Almost in Focus

In this episode of Almost in Focus, Tom Warland and Tobias Beach-Wyld celebrate the people, places, and experiences that keep photography exciting. Tom begins with a chance street encounter in Russell Square, where he meets a self-taught Wing Chun practitioner who learned entirely from old YouTube videos. It becomes a reminder that stopping to speak with subjects can transform a fleeting street photo into a much richer story.The conversation then turns to Tom’s recent visit to see legendary photographer Joel Meyerowitz speak at UCL. The hosts discuss his warmth, humour, and stories about meeting Robert Frank, influencing William Eggleston, and even helping shape early versions of Adobe Photoshop. It sparks a wider chat about how valuable photographer talks can be—not just for learning technique, but for inspiration and perspective.Tom also reflects on rediscovering freedom in photography by shooting slower black-and-white film, embracing blur, shallow depth of field, and imperfection rather than chasing technical perfection. Tobias adds that many photographers lose their early spontaneity over time, and that reconnecting with that instinctive joy is one of the most rewarding parts of the craft.The episode continues with memories of talks and encounters with respected photographers including Chris Killip and Alex Soth, plus reflections on galleries, volunteering, and how being around exhibitions can shape the way photographers think about sequencing and presenting work.Finally, the hosts share upcoming projects, photo walks, and creative opportunities—including Tobias setting himself an eight-day daily photography challenge. A lively and funny episode about staying inspired, meeting people, and saying yes to photographic opportunities.Links & MentionsColour Hunt Photowalk in Londonhttps://www.photowalk.me/photowalk/colour-hunt-photowalkAlfie Cameras BOXXhttps://alfiecameras.com/Almost in Focus Podcast Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/almostinfocuspodcast/Almost in Focus Podcast YouTube (upcoming videos)https://www.youtube.com/@almostinfocuspodcastTomBobWarland YouTube (Latent Hour livestream darkroom)https://www.youtube.com/@TomBobWarlandSupport the PodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, please like, follow, comment, and share — it really helps more photographers discover the show.

Exploring Photographic Practice and Community: An Interview with Paul ClementsJoin us in this episode as we delve into the varied career ofphotographer and educator Paul Clements, exploring his journey from NHS operating theatre work to Journalistic and documentary photography, and his insights into photographic education, industry challenges, and the joy of film processing in unconventional settings.In this episode:Paul shares his transition from healthcare to photojournalism and academiaThe importance of research and contextual understanding in photographyThe evolution of the photography industry, including issues with funding, gatekeeping, and inclusivityThe significance of community, collaboration, and peer feedback in developing as a photographerPersonal anecdotes about contact sheet critiques and experimenting with film processing in pubsReflections on the beauty of imperfection and glitches in photographic imagesDiscussions on dangerous photos, ethical considerations, and the political role of photographyResources & Links:William Flusser - Towards the Philosophy of PhotographyEddie Van Viesel - The Edge of CivilizationRemedy Photo FestivalConnect with Paul:https://thebppa.com/author/paulclements/https://www.instagram.com/paulcclementshttps://www.instagram.com/stane_street

Join us for an insightful conversation with photographer Simon Roberts as we explore his creative process, major projects including Motherland and We English, including in his latest book After London. We also discuss his new Brighton-based community space, POST Creatives, and the importance of patience, play, and experimentation in photographic practice.In this episode, we talk about how Simon approaches landscape, scale, and perspective, how his work evolved to be more conceptual, and how ideas from earlier projects continue to develop, including in his latest book After London.Please show your support by giving the podcast a follow/subscribe.Key TopicsCreative process behind his workThe role of scale and perspective in landscapephotography Patience, timing, and observation inimage-making The development of POST community space inBrighton The value of play in creative practice LinksSimon Roberts — https://simonroberts.com/ POST Creatives (Brighton) — https://post-creatives.co.uk/Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/simonroberts/Tom’s new book: “Light Paper Time” – https://www.tombobwarland.com/light-paper-time

