Panoramic Film Photography | John Shephard

For episode 497 of F-Stop Collaborate and Listen, host Matt Payne welcomes panoramic film photographer John Shephard of Woodinville, Washington. Over a thirty-year journey, John Shephard has photographed the breadth of his home state using the Noblex swing lens and Hasselblad XPan II, predominantly with Velvia 50 film. He recounts his roots as a photographer and teacher, the influence of a place-based life and field companions outside photography, and formative years assisting Australian legend Ken Duncan.

The conversation explores technical challenges and artistic rewards of panoramic film, comparing Noblex and XPan systems, composition strategies, and problems unique to swing-lens cameras. John Shephard shares insights on embracing unpredictability, learning from field failures, and evolving as a photographer through patience, persistence, and a willingness to experiment. Both John Shephard and Matt Payne discuss research methods—maps, satellite, and fieldwork—as well as the joy and importance of exploration.

A highlight of the episode is John Shephard's new book "Washington Wide," featuring panoramic images and a foreword by Colville elder Randy Lewis. They discuss the value of indigenous perspectives and the significance of storytelling in both image and place.

Links and Resources:

1. Get a copy of the Muench Workshops Destinations Magazine
2. John Shephard
3. John's Book, Washington Wide Use code FSTOP for 10% off, free continental US shipping
4. Ken Duncan
5. Leo Meier
6. Atlas Obscura
7. Gaia GPS
8. Google Earth
9. Copernicus Satellite Imagery
10. Support the show on Patreon
11. Matt Payne Photography

00:00 Show Intro 00:23 Meet John Shephard 01:45 Teaching & Place-rooted Photography 06:33 Falling for Panoramic Film 13:47 Noblex vs XPan Systems 22:14 Digital vs Film Panoramas 26:00 Experimentation & Change 35:39 Learning from Non-photographers 41:02 Patience & Letting Go in the Field 47:04 Research, Maps, and Google Earth 55:17 Iconic vs Unknown Subjects 1:04:20 "Washington Wide" Book Process 1:18:22 Bookmaking Reflections 1:21:32 Guest Recommendations 1:23:22 Wrap Up