In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne sits down with photographer Casey Fatchett, who shares insights from his 25-year career capturing weddings, portraits, and events. Casey reveals how his background in acting and stand-up comedy has influenced his approach to connecting authentically with clients and disarming tense situations, especially as an introvert. He emphasizes the importance of emotional content, authenticity, and staying true to one's unique photographic voice rather than chasing trends or external validation. The episode also touches on the challenges of curating timeless images, the value of constructive feedback, and building a personal style rooted in genuine human connection. Casey also discusses his own podcast, "The Nerdy Photographer," which dives into the thought processes behind great photography.

Resources Mentioned on the Podcast:

• Support the show on Patreon
• The Nerdy Photographer Podcast
• Printique Review Video / Order a Printique Book
• Support Matt Payne's Book on Kickstarter
• NPN, WPPI, Wedding Photography Journalist Association, ASMP
• Photographers Mentioned: Dimitry Mak, Phil Penman, Jonny Edward

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne talks with Maria Ruggieri, a retired cancer biologist and accomplished photographer with a passion for abstract and detail-oriented nature photography. Maria shares how her scientific background informs her creative vision, and discusses how nature serves as a safe, restorative space—her “church”—especially in retirement. The conversation explores the importance of playfulness, curiosity, and intuition in the creative process, and how sharing her work is about joy and connection rather than external validation. Maria also reflects on developing a personal website to chart her artistic journey, her balanced approach to not chasing perfection, and offers advice for embracing creativity later in life. The episode wraps up with Maria recommending several inspiring nature photographers for listeners to check out.

Resources Mentioned:

• Maria Ruggieri on Instagram
• Matt Payne’s new book: The Colorado Way
• Support the podcast via Patreon
• Photographers mentioned - Lena Bruce, Kevin Chawla, César Llaneza, Andrew Mielzynski, Krister Berg

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne talks with Lucia Rollow, founder of the Bushwick Community Darkroom in Brooklyn, New York. Lucia shares how her personal need for a darkroom evolved into a thriving communal space that fosters creativity, collaboration, and real-world connection in an increasingly digital world. The conversation explores the therapeutic and social aspects of analog photography, how community spaces like hers combat loneliness and bring people together, and the ups and downs of running such a unique business for nearly 15 years. Lucia also delves into the challenges of sustaining a creative community, the importance of shared passion, and offers advice for anyone wanting to build similar spaces or incorporate analog processes into their photography. Throughout, she highlights the value of hands-on, in-person interactions for creative growth and meaningful human connection. Links and Resources: 1. Bushwick Community Darkroom

2. Lucia Rollow's FLM Tripods (use the code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off)

4. Penumbra Foundation (Antique/Alternative Process Workshops)

5. Midwest Center for Photography (Open Calls)

6. Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam—on the importance of social Capital and community in modern life (Affiliate Link)

7. Print LHC, a high-end digital printing lab in Brooklyn led by Lacey Wethersbee

8. Film Camera Recommendation: Pentax K1000 (perfect for beginners and landscape / analog enthusiasts)

9. OK McCausland