In this episode, Toby and Tom recap their trip to the NEC in Birmingham, sharing stories from a busy day exploring photography stands, filming on the go, and catching up withfriends from across the analogue and digital community. From travel mishaps and camera logistics to unexpected gear discoveries, the episode captures the atmosphere of the show and the people who make it worthwhile.In this episode:The journey to the NEC and the realities of travelling with camera gearHighlights from the show, including meetups, new equipment, and industry conversationsDiscussion around community darkrooms and the continued growth of film photographyA look at unusual and innovative camera projects, including pinhole, camera obscura, and upcoming Kickstarter releasesConversations with Rachel Brewster-Wright (Little Vintage Photography), Brendan Barry, and Alfie Cameras, Analogue Wonderland and many more.Thoughts on the current state of analogue photography and where things seem to be heading People, brands, and projects mentioned:Little Vintage PhotographyWebsite: https://littlevintagephotography.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlevintagephotographyJFR FilmWebsite: https://jfrfilm.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jfrfilmBrendan BarryWebsite: https://brendanbarry.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brendanbarryKhandie ReesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/khandie.reesAnalogue WonderlandWebsite: https://analoguewonderland.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/analoguewonderlandAlfie CamerasWebsite: https://alfiecameras.com/ (Use code TBW120 to save 10%)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alfiecamerasDragon FilmInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dragonfilmIncrement LabsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/increment.labsGodoxWebsite: https://www.godox.com Events and upcomingplansAlmost In Focus photowalk: 26 AprilSign-up: https://photowalk.meAnalogue Wonderland The Big Film Photowalk - 27 JuneMore details to follow Book mentionedTom’s new book; LightPaper Time — a book about darkroom printing, process, and slowing down in photographyAvailable at: https://www.tombobwarland.comThis episode includes show highlights, honest reactions, and reflections on the people, projects, and ideas keeping analogue photography alive.

In this episode, hosts Tobias Beach-Wyld and Tom Warland engage in a candid conversation about their recent experiences in photography, touching on themes of personal projects, the complexities of homelessness, and the importance of continuous learning in the field. They share insights from their teaching experiences, discuss the impact of historical photography, and reflect on the challenges and joys of capturing meaningful images. The episode also highlights the significance of engaging with marginalized communities and the evolving nature of photographic theory.

In this episode, hosts Tom Warland and Tobias Beach-Wyld celebrate their 10th episode by discussing the challenges of justifying camera collections, accepting their levels of GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) , and the impact of social media on personal branding in photography. They explore the psychology behind owning multiple cameras, the importance of using the right tool for the right job, and the joy that comes from engaging with subjects through photography. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion about upcoming events and a potential competition for listeners.

In this reflective episode, Toby and Tom explore the powerful idea of “photographs we didn’t make” and how those unseen moments can shape us just as much as the images we publish. Through candid stories and hard-earned experience, they unpack the hesitation, ethics, and inner conflict that influence our decisions behind the camera.From a teenage photographer documenting a homeless man on the streets of Cardiff without understanding his humanity, to moments in hospitals and personal crises, this conversation examines why some images stay with us as emotional archaeology—while others are left behind because they’re neither necessary nor kind.This episode challenges photographers and storytellers to confront the ethical line between bearing witness and causing harm, asking when to shoot, when to step back, and how those choices ultimately shape our integrity, empathy, and impact.

In this episode of Almost In Focus, Tom Warland and Tobias Beach-Wyld reflect on their own photography projects and explore why working locally can be just as powerful as travelling further afield. Drawing on their university experiences—particularly the formative “grid project”—they discuss how learning to really look at what’s around you can shape both confidence and creative direction.The conversation moves into the realities of documentary photography, from navigating awkward or confrontational moments to the importance of building trust, respect and genuine rapport with the people you photograph. Along the way, Tom and Toby encourage listeners to get involved in their own communities, start new projects close to home, and keep pushing their practice forward.Extras & links:Tom is speaking at The Photography & Video Show on 14th March - come say hi to us thereUse code SPK26 to save 20% on ticketshttps://www.photographyshow.com/Toby’s camera bag: Acme Made Montgomery StreetPete Davis: https://www.pete-davis-photography.com/USW: BA Documentary photography, Station to Station: https://docphotusw.com/Station-to-StationThe Latent Hour Live Stream – last Thursday of every monthhttps://www.youtube.com/@TombobWarland/streams

In this episode of "Almost In Focus," hosts Tobias Beach-Wyld and Tom Warland dive into their New Year resolutions, exploring the balance between personal creativity and professional commitments. They discuss the importance of embracing local projects, the myth of the productive photographer, and the value of enjoying photography without the pressure of social media metrics. Join them as they share insights on setting realistic goals and finding joy in the creative process.

