Stephen Patterson.
Andre Gallant.
Mike Grandmaison.
Maurice Henri.
Tony Sweet.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Richard's social media:InstagramVeroFacebook
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

315: Lizzie Shepherd - Re-finding Your Mojo in Landscape Photography

It happens to the best of us - we lose our mojo in landscape photography and can't figure out how to find it again. Fortunately there is a simple cure for this...
In this week's podcast episode, I had a fantastic time speaking with one of my favorite UK landscape photographers, Lizzie Shepherd. We eventually do discuss losing our mojo but we also talk about how this is actually not a bad thing. Our chat covers a lot of important ground and it was a true delight speaking with Lizzie about her approach to making images. I highly recommend this podcast.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Lizzie's journey into photography.
Going a long time without taking images and how to get back into it.
Cross-country skiing in Norway.
Why Scotland is one of Lizzie's favorite places to photograph.
Our role as photographers in protecting and promoting nature.
Using social media as a photographer.
Approaches to teaching workshops.
Intimate vs. grand scenic approaches to making images.
And a lot more!
If you enjoyed our chat, we did a whole bonus episode on Patreon about print sales in the UK and our approaches to open vs. limited edition prints.
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Watch podcast episodes on YouTube.
Landscape Photographer's Worldwide Discord Server.
Here is who Lizzie recommended on the podcast this week:
Alex Hare.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
Please see our full show notes to see some of Lizzie's fantastic photography!

314: Angela Ledyard - Creating a Community for Black Female Landscape Photographers

Finding our people is something I think we all strive for. For some of us, this is easy and for others, it can be quite difficult. In the landscape and nature photography community, there are well-established cliques of people who photograph together frequently, often comprised of white men. Why this is the case has always been a mystery to me; however, I genuinely always want to put myself in the shoes of others who are not like me to understand what it is like to live like them.
This week I had the pleasure of hanging out and chatting with Angela Ledyard. Angela is a landscape photographer living in Texas, originally from Ohio. She recently created a group called the Black Female Landscape & Nature Photographers, which has become a prominent community and beacon for African American nature photographers. It was awesome hearing her story and to hear about why and how she created the group. I think you'll enjoy our chat.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Angela's journey into photography.
Why Angela has chosen nature photography as her medium.
Why and how Angela created the Black Female Landscape & Nature Photographers community.
The challenges of being a black female in the landscape photography realm.
What Angela's goals are with her photography.
How moving from Ohio to California changed how she saw nature as a photographer.
Angela's 5-day trip to Peru and what it was like for her to photograph there.
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Watch podcast episodes on YouTube.
Here is who Angela recommended on the podcast this week:
Keisha Holmes.
David Greaves.
Allison Holmes.
James Bland.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
Scroll down to see more of Angela's photography.

313: TJ Thorne - Ebb & Flow

Using 2019 data, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 14.2 million adults over the age of 18 had a severe depressive episode in the past year, and 14.4 million struggled with alcohol abuse disorder in the past year. Clearly, both alcoholism and depression are quite prevalent in our society and it is something a lot of people struggle with. Finding ways to cope with these ubiquitous challenges can be crucial for the survival of so many of us, and nature photography is one such way that has been shown to help. 
As such, it was a real honor recording a podcast with TJ Thorne, who first joined us way back on Episode 22! TJ has been battling both depression and alcoholism for quite a long time and he has found nature photography to be one way that he is able to fight back. In this episode, TJ and I talk about this journey and his relationship with the subject of water specifically, which is the focus of his new book.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
TJ's journey into photography.
How working in the food industry began to shape TJ's struggles with addiction.
TJ's struggles with addiction and depression and how nature photography has helped him.
TJ's inaugural book, Ebb & Flow.
The role that water has played in TJ's photographic journey.
TJ's search for emotional and mental freedom through photography.
How TJ's friendships with other photographers have aided him.
TJ's process for curating images for his book.
How tangible photography projects like a book differ from digital formats.
Using photography as a tool to intimately explore the world instead of using it to "take photographs."
How and why TJ has made the switch over to photographing more abstract subjects as opposed to grand scenic images.
And a lot more!
If you enjoyed our conversation, you can catch our bonus episode on Patreon where TJ and I discuss his struggles having photography be his main way of making money when it is so intertwined with his mental health. 
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
The Invisible Gorilla Experiment.
Watch podcast episodes on YouTube.
Here is who TJ recommended on the podcast this week:
Juame Llorens.
Jo Stephen.
Nel Talen.
Mike DiMeola.
Cesar Llaneza.
Michele Sons (we recorded on E306).
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

312: Alfredo Mora - Unlocking Creativity Through Experimentation

One of the best ways to differentiate ourselves as photographers is to fully engage in the creative process. As such, one sure-fire path to making more creative work is to experiment. Experimentation can help to unlock creativity and help us create more interesting work. 
Since experimentation is something I think we can all learn more about, I was excited to record a podcast with one of my favorite photographers here in Colorado, Alfredo Mora. Alfredo works full-time supporting the NASA program and takes some absolutely splendid images, largely using experimental techniques. He placed third in the 2nd year of the Natural Landscape Photography Awards and has always impressed me with his modesty and level-headedness.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
How Alfredo got into photography.
How Alfredo's background in architectural photography has helped him as a nature photographer.
How Alfredo's cultural background has influenced his path and approach to making images.
How Alfredo is able to balance a full-time job supporting NASA launches, a family, and his photographic pursuits.
The importance of taking risks as a photographer.
How Alfredo experiments with Intentional Camera Movement (ICM), multiple exposures, and Photoshop blend modes to create unique images.
How Alfredo's approach to making images has shifted from results-driven to experience-driven.
The differences between being inspired and copying other people's photographs.
Processes for releasing images to the public.
Photography competitions.
Writing and moderating the critique group for Nature Photographer's Network (NPN).
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Alfredo's article on his ICM blending techniques.
Jon Norris - Joshua Tree workshops.
Emily McCulliss' Storyboard.
Watch podcast episodes on YouTube.
Here is who Alfredo recommended on the podcast this week:
David Ward.
Michael Frye.
Kevin Monahan.
Klaus Axelsen.
Jason Pettit.
Kristin Weinhold.
Elvis Dallie.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

311: Matt Oliver - Landscape Photography from the UK Peak District

Living close to our favorite photography destinations is a luxury that not everyone can afford; however, it has become a big part of my success in my own photography and I know it contributes to the success of others' work as well. Our relationship to place and how that connection fuels us and energizes our creativity can have a huge impact on the quality of our work.
This week I had the pleasure of speaking to United Kingdom photographer, Matt Oliver. Matt makes his living as a commercial photographer but his true passion lies in landscape and nature photography. I have always been a big fan of his quiet work from the Peak District in the United Kingdom, so I was excited to talk to him about his connection to that place and how it was forged. 
On this week's episode, we discuss:
How Matt got into photography.
How Matt juggles his commercial photography with his landscape photography.
How important it has been for Matt to live close to the Peak District.
Advice for photographers that don't live close to their favorite areas.
The role of curiosity in Matt's photography.
The role of style in Matt's photography.
Chasing the light versus photographing smaller scenes.
What to do when the conditions are not ideal.
The impact of AI on Matt's commercial photography.
The differences between the UK and the USA in terms of how photography is monetized.
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Matt's commercial photography site.
My article on NPN about AI and photography.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Here is who Matt recommended on the podcast this week:
Angelo Jesus.
Vanda Ralevska.
Lizzie Shepherd.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
Scroll down to see more of Matt's photography.

