Episode 18 - The Print Swapping

Episode 18 - The Print Swapping

Print Swapping, Photography Evolution, and the Power of Prints In this episode, we speak with photographer Sam about his journey from award-winning documentary photography in Afghanistan to a career spanning art, editorial, and fashion work. We explore how the photography industry has evolved in the digital era and why physical prints continue to hold a unique power in an increasingly digital world. A major focus of our conversation is print swapping as both a concept and a practice. We discuss the value of exchanging physical photographs, the connections that can be formed through sharing prints, and how these ideas led to the creation of Print Swap, an app that enables photographers around the world to exchange their work. Along the way, we explore how the platform works, its origins, and the challenges and opportunities of building photographic communities online. * Sam's photographic journey from documentary photography to art and fashion * Winning the Ian Parry Award and working in Afghanistan * How digital technology transformed photojournalism and image distribution * The decline of traditional publishing opportunities for photographers * Print swapping as a way of sharing and experiencing photography * The origins and development of the Print Swap app * How Print Swap works and connects photographers worldwide * Why physical prints create a different relationship with photographs * Building photographic communities in the age of social media * Instagram, emerging photography platforms, and the future of image sharing * The value of collecting, exchanging, and living with photographs * Sam reflects on his early documentary work and formative experiences in Afghanistan * The transition from photojournalism into commercial and creative photography * How technology changed the way photographers share and monetise their work * The inspiration behind print swapping and the creation of Print Swap * How the app works and what photographers gain from participating * The emotional impact of receiving photographs through the post * Memorable projects involving portraiture, reenactment communities, and cultural documentation * The opportunities and challenges presented by modern photography platforms * Thoughts on where photography communities may be heading next Download Print Swap and start exchanging physical prints with photographers and visual artists around the world. 📱 iOS (App Store): https://apps.apple.com/pl/app/print-swap/id6752863046?utm_source=chatgpt.com [https://apps.apple.com/pl/app/print-swap/id6752863046?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 🤖 Android: https://print-swap.com/ [https://print-swap.com/]

Episode 17 - Photography Kickstarters (with Increment Labs & Alfie Cameras)

Join us for episode 17 of Almost In Focus as we dive into the world of Kickstarter photography projects, creative entrepreneurship, and the stories behind innovative camera gear and accessories. In this episode, our hosts Tobias, Tom, Dave, Rich, and guests share their insights on crowdfunding strategies, launching camera projects, and the importance of storytelling in product success.In this episode: * The evolution of Kickstarter campaigns in photography over the past four years * Lessons learned from launching Alfie Cameras Tych and the new Alfie [BOXX] * Strategies for building an audience and leveraging storytelling for crowdfunding success * The significance of attention to detail, branding, and human elements in marketing * The role of DIY craftsmanship and "Men in Sheds" culture in creating authentic camera gear and accessories * Insights from Rich on his experience with the Increment Labs Light Meter Watch and the challenges of Kickstarter campaigns * The value of transparency, community engagement, and behind-the-scenes storytelling on social media platforms * Tips for managing the mental fatigue of running successful crowdfunding projects * Future project plans, including upgrades to materials, adding rewards, and expanding product lines The Important Links: * Alfie Cameras [BOXX] Kickstarter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/davefaulkner/alfie-boxx-camera?ref=discovery&term=alfie%20cameras&total_hits=1&category_id=333 * Increment Labs LMW-V1 Watch Kickstarter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/light-meter-watch/the-light-meter-watch-lmw-v1?ref=discovery&term=light%20meter%20watch&total_hits=1&category_id=333 * Crowdfunded (Book) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CDF4M692/?bestFormat=true&k=crowdfunded&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-bk-ser_k2_1_6_de&crid=2QBJ0ATKTS3I0&sprefix=crowdf If you have enjoyed this podcast, dont forget to like, share and of course subscribe

Episode 16 - Photowalks and Questionable Footware

Join Toby and Tom in this episode of Almost in Focus as they explore the magic of photowalks — and why simply heading out with a camera can completely change the way you see the world. From quiet suburban streets to busy city centres, they discuss how photowalks encourage creativity, observation, and unexpected moments of connection. Along the way, they share stories from past walks, chance encounters, overlooked details, and the small discoveries thatoften become the most memorable photographs. The conversation also touches on community, slowing down, and how photographing familiar places can reveal entirely new perspectives. Whether you shoot film, digital, street photography, documentary work, or simply want an excuse to get outside with a camera, this episode is a reminder that inspiration is often much closer than you think. Latent Hour Print Competition Hosted by Tom via Instagram @tombobwarland. Win a Print. Follow, Like and Share to be in with a chance to win a darkroom print. Entries close Friday 15th May. https://www.instagram.com/tombobwarland/ [https://www.instagram.com/tombobwarland/] Analogue Wonderland Big Film Photowalk – Almost in Focus in Market Harborough Join the upcoming community photowalk from Analogue Wonderland Big Film Photowalk – loads of locations and still room to add more. IF you are in the midlands come meet us in Market Harborough https://analoguewonderland.co.uk/collections/the-big-film-photowalk-2026-tickets [https://analoguewonderland.co.uk/collections/the-big-film-photowalk-2026-tickets] Tom’s Other Upcoming Events & Photowalks https://photowalk.me/tombobwarland [https://photowalk.me/tombobwarland]

Episode 15 - Sony Photography Awards

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 & Mentions Colour Hunt Photowalk in London https://www.photowalk.me/photowalk/colour-hunt-photowalk [https://www.photowalk.me/photowalk/colour-hunt-photowalk] Alfie Cameras BOXX https://alfiecameras.com/ [https://alfiecameras.com/] Almost in Focus Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/almostinfocuspodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/almostinfocuspodcast/] Almost in Focus Podcast YouTube (upcoming videos) https://www.youtube.com/@almostinfocuspodcast [https://www.youtube.com/@almostinfocuspodcast] TomBobWarland YouTube (Latent Hour livestream darkroom) https://www.youtube.com/@TomBobWarland [https://www.youtube.com/@TomBobWarland] Support the Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please like, follow, comment, and share — it really helps more photographers discover the show.

Episode 14 - Paul Clements

Exploring Photographic Practice and Community: An Interview with Paul Clements Join 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 academia The importance of research and contextual understanding in photography The evolution of the photography industry, including issues with funding, gatekeeping, and inclusivity The significance of community, collaboration, and peer feedback in developing as a photographer Personal anecdotes about contact sheet critiques and experimenting with film processing in pubs Reflections on the beauty of imperfection and glitches in photographic images Discussions on dangerous photos, ethical considerations, and the political role of photography Resources & Links: William Flusser - Towards the Philosophy of Photography [https://amazon.com/Towards-Philosophy-Photography-Wilhelm-Flusser] Eddie Van Viesel - The Edge of Civilization [https://amazon.com/Edge-Civilization-Eddie-Van-Viesel] Remedy Photo Festival [https://remedyphotofestival.org/] Connect with Paul: https://thebppa.com/author/paulclements/ [http://thebppa.com/author/paulclements/] https://www.instagram.com/paulcclements [https://www.instagram.com/paulclements] https://www.instagram.com/stane_street [https://www.instagram.com/stane_street]