Almost in Focus

Tobias Beach-Wyld and Tom Warland
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A Photography Podcast that doesn't always stay sharp. Welcome to the latest photography podcast you really don't need! Join Toby and Tom ramble and discuss ideas in photography from their shared point of view of teachers who studied Documentary Photography. Tom is a visual anthropologist and darkroom printer, ambassador for photographic retailer: Analogue Wonderland. Toby is a documentary photographer who focuses on very long in-depth projects.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Episode 12 - A Day Out at Birmingham’s NEC and Photographic Adventure (AKA The Photography Show 2026) This episode is best experienced on Spotify or Youtube

    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 gear Highlights from the show, including meetups, new equipment, and industry conversations Discussion around community darkrooms and the continued growth of film photography A look at unusual and innovative camera projects, including pinhole, camera obscura, and upcoming Kickstarter releases Conversations 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/littlevintagephotography JFR FilmWebsite: https://jfrfilm.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jfrfilm Brendan BarryWebsite: https://brendanbarry.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brendanbarry Khandie ReesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/khandie.rees Analogue WonderlandWebsite: https://analoguewonderland.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/analoguewonderland Alfie Cameras Website: https://alfiecameras.com/ (Use code TBW120 to save 10%) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alfiecameras Dragon FilmInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dragonfilm Increment LabsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/increment.labs GodoxWebsite: https://www.godox.com   Events and upcomingplans Almost In Focus photowalk: 26 AprilSign-up: https://photowalk.me Analogue Wonderland The Big Film Photowalk - 27 JuneMore details to follow   Book mentioned Tom’s new book; LightPaper Time — a book about darkroom printing, process, and slowing down in photographyAvailable at: https://www.tombobwarland.com This episode includes show highlights, honest reactions, and reflections on the people, projects, and ideas keeping analogue photography alive.

    1h 4m

  2. 4 MAR

    Episode 11 - What Photography Teachers Do on their Week Off

    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.

    55 min

  3. 18 FEB

    Episode 10 - G.A.S.

    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.

    51 min

  4. 4 FEB

    Episode 9 - The Photographs We Didn't Make

    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.

    52 min

  5. 21 JAN

    Episode 8 - Grids and Doughnuts

    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

    53 min

  6. 7 JAN

    Episode 7 - New Year Goals

    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.

    45 min

  7. 22/12/2025

    Episode 6 - Darkroom Innovation with Vintage Visual

    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=r For all other AGO products and AGO purchases worldwide: https://www.vintagevisual.eu/shop/  and don’t forget to use code TBW120 to have5%

    45 min

  8. 06/12/2025

    Episode 5 - Documenting Traditions with Homer Sykes

    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 Customs My British Archive: The Way We Were 1968–1983 Colour Works: The 1980s and 1990s An Annual Affair: Some Traditional British Calendar Customs

    1h 9m
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About

A Photography Podcast that doesn't always stay sharp. Welcome to the latest photography podcast you really don't need! Join Toby and Tom ramble and discuss ideas in photography from their shared point of view of teachers who studied Documentary Photography. Tom is a visual anthropologist and darkroom printer, ambassador for photographic retailer: Analogue Wonderland. Toby is a documentary photographer who focuses on very long in-depth projects.

Information

  • Creator
    Tobias Beach-Wyld and Tom Warland
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Tobias Beach-Wyld and Tom Warland
  • Show Website
    Almost in Focus