310: Julien Parrot - How Moving to a New Country Changed My Photography

Moving to a new country can be an incredibly daunting proposition, especially in the current geo-political environment; however, it can also open up doors to new experiences, cultures, and landscapes. 
This week I had the pleasure of speaking with Julien Parrot - a photographer from France now living in Australia. Julien and I talked about how moving to a new country has completely changed his outlook and approach to photography.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
How Julien got into photography.
How moving to a new country has re-shaped his photography.
How he has adapted to living abroad as a photographer.
How not doubting his photographer stunted his growth as an artist.
How confidence can be a double-edged sword.
How to objectively critique our own work.
How photography competitions have helped him in his growth as a photographer.
His approach to photographing fireflies.
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Here is who Julien recommended on the podcast this week:
Michael Ciccone.
Anton Gorlin.
Sylvain Lepoutre.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

309: Viktoria Haack - Why Generalists Triumph in Photography

Most photographers are given the advice to specialize in something in order to make it as a photographer. On the surface, this seems to make sense as it allows one to become an expert and to become known for one thing; however, it might not be the best advice to follow, especially if you live in a smaller town.
This week I had the pleasure of speaking with Viktoria Haack - a photographer living in Salmon Arm, British Columbia. Viktoria has chosen not to specialize in any one form of photography and has instead chosen to see herself as a generalist, which has done wonders for her photography career.
On this week's episode of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen Podcast, we discuss:
How Viktoria fell in love with photography while living on a 300-acre island for ten years.
How living on an island helped Viktoria hone in on what types of subjects interest her as a photographer.
How social media has played a role in her progression as a photographer.
How Viktoria uses social media now to advance her business offerings.
How Viktoria has chosen to be a generalist and how that has worked for her.
How photographing people has helped Viktoria round out her business.
The idea of gardening not architecture.
Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World.
Viktoria's approach to making photographs.
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Viktoria's workshop offerings.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Here is who Viktoria recommended on the podcast this week:
Jo Stephen.
Monika Deviat.
Hans Gunnar Aslaksen.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

308: Shane Turgeon - How Nature Photography Saved My Life

It is no secret that spending time in nature is good for your mental health. Time and time again, through conversations on my podcast, I learn about the role that nature photography has played in helping people battle depression, anxiety, and life's challenges. This week I had an amazing time talking about photography with Shane Turgeon, who credits his discovery of nature photography for saving his life. Learn about Shane's journey into photography and the steps he took to leverage it to improve his personal outcomes after a series of unfortunate life events left him reeling. 
On this week's episode, we discuss:
How Shane discovered his passion for photography.
How nature photography saved Shane's life.
How others who are struggling with mental health challenges can leverage nature photography to improve their mental health.
How curiosity plays a central role in curating personal happiness.
Shane's strategies for staying happy as a photographer.
How bringing his dog with him on his photography trips makes them more enjoyable.
The Light Chasers Photography Conference that Shane has created in Canada.
The challenges and logistics of creating a photography conference.
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
If you enjoyed our conversation on the podcast, you can listen to a bonus episode on Patreon where Shane and I talk all about time management and our mutual abilities to accomplish a lot on little time.
Here is who Shane recommended on the podcast this week:
Vickoria Haack.
Mark Jinks.
Dave Brosha.
Curtis Jones.
Nat Gillis.
Jason Pettit.
Richard Martin.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

307: AI and Photography - A Panel Discussion

One of the hottest topics to emerge in 2023 as it relates to landscape photography is the advent of Artificial Intelligence or AI. AI has swept the world by storm and is changing so rapidly that the one-month gap between when I recorded this podcast and when it was released probably saw huge shifts in the capabilities of AI and the challenges that have emerged in the U.S. legal system. AI presents photographers with multiple challenges and opportunities and in this panel discussion on the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast, we examine it all in depth.
Meet our panel for AI and Photography:
Arka Chatterjee - a photographer, artist, and intellectual property lawyer.
Diana Nicholette Jeon - a photographer and artist using AI as a tool to make art.
Tim Parkin - Editor of OnLandscape Magazine.
Bruce Couch - a photographer and outspoken critic of AI.
On this week's episode, we cover a lot of ground about AI and Photography:
A comprehensive analysis on how AI image creation works and whether or not AI uses our photographs to make new artwork.
The various types of AI systems, including Generative Adversarial Networks and Stable Diffusion.
Discovering whether or not your photographs have been used to train AI networks.
What excites, frustrates, or angers photographers about the emergence of AI in the photography space.
How photographers can differentiate themselves from AI.
Ethical considerations for using AI image making systems as a photographer.
What makes a photograph a photograph and whether or not an AI generated image constitutes a photograph.
Comprehensive analysis on the legal ramifications of AI and copyright, both relating to the AI creations and the photographs that have been used to generate them.
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Read Tim Parkin's article on AI in his magazine, OnLandscape. Listeners can get 15% off an OnLandscape subscription by using the code FSTOP15.
Join me on Nature Photographer's Network for an amazing photography experience. Use the code FSTOP10 for 10% off your membership.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Watch the podcast on YouTube.
Have I Been Trained website.
Obama Hope - AP Photographer case.
Thaler AI case.
Kashtanova - Zendaya Graphic Novel AI Case.
Getty Images AI - Stable Diffusion Case.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
If you got something from listening to this week's show, please support the podcast in any way you can!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.

306: Michele Sons - Photographing the Magic of Appalachia

One of the most under-appreciated photography locations in the United States is Appalachia, a region that stretches from Alabama in the south to New York in the north. Appalachia is not home to towering mountains, arid deserts, or epic displays of geology; however, a skilled photographer who takes care to connect with this place is able to create fantastic photographs that are personally expressive and evocative.
Today's guest on episode 306 of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen Podcast, Michele Sons, is one such photographer. Her attention to detail and personal connection to Appalachia, fog, and geographic peculiarities has given her photography a voice in the crowded space of nature and landscape photography.
Michele has come to specialize in quiet, contemplative images of the Appalachian region and beyond. She has worked with National Geographic for years on their Beautiful Landscapes calendars, and other clients of hers include The Wilderness Society, Great Smoky Mountains Association, Eastern National, Gladstone Media, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
If you want to learn how Michele is able to make stunning images of this seemingly less-than-iconic location, then you have come to the right place.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Michele's 111-page e-book, Riversong, all about the New River Gorge in Fayetteville, West Virginia (Use the code FSTOP20 for 20% off).
Michele's personal connection to place and how she goes about making images that are connective in this way.
Michele's approaches to making images from less than iconic destinations.
How photography has served Michele in a healing capacity.
How Michele's mental health has shifted since she took up photography full-time.
Michele's strategies and challenges for monetization as a full-time photographer.
How knowing yourself can lead to better photographs.
Michele's "The Feminine Landscape" project.
Our mutual obsession with fog.
And a lot more!
If you enjoyed our conversation, you can catch our bonus episode on Patreon where Michele and I discuss her strategies for using lead magnets to increase her mailing list.
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me on Nature Photographer's Network for an amazing photography experience. Use the code FSTOP10 for 10% off your membership.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Watch the podcast on YouTube.
Here is who Michele recommended on the podcast this week:
Derek von Briesen.
Sam Krisch.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
Scroll down to see more of Michele's fantastic Appalachia photography!