In this episode of Almost In Focus, hosts Tom Warland andTobias Beach-Wyld are joined by Arno Peever from Vintage Visual to discuss the resurgence of analogue photography and their innovative products that make homefilm development more accessible. They explore the importance of community feedback, the benefits of temperature control in processing, and the excitement surrounding future developments in the film photography space. The conversation highlights the joy of teaching photography and the role of technology in enhancing the film experience.If you are interested in getting your own AGO Processor go to:Best price in the UK for the processor, and also some of the accessories: https://analoguewonderland.co.uk/products/ago-film-processor?_pos=2&_sid=8b32cac20&_ss=rFor all other AGO products and AGO purchases worldwide: https://www.vintagevisual.eu/shop/  and don’t forget to use code TBW120 to have5%

In honour of St Nicholas Day, we turn our attention to a photographer celebrated for his documentation of British traditions. In this episode of Almost In Focus, hosts Tom Warland and Toby Beach sit down for an engaging conversation with distinguished documentary photographer Homer Sykes. They discuss the evolution of traditional customs across Britain, the craft of storytelling through images, and the singular experiences that have shaped Homer’s long and influential career. From the challenge of capturing fleeting moments to the satisfaction of recording cultural heritage, this episode offers a rich tapestry of insight and inspiration for photography enthusiasts and cultural historians alike.You can explore more of Homer’s work on his official website: http://www.homersykes.comFollow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homer.sykes/Key Books by Homer Sykes:Once a Year: Some Traditional British CustomsMy British Archive: The Way We Were 1968–1983Colour Works: The 1980s and 1990sAn Annual Affair: Some Traditional British Calendar Customs

In this episode of "Almost In Focus," hosts Toby and Tom explore the intersection of photography and disability. Toby shares his personal journey with a stoma and his project "This Bag Saved My Life," documenting the experiences of people with stomas. Tom discusses his recent experience of breaking his hand, which has temporarily impacted his ability to engage in photography, offering him a glimpse on the daily-reality of those living with a disability. The discussion covers ethical considerations in photographing disability, emphasising collaboration and understanding. Key photographers discussed include Dexter McLean, known for challenging stereotypes with his work on disability pride, and Diane Arbus, celebrated for her empathetic approach to photographing marginalized communities. The episode also examines societal perceptions of disability and photography's role in shaping these narratives.Dexter McLean's Website: https://www.dextermclean.comToby's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tobiasbeachwyld/Toby's Website:https://www.tobiasbeach-wyldphotography.co.uk/

In this episode of Almost In Focus, hosts Tobias Beach-Wyld and Tom Warland explore the intersection of photography and politics, reflecting on their personal experiences and the evolution of British photography over the decades.They discuss the influence of iconic figures like Martin Parr, the romanticism of historical photography, and the ongoing racial and social issues within British society. The conversation also looks at how social media has reshaped the photographic narrative, highlighting community resilience, activism, and representation.Tom and Tobias consider the significance of photography in documenting social change, the importance of community in shaping history, and the impact of technology on how we perceive and engage with photography today. They reflect on the romanticisation of the working class, the cultural reset brought about by the pandemic, and the future of photography in a rapidly changing world.References and Links:Tish (BBC Documentary): https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001xyrg/tishSimon Roberts – We English: https://simoncroberts.com/series/we-english/ | https://www.instagram.com/simoncrobertsphoto/Misan Harriman: https://www.instagram.com/misanharriman/Robert Frank – The Americans: https://www.moma.org/artists/1917Nick Waplington – Living Room / The Wedding: https://www.nickwaplington.org/ | https://www.instagram.com/nickwaplington/

This week we are joined by conceptual artist Ben Bird for a chat around the value of tactile photography through the print, photo-book and his experiences with cyanotype sculptural installation. See more of his work at https://www.benbirdphoto.com/ and following him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/_benjaminbird/?hl=enDon't forget to give this podcast a follow on your favourite podcast platform.

Join us: Tom & Toby as they dive into the dreaded creative block — sharing our personal experiences and some practical ways to move past it. We reference inspiring photographers like:Paul Sebastian Smith — http://www.paulsebastiansmith.comJonas Bendiksen — https://www.magnumphotos.com/photographer/jonas-bendiksen/Amelia Ullman — https://www.ameliaullman.comGot thoughts or tips of your own, or want to share results of your #OneRollProject? Tag us on Instagram and use #AlmostInFocusPodcast — we’d love to hear from you!@tombobwarland & @tobiasbeachwyld___This week we were having some minor (but irritating) audio issues so we apologise for disruptive clicks and pops around half way through!

In this debut episode of "Almost in Focus," hosts Tom and Toby dive into the evolving world of photography. They explore the transition from traditional photo books to the dynamic realm of social media, discussing how platforms like Instagram are reshaping photographic education and practice. With candid conversations about their own journeys and the influence of iconic photographers, this episode sets the stage for a podcast that doesn't always stay sharp but promises engaging insights into the art of photography. Join them as they navigate the blurred lines between documentary, art, and commercial photography.