In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne chats with photographer Geoffrey Giebelhaus about the Fediverse—a decentralized network of social media platforms like Mastodon and PixelFed that offer an alternative to the algorithm-driven, ad-heavy giants like Instagram and Facebook. Geoffrey breaks down what the Fediverse is, how it works, and why it's a great fit for photographers seeking a more ethical, community-focused space to share their work. The conversation covers the learning curve of moving to decentralized platforms, the importance of hashtags and alt text, tips for getting started, and how the Fediverse empowers users to keep their followers and content, no matter where they go. They also touch on the deeper creativity and connections fostered by this new social media landscape, and close with Geoffrey’s advocacy for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada. If you’re fed up with mainstream social media and want to learn about a more authentic and user-driven alternative, this episode is for you.

Links:

1. Geoff's awesome blog about the Fediverse
2. Support the podcast on Patreon
3. Join my newsletter
4. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne sits down with Margot Raggett, founder of the Remembering Wildlife book series, to discuss her journey from PR professional to wildlife photographer and conservationist. Margot shares how a heartbreaking encounter with a poached elephant inspired her to launch a collaborative photography project that has since rallied over 280 top wildlife photographers and raised more than $1.5 million for conservation. The conversation dives into the complexities of wildlife conservation, including poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and the importance of supporting local communities and education initiatives. Margot also addresses the ethics of wildlife photography and over tourism, and explains how the Remembering Wildlife series both raises crucial funds and spreads awareness for endangered species around the world. The episode wraps up with a look ahead to the series' tenth book, highlighting pangolins, and practical advice for photographers who want to make a positive difference through their work.

Links Discussed

• Remembering Wildlife Books
• Jonathan and Angela Scott
• FLM Tripods (use code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off through October 1, 2025)
• Support the Podcast on Patreon

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with acclaimed sports photographer Carrie Giordano, one of the team photographers for the LA Dodgers and LA Rams. Carrie shares her fascinating journey from falling in love with photography in her Ohio childhood, through early burnout, to discovering her passion for sports photography in Los Angeles. She discusses the unique challenges, adrenaline, and emotional highs of photographing high-stakes professional sporting events like the World Series and championship parades, as well as the technical and logistical demands of the fast-paced environment. Carrie also highlights how her background in landscape photography shapes her creative vision, offers practical career advice for aspiring sports photographers, and opens up about balancing the demands of career and motherhood. Watch on YouTube Links:

• Carrie Giordano on Instagram
• Mountain Light by Galen Rowell
• Moab Photography Symposium
• Carrie's Feature in Time Magazine for Kids
• My OnLandscape Article on Torsten Pull
• Support the podcast on Patreon