305: Walid Azami - Pricing Your Photography

One of the most frequent question I see other photographers asking is "how much should I charge for my services or prints?" Pricing your photography can be tricky, no matter what genre of photography you are engaged with. As such, it was awesome to have a conversation with this week's guest on Episode 305 of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast.This week I had a blast speaking with Walid Azami. Walid is a photographer and commercial director living in Los Angeles and originally from Kabul, Afghanistan. He photographs celebrities, commercial products, and a lot more while offering his services as a coach and mentor to other photographers relating to business practices and pricing.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Similarities between landscape photography and other genres as it relates to pricing and monetization.
The biggest mistakes photographers make in relation to pricing their photography.
Determining when monetization is worth pursuing.
Strategies for pricing your artwork and services.
Dealing with customers that low-ball you.
How to differentiate yourself as a photographer in the crowded marketplace we find ourselves in.
Advice for how to start thinking monetization of your work.
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
AirBnB Experiences.
Walid's Course.
Walid's website for photographers.
Walid on YouTube.
Here is who Walid recommended on the podcast this week:
Sean Tucker.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

304: Hank Erdmann - Improving Your Nature Photography Through the Use of the Five Senses

Finding actionable tips to improve our nature and landscape photography can often be hard to come by in today's noisy environment where catchy and click-bait titles on YouTube dominate the day; however, there are still ways to find these tips. A great place to find them of course is right here on the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast! This week I had a wonderful time chatting with long-time photographer Hank Erdmann, who shared with us some great tips for finding compositions in nature that might not seem obvious. 
On this week's episode, we discuss:
How Hank got into photography,
Hank's process for finding images through the use of the five senses,
Using artistic sensory perception to create better photographs,
Practical tips for people that say they are not artistic,
A discussion on "what is art" in photography,
Defining art,
The differences between representative photographs and artistic photographs,
Hank's role with NANPA,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Brooks Jensen's Ask Me Anything on NPN.
My article on Art in Nature Photography on NPN.
Guy Tal's article on Mindfulness in Nature Photography on NPN.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Here is who Hank recommended on the podcast this week:
Willard Clay.
David Ward.
Craig Blacklock.
Did you know we are also now showcasing our episodes in video format on YouTube? It's a great way to see the conversation unfold while seeing images shared by our guests or images that we discuss. I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

303: Sigfrido Zimmermann - An Ecologist’s Take on Nature Photography

This week I had an amazing time chatting it up with one of my favorite photographers - Sigfrido Zimmermann. Sigfrido is an ecologist for his day job and an fantastic nature photographer in his spare time. He combines his knowledge of ecological processes to make some really stunning images, which is what we talk about in this week's show, at length.
Sigfrido and I had a wonderful conversation and started out with a lot of background on his area of scientific research, which I think will help you later on if you stay tuned!
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Sigfrido's journey into nature photography,
Sigfrido's area of scientific research as an ecologist,
Why Sigfrido makes images,
The connection between Sigfrido's scientific research and his photography,
How non-scientists can leverage science to make better photographs,
Working in projects as a photographer,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me for a Muench Workshop at White Pocket - June 6-11, 2023.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
William Neill's book: The Photographer's Portfolio Development Workshop.
Theo Bosboom's article in OnLandscape on Project Based Work.
Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Here is who Sigfrido recommended on the podcast this week:
Alfredo Mora.
Hans Gunnar Aslaksen.
Jason Pettit.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

302: Joe Cornish & Alex Nail - Artists asking Artists #5

Ever since I created my landscape and nature photography podcast, there was one person from the United Kingdom that I have always wanted to have as a guest - Joe Cornish.
Fortunately, my friend Alex Nail asked if he could interview Joe and I was beyond thrilled at the suggestion. Joe is an inspiration to so many landscape photographers, so it was a true pleasure hearing him answer our tough questions. As such, it was a great honor to have him join us for our 302nd episode of the podcast, and the 5th iteration of our "Artists Asking Artists" series.
Joe's approach to composition and field craft are quite renowned and appreciated by photographers across the world, so it was so amazing hearing him discuss practical ways in which he approaches the making of his images.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Joe Cornish's approaches to making landscape photographs,
Perfectionism in landscape photography,
Complexity in composition in landscape photography,
Qualities of light and Joe's preferences for light,
Various discussion around color hue shifts in digital cameras,
Reconciling our carbon footprint while travelling great distances,
Adding value to the world as a photographer,
Comparing and contrasting landscape photographers from the United Kingdom and the United States,
The influence of painters on landscape photographers,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Joe's article over on OnLandscape.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
Please see our full listing of show notes and links for more information!
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

301: Exploring Antarctica

For many landscape and nature photographers, Antarctica is a dream location to visit and photograph. What's not to appreciate about it? It has incredible wildlife that has no fear of humans, making them quite easy to photograph. It has towering landscapes that are untouched by man. It has massive icebergs that float in the sea ice in dramatic and contrasting color and light.
I was incredibly lucky to join the Muench Workshops team as an instructor to Antarctica back at the start of December and even luckier to be able to sit down and record a podcast while on board the Sea Spirit with the Poseidon Expedition Team, a delightful group of experts in their own areas of expertise, including biology, logistics, and photography. I was joined by John "Flipper" Suta, our Zodiac driver and logistics expert, Piet van  den Bemd, the Expedition photographer, and Tomas Marina, a biologist and researcher on climate change.
It was an amazing experience to witness and photograph towering mountains, exuberant Penguins, Humpback Whales, Orcas, Seals, and incredible light while teaching photography, something I'm deeply passionate about.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
What makes Antarctica one of the most special locations on Earth for landscape photography.
What a trip to Antarctica is really like.
What one can expect from a trip to Antarctica.
How studying and learning about different sciences can help your photography in Antarctica.
The impacts of climate change on Antarctica.
The impacts of tourism on climate change and protection of the Antarctic continent.
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Join the Muench Workshops Team for a trip to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctica.
Join the Muench Workshops Team for a trip to Antarctica on board the Sea Spirit.
See the full show notes and some of my photographs from Antarctica.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

300: Marc Adamus

I created this podcast in April, 2017. The first thing I did was to create a list of interesting and inspirational photographers I wanted to talk with on my podcast, and one of the first names I added to that list was Marc Adamus.
Marc probably does not need an introduction for most of our listeners; however, it is safe to say that he has become a modern icon in the landscape photography community. His style of photography has inspired and propelled many other photographers, including myself. Marc's influence popularized the fantastical and dreamy look that has become mainstream over the past decade, much to the chagrin of old school practitioners and the excitement of up-and-coming digital artists. It is safe to say that Marc single-handedly revolutionized landscape photography as we know it.
As such, it was a great honor to have him join us for our 300th episode of the podcast, and the 4th iteration of our "Artists Asking Artists" series.
I am incredibly thankful for my friend Rajesh Jyothiswaran, who joined me on today's special episode with Marc. Rajesh recruited Marc for this podcast episode and I'm so happy he was able to!
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Marc's childhood and how he found himself in landscape photography,
Marc's obsession with weather maps,
How Marc has pushed the artform of landscape photography,
Marc's various travel experiences and the story of how he severely injured himself on a glacier,
How Marc identifies new places to photograph,
Safety and security concerns in the areas he photographs,
Logistics involved in his exotic workshop offerings,
How Galen Rowell was an inspiration to him,
Marc's home life and relationship with his wife and son,
How and why Marc edits his photographs the way he does,
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and landscape photography,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Here is who Marc recommended on the podcast this week:
Ignacio Palacios.
Panos Laskarakis.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

299: Mieke Boynton - Aerial Photography is [not] a Cheat Code!

