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 there
  Use code SPK26 to save 20% on tickets
  https://www.photographyshow.com/

• Toby’s camera bag: Acme Made Montgomery Street

• Pete Davis: https://www.pete-davis-photography.com/
• USW: BA Documentary photography, Station to Station: https://docphotusw.com/Station-to-Station

• The Latent Hour Live Stream – last Thursday of every month
  https://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.