F-Stop Collaborate and Listen - A Photography Podcast

Episode 486 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen features Darren Pellegrino, a Boston photographer known for headshots and his new project, the Monochrome Collective. Darren Pellegrino discusses the challenge of balancing profitable commercial work with personally meaningful projects, sharing how building a community around black and white photography has provided fresh creative energy. They address industry shifts, including the rise of AI headshots and finding purpose beyond financial success. The episode also covers Darren Pellegrino's book "The Monochrome Triangle," which emphasizes light, composition, and story as foundations for compelling black and white images. The conversation is honest about career longevity, creative fulfillment, and what it takes to build something sustainable in today’s changing photography world.

Resources and Links Discussed

Muench Workshops Giveaway

Darren Pellegrino

Monochrome Collective

The Monochrome Triangle Book (use code Triangle30 for 30% off the eBook)

Foto App

The Colorado Way book

Support the show on Patreon

LensWork

Natural Landscape Photography Awards

Episode 485 features photographer Nevada Wier, an expert in infrared (IR) photography. We discuss the technical and creative aspects of shooting in IR, including camera and lens choices, scene selection, and the heavy post-processing required, especially for vibrant 590nm images. Nevada shares how her adventurous background and transition from black-and-white to color inspired her IR work and emphasizes the importance of understanding both light and color for compelling images. The episode also touches on balancing creative passion with professional demands and why IR photography can rejuvenate artistic vision for those feeling stagnant.

Resources and Links Mentioned:

Muench Workshops Giveaway

Primer on Infrared Photography

Nevada Wier

Support the show on Patreon

Santa Fe Workshops

Obscura Gallery (Santa Fe)

Kolari Vision (infrared filters and conversions)

Infrared Diffraction Calculator

George Nobechi

Eddie Soloway

Adobe DNG Profile Editor

Asian Travel Photography Tropes – Bonus Episode (Patreon)

Episode 484 features legendary Yellowstone photographer Tom Murphy. We explore how Murphy’s ranching and anthropology background shapes his unique style and storytelling. Murphy shares advice on pursuing personal passion, observing nature deeply, and building a body of meaningful work. He emphasizes photographing wildlife in context, not just what an animal is, but who it is, and discusses the evolution of photographic technology, staying creatively engaged, and tips for strong composition. Murphy also stresses the value of giving back through conservation-focused photography and urges photographers to immerse themselves in places they love.


Resources:

Muench Workshops Giveaway

Support the show on Patreon

Tom Murphy

Tom Murphy's Books

Muench Workshops

Buffalo Bill Center of the West

Postage Stamp News

In episode 483 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down in person with aerial photographer Scott McCook at the end of a photography tour through Western Australia. Known for his abstract aerial images capturing both the region’s dramatic coastlines and its vast mining infrastructure, Scott McCook discusses his journey to aerial photography, balancing a career in construction, and the unique, often unseen perspectives offered from above. The conversation explores the dichotomy between the beauty and environmental toll of Western Australia’s mining operations, including the vibrant yet toxic tailing ponds, and the impact this industry has on Aboriginal communities. Scott McCook shares how his work straddles the line between art and documentary, aiming to spark curiosity and dialogue rather than delivering pointed messages.

Links and Resources:

Muench Workshops Giveaway

Scott McCook's Website

Scott on Instagram

Muench Workshops

Rio Tinto's Destruction of Juukan Gorge

Tom Putt (photographer recommended)

Support the show on Patreon

Episode 482 features Rick Bebbington, a UK-based photographer, discussing how personal growth and life experiences deeply impact creative work. The conversation focused on overcoming common blocks like perfectionism and imposter syndrome by letting go of expectations, shifting away from external comparisons, and embracing photography as a fulfilling, evolving process, rather than a pursuit of perfection or gear. A key theme that emerged was the importance of introspection and being open to new subjects, with practical advice on how photographers can get unstuck and find renewed creative purpose.


Resources and Links:

Muench Workshops Giveaway

Rick Bebbington

The Colorado Way book

Support the show on Patreon

Muench Workshops

Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Ikigai (concept overview)

Rachel Bixby

Dani Connor

Bonus Episode on the Magic Sweater