Aerial Nature and Landscape Photography is often viewed by more traditional landscape photographers as somewhat of a cheat code for making surprising images; however, I don't think this is necessarily the case. Capturing interesting, compelling, and thought-provoking images from the air still requires a great deal of artistic talent, technical talent, and perfect execution, especially when photographed from an airplane.This week on the podcast I was joined by Aussie nature photographer and aerial specialist, Mieke Boynton (pronounced Mee-ka), who has an incredible passion for aerial photography. You may recognize Mieke's name from last week's episode with her partner, Matt Palmer. They co-manage a gallery together in Bright, Australia. Mieke was also the winner of the Natural Landscape Photography Awards Abstract and Details category with an evocative, elegant, and thought-provoking aerial photograph that will absolutely astonish you. Mieke and I cover such a fun variety of subjects this week, including her passion for an area called the Kimberley, which is an area of Australia that has deep Aboriginal roots, which we discuss at length.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Mieke's journey into photography,
The story behind how Mieke and Matt Palmer met and become Australia's photography power couple,
Why Mieke has chosen to open a gallery in her small home town of Bright, Australia, population 2,600,
Mieke's connection to the Kimberley Region,
Mieke's desire to share the cultures of the Aboriginal people with her audience,
Advice for others seeking a connection with place,
Tips and stories about aerial nature and landscape photography,
Why Mieke doesn't believe that aerial photography is cheating,
Mieke's stance on processing her images,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Matt & Mieke's Gallery, Alpine Light.
Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Join us on Patreon for our fun bonus conversation where Mieke tells us about her history as a competitive athlete and making it to the Olympic games, and how competition drives each of us in different ways.
Here is who Mieke recommended on the podcast this week:
Viktoria Haack.
Tania Malkin.
Jordan Cantelo.
Paul Hoelen.
Ricardo Da Cunha.
Chris Saunders.
Tony Hewitt.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

298: Matt Palmer - 2019 Australian Photographer of the Year

It is often the ultimate dream for nature and landscape photographers to open and run their own gallery and doing so is often filled with a heap of questions that don't always have easy answers. Talking about these realities with photographers that have already gone down this path is one way to learn more about it before investing tens of thousands of dollars on your own gallery opening.
This week on the podcast I was joined by Aussie photographer Matt Palmer. Matt was the Australian Professional Photographer of the Year in 2019 and won the Natural Landscape Photography Awards Project in 2021. Before entering the landscape scene, Matt previously photographed in commercial, portrait, wedding, sporting and music genres. Matt was documenting some of the world's biggest musicians such as Metallica, Pearl Jam, TOOL, Nick Cave, Joan Jett and hundreds more. His work is usually instilled with a strong sense of justice and spans several genres. He lives in Bright, Australia, where he runs a gallery with his partner, Mieke Boynton. Matt and I had a great chat covering a wide variety of subjects, so sit back, relax, and enjoy our conversation.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Matt's journey into landscape photography,
Matt's rough childhood and how it shaped him as a photographer,
Photographing in projects,
Choosing and submitting photographs and projects to competitions,
Judging competitions,
How to handle negativity,
Running a landscape photography gallery,
Business models for galleries,
Pricing work for a gallery,
Matt's YouTube channel, Matt Talks Photography,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the code "FSTOP10" for a 10% discount!
Matt & Mieke's Gallery, Alpine Light.
Wirestock.
Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Join us on Patreon for our bonus conversation where Matt and I discuss Visual Hierarchies and composition.
Here is who Matt recommended on the podcast this week:
Mieke Boynton.
Paul Hoelen.
Ricardo Da Cunha.
Chris Saunders.
Tony Hewitt.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

297: Nick Becker - What Neuroscience Tells Us About Creativity

Creativity is a subject that rightfully gets a ton of attention in the nature and landscape photography community. Making seemingly "creative" photographs is a high bar that we set for ourselves as photographers and artists; however, it can be a nebulous descriptor that is difficult to define. As such, it is often discussed without giving it proper thought or consideration as to what it actually means to "be creative," or to create something that demonstrates "creativity."
This week on episode 297 of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast, I was joined by a landscape photographer living in St. Louis, Missouri, Nick Becker. Nick is someone who continually writes thoughtful articles that I have greatly enjoyed over the years and his photography is quite contemplative and enjoyable to look at, so I thought he would make for an excellent guest on the podcast. Nick and I talk quite extensively about creativity and neuroscience that supports various theories on creativity, so sick back and enjoy our conversation.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Creativity!
Why Nick makes photographs,
How becoming a new dad has influenced Nick's thought processes as a photographer,
How Nick's background as a computer scientist has impacted his photography and vice versa,
Nick's article, "What Neuroscience Tells Us About Creativity and How to Use It To Our Advantage,"
The Two models of creativity,
How to make creative nature and landscape photographs,
Nick's article, "The Experience is Everything,"
Nick's software called, ColorTools - and his tutorial for using it,
Roger Beaty’s article that discusses idea generation/evaluation model of creativity,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Guy Tal's article, "On Artistic Usefulness."
Sign up for Nick's newsletter.
Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Join us on Patreon for our bonus conversation about the importance of photographing areas close to home, and Nick's project showcasing his growth as a photographer.
Here is who Nick recommended on the podcast this week:
Paulo Valdivia.
Michael Forsberg.
Donna Doyle.
Adam Bolyard.
Saikat Chakraborty.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

296: Ethical Considerations for Wildlife Photography - Pam Dorner & Jennifer Leigh Warner

Ethics is a subject that often gets a bad reputation in photography circles. People that discuss ethics are often wrongly seen as sanctimonious and elitist, when in fact, ethical considerations are really at the core of what makes us human. Ethics is an often misunderstood subject; however, it is paramount for us as nature photographers to be mindful of ethics when in the field. As this great article from Santa Clara University suggests, "ethics is based on well-founded standards of right and wrong that prescribe what humans ought to do, usually in terms of rights, obligations, benefits to society, fairness, or specific virtues." As it relates to wildlife photography, ethics can provide us with guiding principles to protect our subjects and to remain true to our personal values as photographers. 
This week on the podcast I was joined by two amazingly talented wildlife and nature photographers, Pam Dorner and Jennifer Leigh Warner to discuss ethics in wildlife photography. This topic is one that is near and dear to me and I hope you enjoy both Pam and Jennifer's thoughtful responses to my questions relating to the challenges we face regarding wildlife photography and ethics.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
The contrast between landscape photography and wildlife photography,
Our personal feelings about ethics in wildlife photography and why they are of import,
Personal rules for ethical behavior as wildlife photographers,
Respecting wildlife and wild places,
Bear jams - what they are, and the pros and cons of them,
The problems with using live bait in "wildlife photography,"
How to properly define wildlife photography and the problem with photographing captive animals,
Spotting fake wildlife photographs,
The importance of honesty in wildlife photography,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network. Use the code FSTOP10 for 10% off!
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Nature First.
NANPA Ethics.
Article about Pam & Nature Photographer of the Year.
Winning image in Nature Photographer of the Year.
Here is who Pam and Jennifer recommended on the podcast this week:
Betsy Botsford.
Alyce Bender.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
Scroll down to see more of Pam and Jennifer's photography.

295: Jay Rasmussen - Finding Success with Art Fairs

One of the best ways to monetize nature and landscape photography is to sell it at regional art shows across the U.S. Entering these art shows can either leave a photographer wildly rich or bankrupt, and the difference between the two is not very large. Fortunately, there are actionable steps that can be taken in order to maximize your success in selling your work at art fairs & art shows.
This week on the podcast I had a great time speaking with Jay Rasmussen, a photographer from Minnesota. Jay is a retired college professor where he spent 30 years training other teachers. Jay is relatively new in the photography scene but has found wild success selling his work at art fairs. In this week's show, we talk about Jay's entrance into photography, how he arrived at selling his work so quickly, tips for other photographers looking to monetize their work, and some excellent discussion and practical insight relating to teaching photography.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
How Jay found himself as a photographer,
How to decide which art fairs to apply for,
How much to invest in selling your photography at art fairs,
What kind of photography sells at art shows,
Staying true to yourself as an artist selling at art shows,
Tips for teaching photography to students,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Art Fair Sourcebook.
Join us on Patreon for our bonus conversation where Jay talks about using a growth mindset as a photographer.
Here is who Jay recommended on the podcast this week:
David Barthel.
Steve Wewerka.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.See the full show notes here.

