422: Zoe Hiljemark - Public Relations and SEO for Photographers

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

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne talks with the team behind the Horizons Photography Conference, including guests Martha Montiel, Nic Stover, and Shanda Akin. They discuss the unique aspects of this new photography conference taking place in Durango, Colorado, emphasizing the importance of in-person connections in a digital-heavy world. The event is designed to foster community and creativity among photographers of all levels. The team highlights the thoughtful selection of speakers, including both seasoned names and emerging voices, who are set to bring fresh perspectives to attendees. They also touch on the logistical challenges of conference planning and how they’ve crafted an experience that’s both affordable and inspiring. If you’re interested in attending, they offer a special discount for podcast listeners. The episode promises insights into creating genuine photographic connections and the value of being physically present in such environments. Watch on YouTube Links Discussed: Horizons Photography Conference (use code PAYNE100) Horizons Speakers Nic Stover's Nature Photography Classes Shanda Akin Martha Montiel

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne talks with Arizona-based photographer and conservation advocate Ashley Petefish, known as "Ashley Goes Hiking" on Instagram and Threads. They explore the intersection of photography, public lands, and conservation ethics. Ashley shares her journey growing up in Arizona, deeply rooted in its landscapes, which fueled her passion for protecting these areas. They discuss the commodification of public lands through social media, the ethics of geotagging, and respecting indigenous lands. Ashley highlights her work with organizations like the Oak Creek Watershed Council and suggests practical ways photographers can contribute to conservation efforts, challenging influencers to leverage their platforms for positive environmental impact. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SQzFGaLppD8 Links: 1. Ashley Petefish on Instagram 2. Arizona Site Steward Foundation 3. Oak Creek Watershed Council 4. Visit Bend 5. Wayne Suggs' Rock Art Photography 6. Muench Workshops 7. Matt's Print Course 8. Support the Podcast on Patreon

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne chats with photographer Mark Handy, who made the significant decision to step away from landscape photography. Mark, who once ran a successful gallery and traveled extensively for his work, now focuses on family and a career in private equity. They discuss Mark's journey from photography to his new path, touching on the reasons for his departure such as the impact of travel on his family and some harsh lessons he learned, like dealing with gallery embezzlement. Mark opens up about missing the camaraderie with fellow photographers rather than photography itself, shedding light on the real-life challenges faced by photographers. This episode offers an honest perspective on the passion, sacrifices, and changes involved in redefining success beyond the camera. Resources/Links: Mark's 1st recording on the podcast Aaron Feinberg's episode on the podcast FLM Tripods / Matt's Tripod - CP30-L4 II - use code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off thru Oct 1, 2025! Support the Podcast on Patreon

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne sits down with Andrew Cameron, a photographer with a diverse background in theater, video production, and documentary photography. Andrew shares his journey from directing corporate videos to pursuing his passion for documentary photography, focusing on impactful stories from industrial, social, and humanitarian sectors. They delve into the challenges and changes in the creative industry, discussing the democratization of creativity by tech companies and the role of photography in addressing social issues. Andrew emphasizes the importance of storytelling in photography using a simple model of "know, feel, do" to create compelling narratives, and he sheds light on balancing creative passion with sustainability. The episode also explores the impact of social media, the evolving landscape of documentary work, and Andrew’s efforts in coaching and writing to support his artistic endeavors. Links & Resources: Andrew's book, Making Documentary Photography Arthelper Support the podcast on Patreon Matt's Print Course on Patreon Photographer's Mentioned - Jose Sarmento Matos; Nick Danzinger

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne speaks with Guido van de Water, a Dutch landscape photographer and YouTuber. Guido shares his transformative journey from a career in the automotive industry to becoming a full-time content creator after being diagnosed with a severe medical condition. The conversation delves into how photography became a means of healing and finding purpose for Guido, emphasizing resilience and creativity. He discusses his approach of not pre-planning images and his focus on capturing unique visions in mundane landscapes, largely using telephoto lenses. The episode also explores Guido's YouTube channel's growth, which began as a legacy project for his children and has evolved into a supportive community space connecting with others who face similar personal challenges. Links Mentioned: Check out Guido's YouTube Channel Arthelper Support the podcast on Patreon Matt's Print Course on Patreon Photographers Mentioned: Will Goodlet, Christian Irmler

In this episode of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne interviews Zoe Hiljemark, a PR and marketing strategist specializing in helping photographers. They discuss the importance of PR, SEO, and blogging in building a photographer's brand and attracting clients. Zoe emphasizes the changing landscape due to algorithm updates and AI-generated content, and she outlines common PR mistakes photographers make, such as being too broad in their media approaches. She also shares insights on how SEO is crucial for online visibility and talks about how PR can complement blogging to enhance a photography business. Zoe provides actionable steps for photographers to boost their marketing efforts and improve their online presence. Resources/Links: Support the Podcast on Patreon Learn more about Zoe's PR Services Arthelper SERanking Matt's Print Course

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne interviews storm and landscape photographer Greg McCown, delving into his passion for capturing epic desert storms and lightning. Greg, who balances photography with a career in real estate, discusses his meticulous approach to storm chasing, which involves extensive location scouting and using multiple cameras to maximize capture opportunities. The conversation covers Greg's strategies for teaching storm photography workshops, his experiences with weather patterns, and his use of technology like lightning triggers, his expert camera settings for lightning, and he shares personal stories that highlight the excitement and unpredictability of storm photography. Watch on YouTube Resources / Links: Support the Podcast on Patreon GAIA GPS Pivotal Weather Radar Scope: Apple / Android Satsquatch FLM Tripods | Matt's Tripod Recommendation - use code HOUSEOFPAYNE for 10% off thru Oct 1, 2025! Stepping Stone Lightning Trigger Sony A1-2 Nikon D850  Storm Photo Tours Recommended Photographers: John Sirlin, Sean Parker, Danilo Faria, Donna Ruthruff, Lori Bailey

In this episode of "F-Stop Collaborate and Listen," host Matt Payne sits down with accomplished photographer Greg Vaughn to discuss his journey in photography, ethics in location sharing, and the nuances of workshop teaching. Vaughn, known for his photography guidebooks on Oregon and Washington, talks about how he chooses locations carefully to preserve sensitive environments. They also explore challenges like maintaining a balance between publicizing beautiful places and preventing environmental degradation. Vaughn shares insights from his career, which spans over four decades, emphasizing the importance of business skills in photography and the value of having a love for teaching when leading workshops. Check out the episode on YouTube Resources Mentioned: Greg's books - Photographing Oregon & Photographing Washington Muench Workshops - please email me if you're interested in joining me! NANPA Arthelper Support the podcast on Patreon Photographers Recommended: Dewitt Jones, Laurent Martres, Tom Kirkendall Greg is a photographer, traveler, writer, and photo educator. During his 40+ years as a full-time pro, Greg has worked in multiple photographic genres, including years as a freelance commercial and editorial assignment photographer in Hawaii. He was the campaign photographer for two of Hawaii’s governors and was the official photographer of the Ironman Triathlon in Kona. Greg is a proud alumnus of the University of Hawaii, earning a degree in Zoology at the advent of the 1970’s Ecology movement.    Greg is now based in Eugene, Oregon. He and his wife/partner/soulmate Penelope love living in the Pacific Northwest, travel as much as possible, and especially enjoy exploring Mexico.    Greg’s photos have been published by National Geographic, Backpacker, Sierra Club, Audubon, The Nature Conservancy, Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, and many other travel, conservation, and lifestyle magazines and websites.