Our First Pod-a-versary

A year into Almost in Focus, Toby and Tom are joined by Khandie, Laura, Sam, and Ben for a loose, lively conversation about photography, creative practice, and what actually makes work worth paying attention to.

The discussion moves through street photography, AI, social media, zines, books, education, ethics, and the growing appeal of physical, tactile work. Along the way, the group question why some photography feels empty, how online platforms shape what gets rewarded, and whether controversy and criticism can be useful rather than destructive.

Topics include:

• Why some street photography can become disposable content
• How AI may change what audiences value in photography
• The renewed appeal of zines, books, and printed work
• Ethics around photographing vulnerable people and public spaces
• The value of criticism, feedback, and having a clear point of view
• Brand gifting, influencer culture, and the pressures of social media

There is also plenty of first-birthday chaos, including cake, candle jokes, duck cameos, nostalgia, and discussion about whether Almost in Focus should become even more opinionated in year two.

A relaxed anniversary episode about making work with purpose, developing a point of view, and creating photography that matters beyond likes and algorithms.