294: Ilan Shacham - Photographing Israel & the Challenge of Monetization

One of the most common questions I hear from other photographers is, "how can I monetize my photography?" It's a complicated question with many valid answers. Most importantly, it's crucial for photographers to understand some of the complex underpinnings, psychological challenges, ethical questions, and the impacts on creativity that often accompany monetization in landscape photography.
This week on the podcast I had an amazing time talking with Israeli Landscape Photographer Ilan Shacham. Ilan is one of those photographers that flies under the radar and when you see their work for the first time you'll ask yourself why you have never heard of them before! Ilan made the challenging transition to becoming a full-time photographer in 2017 and in today's episode we delve deep into monetization and internal conflicts that can arise relating to monetization.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Ilam's journey as a photographer,
Why Ilan made the leap to become a full-time photographer and how that impacted his work,
Ways in which monetization both helps and hinders his photography,
Ways to overcome the challenges of monetization,
Actionable ways to make money in landscape photography,
Educating the public on the challenges of making good images,
Photographing Israel as a landscape photographer,
The implications of AI and photography,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Ilan recommended on the podcast this week:
Michael Kenna.
Ian Bramham.
John Leech.
Alex Bazeos.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
Scroll down to see more of Ilan's excellent work!

293: Radomir Jakubowski - Think Like an Economist to Improve Your Photography

Learning about other subjects such as philosophy, psychology, economics, and geology can all make you a better photographer and also a better businessperson in your photography. I'm a strong advocate for cross-disciplinary study to make yourself a more well-rounded person, which I think makes you a better photographer.
As such, this week on the podcast I'm happy to introduce you to Radomir Jakubowski, a German landscape, nature, and wildlife photographer. Radomir has a huge collection of awesome images in his portfolio and lots of interesting ways to think about the world that I think may help you in your journey as a photographer.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Radomir's journey as a photographer,
How studying other subjects can benefit your photography,
How Radomir approached competitions early on in his career as a photographer,
How Radomir thinks like an economist to improve his photography and photography business,
Being a brand ambassador - how / why / what makes sense,
Why and how Radomir uses his images to protect Europe,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
If you enjoyed our chat, you can join us for a bonus episode on Patreon where we discuss ideas to making more evocative images for your portfolio.
Here is who Radomir recommended on the podcast this week:
Jan Wegener.
Stefan Forester.
Bence Mate.
Jasper Doest.
Zeitweise.
Audun Rickardsen.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

292: Alister Benn - Surrender Yourself to the Landscape

Finding ways to engage with nature and landscape photography in a way that goes beyond simply capturing the natural beauty of nature can be a huge challenge that a lot of photographers struggle with. While there's certainly nothing wrong with simply capturing beauty, some photographers wish to go further with their work and use it as a vehicle for personal expression or to say something about themselves through the photographs.
This week's guest on the podcast, Alister Benn, has coined his business expressive photography for a reason. He had an epiphany when photographing the Gobi Desert several years ago that completely changed the way he creates photographs. Ever since then, he's been sharing his approach with the world through his platform, Expressive Photography.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Alister's experience that facilitated his epiphany,
Actionable tips for creating personally expressive photographs,
The challenges and realities of running your own photography business,
Making tough choices as a business-person in photography,
Challenges with mental health and how photography can help others,
Alister's new book, Out of Darkness, how it was made, why it was made, and the challenges of making books in general,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
The Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
If you enjoyed our chat, you can join us for a bonus episode on Patreon where we discuss the importance and value of relationships as it relates to photography.
Here is who Alister recommended on the podcast this week:
Dorin Bofan.
Astrid Preisz.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

291: Jon Norris - Obsession with Joshua Tree National Park

Focusing on one geographic area has many tremendous advantages for nature and landscape photographers. It can provide familiarity with your subjects, light, times of day, and so much more which is often overlooked by most folks.
This week on Episode 291 of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast, I had a wonderful conversation with landscape photographer Jon Norris about his obsession with Joshua Tree National Park.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Jon's journey into nature photography,
How Jon developed a relationship with Joshua Tree,
How urban and abstract photography influenced his approach to making images,
His approach called "Explore, Experience, Create,"
How revisiting a location over and over again helps his approach to photography,
Recommendations for people that might get bored of a location,
How his career in Engineer influenced his photography,
Why he has decided to give back to organizations like Nature First,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
If you enjoyed our chat, you can join us for a bonus episode on Patreon where we discuss our Overlanding approach to making landscape and nature photographs.
Here is who Jon recommended on the podcast this week:
Chris Sale.
Steve Bennett.
Paul Cook.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!

290: Rich Rudow - Exploration of the Grand Canyon

Dedication to a single area in your landscape photography can yield incredible results and keep you immersed and engaged as a photographer for a lifetime. 
This week on Episode 290 of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast, I had a wonderful conversation with  landscape photographer and canyoner Rich Rudow about his adventures in the Grand Canyon in Arizona and how he has developed a life-long relationship with this spectacular place.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Rich's journey into nature photography,
Why Rich has chosen to focus on the Grand Canyon.
How Rich approaches photographing the Grand Canyon in a unique way.
Keeping his gear lightweight for his adventures.
Adventures gone wrong in the Grand Canyon.
The human threats to the Grand Canyon Wilderness.
Access issues for areas in the Grand Canyon including Tahatatso Point. 
Canyoneering adventures in the Grand Canyon.
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Into the Canyon Documentary.
Grand Canyoneering Book.
See our full show notes to see Rich's images and more. 
Join us on Patreon for our bonus conversation where Rich tells us about his experience traversing the Grand Canyon in 57 days.
Here is who Rich recommended on the podcast this week:
Dan Ransom.
Pete McBride.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

289: Artists Asking Artists #3 - Guy Tal & Alex Noriega

We are back with our third installment of the Artists Asking Artists Series on the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen Podcast. 
This week's podcast, Episode 289, features two of my favorite nature and landscape photographers, Guy Tal and Alex Noriega. When I first conceived of the idea of creating this series for the podcast, Guy and Alex were the first two photographers that came to my mind knowing that Guy has been such an inspiration to Alex and both of them have been such a huge inspiration to me. I honestly believe this might be one of my favorite episodes of the podcast ever recorded, so I think you will really enjoy it! Alex did a wonderful job coming up with questions for Guy and Guy was an amazingly humble and generous guest, as always. 
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Suffering, depression, and artistry,
Choosing to live close to nature,
The importance of confidence as photographers,
How Guy developed his connection to Utah,
Equivalence in nature photography,
Grand Landscapes and creativity,
Leaving a more meaningful life through photography,
The relationship of money and creativity,
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and landscape photography,
Perfectionism in landscape photography,
And a lot more!
Relevant links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
The Dark Side of Creativity book.
Books by Guy Tal (listeners get 10% off anything in Guy's store using the code FSTOP10).
Editing tutorials from Alex Noriega (Patreon supporters get 20% off by reaching out to Matt via Patreon).
Seeking Questions gallery on Guy's website.
The Whole Earth Catalog.
Desert Images Book by Edward Abbey and David Muench.
Here are the photographers that inspire both Guy and Alex (not an exhaustive list):
Michael Gordon.
Gregory Crewdson.
Edward Burtynsky.
Nick Brandt.
Charles Cramer.
William Neill.
Chris Burkett.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
See the full show notes on our website for more photographs and awesome info. 

288: Martin Gonzalez - Discovering the Little Surprises in Nature

Small scenes in nature photography are like finding little surprises to explore visually with the camera. They can lead to an enriching relationship with nature and photography and expand a photographer's appreciation for light, subjects, and field craft.
This week on Episode 288 of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast, I had a wonderful conversation with L.A. based photographer Martin Gonzalez. We discussed his attraction to smaller scenes, why he makes photos, how he balances his f/t job with photography, anxiety in photography, and so much more, so have some coffee, tea, or beer, and enjoy the chat.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Martin's journey into nature photography,
How Martin finds balance with his full-time job and photography,
Why Martin thinks he will stay away from full-time photography,
Anxiety and nature photography,
Martin's diagnosis of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and its impact on his photography,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Support the podcast on Patreon.
The impact of making fine art photos and memory.
Join us on Patreon for our bonus conversation on Martin's blog post entitled, "Invading Landscapes."
Here is who Martin recommended on the podcast this week:
Blake Simpson.
Paolo Valdivia.
Sigfrido Zimmerman.
Michael Kenny.
Saikat Chatraborty.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

287: Artists Asking Artists #2 - David Thompson & Candee Watson

Providing a platform for landscape and nature photographers to be able to engage with each other is one of the most amazing things that my podcast has afforded. As such, I developed the Artists Asking Artists Series and it was an honor facilitating our second installment!
This week on the podcast I was joined by co-host Candee Watson to discuss all things Landscape Photography with David Thompson.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
How David Thompson developed as a photographer,
Countless tips for photographers looking to improve,
How David balances his role as a father and husband with his photography,
Hilarious stories,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Eric Bennett's critique groups.
David Thompson's editing and photo critique services.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

286: Norman McCloskey - Staying True to Yourself in Nature Photography

It can be hard not to chase the latest trend in nature photography, whether that be social media trends, editing trends, locations, and more; however, today's guest on my podcast has managed to find a way to stay true to his roots while focusing on what he's good at.
This week on the podcast I was joined by Irish Landscape Photographer Norman McCloskey. Norman now owns and operates his own gallery and has published and sold many fine art books; however, his journey to get to this point was arduous and full of interesting bumps in the road. On today's show we explore this journey and discuss many related topics, so sit back and enjoy the conversation.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Norman's journey into nature photography,
Norman's relationship with nature and how it has changed his life,
How the book-making process has informed his image-making,
Imposter syndrome and how it held Norman back for many years,
The impact of full-time photography on his philosophy and photography,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Norman's Books.
Here is who Norman recommended on the podcast this week:
Joe Cornish.
Paul Wakefield.
Peter Gordon.
David McGee.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
Scroll down to see more of Norman's excellent work!

285: Karen Waller - Using Photography to Process Grief

Grief and the grieving process are an integral part of the human condition, yet so few of us have a solid grasp on how to engage in it or talk about it. I believe art and creativity can be a helpful gateway to help with this.
This week on the podcast I was joined by an Australian portrait and landscape photographer who uses her background in visual arts and painting to create stunning and evocative photographs - Karen Waller. In today's show we discuss Karen's journey in photography and how she has engaged in it to help with the grieving process.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Karen's journey into photography as a painter,
How engaging in photography helped her through the grieving process,
The driving forces behind her work,
Why she is attracted to making abstract imagery,
Capturing opposing themes,
Revealing something new in familiar subjects,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Karen recommended on the podcast this week:
Judith Nangala Crispin.
Meike Boynton.
Carol Mills Naronha.
Nic Duncan.
David Dahlenburg.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

284: Deirdre Rosenberg - In Defense of the American Pika

The American Pika is one of my favorite creatures found in the wilderness of Colorado. It is a small, adorable creature that is about 6 or 7 inches in length and is known for its high-pitch chirping sound and cute face. The American Pika primarily lives at high elevations between 10,000 and 14,000 feet and I often encounter them on my mountain climbing trips here in Colorado. They are unfortunately in severe danger of extinction due to climate change because they depend on cold winters to survive.
This week on the podcast I had a wonderful conversation with Deirdre Rosenberg, a wildlife, landscape, and conservation photographer living in Southwest Colorado who has dedicated her life to conservation efforts around the San Juan Mountains and for the American Pika.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Deirdre's journey as a photographer and her relationship with the wilderness,
The American Pika and Deidre's goals in photographing it,
Conservation photography and what it means to Deirdre,
Deirdre's project to photograph the San Juan Mountains of Colorado from a conservation perspective,
Deirdre's goals and approaches to photographing with a conservation intent,
Helping women get excited about wilderness photography,
"Honest Photography,"
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Deidre recommended on the podcast this week:
Gretchen Stuart.
Nate Luebbe.
If you enjoyed our conversation this week, you can listen to our bonus episode over Patreon on where we discuss Deidre's approaches to making her dreams come true as a full-time photographer.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

283: Valda Bailey - Unlocking Creativity with ICM & Multiple Exposure

This week on the podcast I had a wonderful conversation with Valda Bailey. Valda is a UK photographer specializing in intentional camera movement (ICM) and multiple exposure work, which she often combines as part of her workflow. It was great to hear about her creative process and techniques, which we covered extensively in this episode of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast!
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Valda's journey as a photographer and why she has gravitated towards ICM and double/multiple exposure image-making,
The role of abstraction in her photography,
Lots of practical advice on the techniques of ICM and multiple exposure, including equipment choice,
How to choose what to include and exclude in this type of work,
Conceptually-driven work,
Formalism in photographic art,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
My article on NPN about Nature Photography as Art.
Valda's Book, "We May as Well Dance."
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Valda recommended on the podcast this week:
Doug Chinnery.
Chris Friel.
Graham Cooke.
If you enjoyed our conversation this week, you can listen to our bonus episode over Patreon on where we discuss conceptually-based workshop learning vs. location-based workshop learning.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
Visit our show notes to see Valda's work!

282: Marsha Kirschbaum - An Appreciation of Dark Skies

Dark skies are an important part of the natural world and are paramount in the success of every night photographer that exists. As such, it was a fabulous honor to discuss an appreciation of dark skies, night photography, and many other subjects with the guest of this week's episode of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast.
This week on the podcast I had the pleasure of speaking with a fellow night photographer hailing from the great State of California, Marsha Kirschbaum.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Why Marsha has chosen to specialize in night photography,
How Marsha got her start in photography,
How night photography sparks curiosity in the natural world,
Light pollution's impact on dark skies and nature,
Safety and night photography,
Equipment for night photography,
Digital art and night photography,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Fenix Headlamp.
Sony A7R4.
International Dark Sky Association.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Marsha recommended on the podcast this week:
Jan Maguire.
Pam Dorner.
Becky Jaffe.
Nancy Wright.
Rick Whitacre.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
To see Marsha's work and a lot more, see the full show notes on our website. 

281: Eric Erlenbusch - Nature Photography as a Lifelong Pursuit

When nature photography is seen as an integral part of our life, it takes on new meaning and provides focus for our true goals with this artistic medium. As such, it was a fabulous honor to discuss this among many other topics with the guest of this week's episode of the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast. 
This week on the podcast I had the pleasure of talking with one of my favorite nature photographers out of Utah - Eric Erlenbusch.Eric and I had a wonderful conversation about his approach to making unique photographs, including stories about how he created three of his favorite photographs. We also talked about his experience working as the gallery director for Thomas Mangelsen.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
The process for making unique nature and landscape photographs,
Goals in our photography,
Defining success in our photography,
Jump-starting the creative process,
Stories about some of Eric's favorite images,
Eric's experience working with Thomas Mangelsen,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Eric's workshops and retreats.
Man's Search for Meaning book.
Topaz Internment Camp and Museum.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Eric recommended on the podcast this week:
Paulo Valdivia.
Thomas Mangelsen.
Prajit Ravindran.
If you enjoyed our conversation this week, you can listen to our bonus episode over Patreon on where Eric and I discuss practical tips he gained while learning as the gallery director for Thomas Mangelsen.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.
Scroll down to see more of Eric's work!

280: Alberto Rodriguez-Garcia - Psychedelics & Abstraction in Nature Photography

Nature and Landscape Photography can be a journey filled with introspection and is often positively augmented and influenced by various experiences we have in life. Discussing these experiences with other photographers brings me a lot of happiness, so I was excited to speak to this week's guest on my podcast about his experiences with psychedelics, reading books, and going on long personal journeys and how those experiences have influenced his work.
This week on the podcast I was joined by nature and landscape photographer who has chosen to specialize in abstract imagery, Alberto Rodriguez-Garcia.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
How reading Jack Kerouac influenced Alberto's desire to get into nature more,
Alberto and my experiences with psychedelics and how that has influenced his photography,
Alberto's passion for small scenes and abstract images and how that passion was developed,
The importance of critique in Alberto's growth,
Alberto's cross-country journey as a photographer,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Eric Bennett's critique groups referenced by Alberto.
My OnLandscape articles featuring photographers.
On the Road by Jack Kerouac.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Alberto recommended on the podcast this week:
Martin Gonzalez.
Sigfrido Zimmerman.
Nick Becker.
Alfredo Mora.
Richard Martin.
If you enjoyed our conversation this week, you can listen to our bonus episode over Patreon on where Alberto discusses how immigrating to the USA from Spain has influenced his photography.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
You can also find all of the show notes for the podcast on my blog, which includes lots of great photographs submitted by the guest(s).
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

279: Alex Vita - Designing a Photography Website

Building a photography website can be a complicated and time-consuming process and can end up costing you thousands upon thousands of dollars and countless hours of your precious time if you don't do it correctly.
As such, it was great to host a conversation this week on the F-Stop Collaborate and Listen podcast with photography website design expert, Alex Vita.
Alex helps photographers grow their photography business by helping them establish a stellar web presence. He has built over 200 websites for photographers from 25 countries. His clients are pro or semi-pro photographers selling licenses or photo-based products online (prints, calendars, books, workshops, photo tours, etc.).
On this week's episode, we discuss:
How Alex got into building websites for photographers,
Why photographers should want their own website,
What makes for a great photography website,
The biggest changes that have impacted photography websites,
File sizes and resolutions for photography websites,
Tools for image compression,
Common mistakes that photographers make on their websites,
How to differentiate yourself as a photographer through your website,
Tips on Search Engine Optimization (SEO),
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Give SE Ranking (the best SEO tool) a try.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Looking for the Website Comparison PDF I created? Here it is. 
Here is who Alex recommended on the podcast this week:
Ben Von Wong.
Andrew Hellmich.
Jeff Schultz.
f you enjoyed our conversation this week, you can listen to our bonus episode over Patreon on where we discuss the question of whether or not to list your prices on your website for your goods and services.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

278: Jeff Freestone - The Pursuit of Happiness Through Photography

Modern society has, for better or worse, influenced the adoption of wide-scale consumerism. This shift is relatively new for our species, and marketing experts have tapped into human psychology to maximize our desire to purchase and consume goods. This shift can also influence how and why we pursue happiness through consumption and trying to "keep up with the Joneses."
Today's guest on the podcast, Jeff Freestone, was influenced heavily by the Minimalists, a pair of podcasters and authors named Joshua Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus. This duo helps millions of people live meaningfully with less by encouraging a more minimalistic lifestyle.
By examining his own life, Jeff has been able to embrace nature photography's role in pursuing a more wholesome lifestyle that is less focused on consumption and more focused on enjoyment of nature.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
The influence of minimalism on Jeff's photography journey,
Finding meaning in life through nature photography,
Discovering and appreciating smaller scenes,
Photographing alone vs. with other people,
Tips for photographing alone,
How Jeff has found success in such a short amount of time,
Jeff's preference for photographing close to home,
Jeff's approach to social media,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network and use the discount code FSTOP10 for a 10% discount.
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
My articles on OnLandscape about some of the recommended guests and Jeff.
Here is who Jeff recommended on the podcast this week:
Paul Hoelen. 
Luke Tsarke.
Richard Martin.
Alfredo Mora.
Ron Coscorossa.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

277: Richard Boutwell - Photography as a Vehicle for Personal Growth

One of the best things about nature and landscape photography is that it can provide added purpose to our lives and improve us as human beings.
As such, it was an honor to speak with black and white photographer Richard Boutwell on this week's episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen.
Richard is an active participant in our Twitter after-parties for the podcast - he always has very interesting things to say and so I thought it would be awesome to have him join me on the podcast for a chat. We cover a lot of territory this week, including using photography as a vehicle for personal growth.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Richard's journey into photography,
Growing up near Joshua Tree National Park and how that influenced him,
His journey to the East Coast in 2002 to work for a large format fine art photographer,
Improving by studying the history of photography, and art history,
How engaging in photography has become a vehicle for personal growth for Richard,
Documentary work vs. fine art,
Working in projects,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Richard's Prints, Teaching, and Software - Use coupon code **FStopAndListen** for 20% off all software, workshops, private instruction, and prints.
Suggested readings for learning the history of photography:
Looking at Photographs.
Photographers on Photography.
Photography in Print.
Robert Adams - American Silence & Beauty in Photography.
Richard Benson - The World is Smarter than You Are & The Printed Picture.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Richard recommended on the podcast this week:
Richard's mentors, Paula Chamlee (and Michael A. Smith, 1942–2018).
Cody Cobb.
Linda Connor.
Mark Ruwedel.
Scott B. Davis.
If you enjoyed our conversation this week, you can listen to our bonus episode over Patreon on where we discuss alternatives to photo celibacy, a concept coined by Cole Thompson.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

276: Tim Baca - The Thrill of Storm Chasing

This week on the podcast I had the pleasure of speaking with storm and landscape photographer, Tim Baca.Tim was recommended to me by one of my favorite photographers and humans - Wayne Suggs and so I was quite excited to chat with him. I've also always been fascinated with storm chasing as it relates to photography and so it was great to chat with Tim about his experience and to hear him tell stories from the field.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Tim's journey into photography through storm chasing,
Storm chasing culture,
Safety in storm chasing,
Relationship challenges for storm chasers,
Composition tips for storm chasing,
And a lot more!
Other topics/links discussed on the podcast this week:
Miops Lightning Trigger.
Storm Prediction Outlook.
Radar Scope App.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Tim's Extreme Photo Workshops.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Tim recommended on the podcast this week:
Jake Werth.
David Turning.
Justin Snead.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

275: Joel Hazelton - Exploring Arizona

I have a deep respect for photographers who set out to do their own thing unabashedly. One such photographer is Joel Hazelton, who is widely known by his fellow Arizona landscape photographers as having one of the most prolific and unique Arizona portfolios around. As such, I was truly honored to host Joel on the podcast this week to discuss his journey into landscape photography and his approach for creating his unique images.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Joel's passion for the State of Arizona,
Joel's drive to get his work published in Arizona Highways Magazine,
Joel's favorite excursions into Arizona's backcountry,
Joel's methods for creating unique images,
The challenges and rewards of pre-visualization and planning,
And a lot more!
Other topics discussed on the podcast this week:
Join Gary Randall for a Caddo Lake workshop.
Arizona Highways Photoscapes.
Leave us a message on Podinbox!
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Joel recommended on the podcast this week:
Theresa Rose.
Jessica Morgan.
Jeff Kida.
If you enjoyed the conversation with Joel, you can find our bonus recording over on Patreon where we discuss the linkage between software engineering and photography, and Joel shares some stories from the field.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

274: Hans Strand & Eric Bennett - Artists Asking Artists Series - #1

Providing photographers a platform through which they can converse with one of their heroes is something I have wanted to try on my podcast for a long time.
Other artists can inspire us to become better photographers and to take risks with our work. Such is the case in our first installation of the "Artists Asking Artists" series of the "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen" Podcast.
This week, I invited Hans Strand back onto the show and I gave photographer Eric Bennett the opportunity to ask Hans any questions he wanted. I hope that you find this format interesting, as I hope to do more of these in the future. Please do let us know! Check out the full show notes, chock full of amazing images from both Hans and Eric!
On this week's episode, Eric asks Hans some great questions about his career, his photographic journey, his approach to making images, and a ton more. Topics include:
How the craft has changed since Hans started in the field,
Hans' approach to composition,
Hans' approach to making aerial images,
Advice for other photographers looking to go full-time,
The value of critique,
and a LOT more!
Other topics discussed on the podcast this week:
Eric's critique groups. 
Eric's tutorial and video series on Composition and Utilizing Light.
Hans' new book, Beyond Landscape.
Eric's book, Conversations with Nature.
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

273: Jeff Schewe - The Development of Photoshop and Lightroom

I personally think that knowledge about the history of our craft as photographers can be quite useful, if not fun to learn about. As such, it was really quite a blast to chat with this week's guest on my podcast, Jeff Schewe. 
Jeff was instrumental in the development of both Photoshop and Lightroom and is filled with knowledge about the history of how these two programs were developed. We had a great time talking about this and Jeff really knows his stuff, so I hope you have fun listening!
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Jeff's journey into photography,
Jeff's perspective on photography as someone who has been doing it since before most of us were born,
Jeff's commercial and advertising work,
The history of Lightroom and Photoshop, 
Jeff's recent foray into Fine Art Photography,
And a lot more!
Other topics discussed on the podcast this week:
The first 10 years of Photoshop.
The development history of Lightroom.
Making Tin-Type photographs. 
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Jeff recommended on the podcast this week:
Seth Resnik.
Kevin Raber.
Stephen Johnson.
Thomas Knoll.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

272: Andrew Baruffi - Overcoming Depression Through Nature Photography

According to a study in the Archives of General Psychiatry, nearly 1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year, and 46 percent of Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime in their life, and half of those people will develop conditions by the age of 14. Other studies have shown that engaging in nature photography can help those struggling with mental health challenges. 
As such, it was a true honor to sit down and chat with this week's guest on today's episode of my podcast, Andrew Baruffi. 
I actually learned about Andrew and his work after seeing his submissions to the Natural Landscape Photography Awards last year and since have followed him and his journey closely.
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Andrew's journey into photography as a way to cope with depression and suicidal ideation,
How Andrew's photography has changed over the years,
The book-making process,
And a lot more!
Other topics discussed on the podcast this week:
Purchase Andrew's book, Heal.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Andrew recommended on the podcast this week:
Eric Erlenbusch.
Loren Root.
Martin Gonzalez.
If you enjoyed the conversation with Andrew, you can find our bonus recording over on Patreon where we discuss his strategies for naming his photographs, which is something I know a lot of photographers struggle with a great deal!
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

271: Tristan Todd - Unlocking the Puzzle of the Forest

Photographing the forest can be one of the most challenging things a nature and landscape photographer can do, which is why I was super excited to chat with this week's guest on my podcast.
This week on the podcast, I was joined by Tristan Todd, a landscape photographer from Vancouver, British Columbia. I have become friends with Tristan through the Discord channel he created for landscape photographers. We have had some really great discussions over there that are not dependent upon the social media algorithms, and it has been a great place to hang-out. 
On this week's episode, we discuss:
Tristan's transition from the restaurant industry into full-time photography,
The challenges of forest photography,
The value of exploration,
Planning trips vs. planning shots,
Social media woes,
And a lot more!
Other topics discussed on the podcast this week:
Landscape Photographer's Worldwide Discord Channel.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
The Missing Cryptoqueen podcast.
Creative Banter podcast.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Tristan recommended on the podcast this week:
Blake Randall.
Artur Stanisz.
Cory Trepanier.
If you enjoyed the conversation with Tristan, you can join us for a fun bonus recording over on Patreon where we discuss NFT's and Cryptocurrency in a balanced way. 
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

270: Colin Sillerud - Mentorship, Workshops, and the American Southwest

Mentorship can be an important aspect to facilitate growth in nature photography. What kinds of workshops we choose to attend and the type of photographer we choose to learn from can also be instrumental in our growth process in photography.
This week on the podcast, I was joined by Colin Sillerud, a photographer living in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I have enjoyed Colin's photography for a long time so it was great to get to talk to him on the podcast. I've always found him to be very engaging, thoughtful, and kind. On today's show, we discuss the role of mentors in our photographic journey, approaches to teaching workshops, and so much more. So grab yourself a cup of coffee, a beer, or a nice wine, and enjoy the show.
On this week's episode, we also discuss:
Colin's journey into photography,
The role that mentorship played in Colin's development,
Colin's relationship with his father and how that impacted his photography,
Colin's approach to teaching workshops,
And a lot more!
Other topics discussed on the podcast this week:
Colin's workshops.
Enter the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Colin recommended on the podcast this week:
Jake Werth.
Laura Oppelt.
Matt Meisenheimer.
Jim Tang.
If you enjoyed the conversation with Colin, you can join us for a fun bonus recording over on Patreon where we discuss backcountry road adventures in the American Southwest and getting our vehicles into lots of precarious situations.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.

269: Theo Bosboom - Unique Nature Photos from the Netherlands

Creating unique nature photography is easier said than done. That's why I was excited for this week's podcast episode. 
This week on the podcast, I was joined by none other than Theo Bosboom. Theo's nature photography is widely regarded as being some of the best coming out of the Netherlands and so it was a real honor to get him onto the podcast. Our conversation dives deep into Theo's history and path into photography and how he is able to create unique and visually-complex images. 
On this week's episode, we also discuss:
Theo's journey into photography as a former lawyer,
How Theo approaches creating unique photographs,
How Theo manages to raise two children as a full-time photographer,
Why Theo has moved towards a preference for more intimate work,
Theo's project submission in the Natural Landscape Photography Awards,
And a lot more!
Other topics discussed on the podcast this week:
Pre-order Theo's book.
Theo is offering a discount on his "Shaped by the Sea" book using the discount code 'podcast'
Entering the Natural Landscape Photography Awards.
Join me over on Nature Photographer's Network.
NLPA Critique Session with Sandra Bartocha.
NLPA Critique Session with Alex Noriega.
Support the podcast on Patreon.
Here is who Theo recommended on the podcast this week:
Fortunato Gatto.
Stian Klo.
Trym Ivar Bergsmo.
Arild Heitmann.
Gheorghe Popa.
If you enjoyed the conversation with Theo, you can join us for a long bonus recording over on Patreon all about copyright. Since Theo is a former lawyer, I thought it might be great to talk to him about this particular topic in detail. For as little as $5 per month, you can support the podcast on Patreon and check out over 190 bonus episodes. For $10 a month you can get early access to our episodes.
I love hearing from the podcast listeners! Reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter if you'd like to be on the podcast or if you have an idea of a topic we can talk about. We also have an Instagram page, a Facebook Page, and a Facebook Group - so don't be shy!
Did you also know we have listener after-parties on Twitter Spaces? This is a great opportunity to interact with other listeners, guests, and the host (when I can) regarding your thoughts on the episode.
We also have a searchable transcript of every episode!
Thanks for stopping in, collaborating with us, and listening. See you next week.
P.S. you can also support the podcast by purchasing items through our B+H affiliate link.