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

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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

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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/

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

Tom’s Other Upcoming Events & Photowalks

https://photowalk.me/tombobwarland

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

Alfie Cameras BOXX
https://alfiecameras.com/

Almost in Focus Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/almostinfocuspodcast/

Almost in Focus Podcast YouTube (upcoming videos)
https://www.youtube.com/@almostinfocuspodcast

TomBobWarland YouTube (Latent Hour livestream darkroom)
https://www.youtube.com/@TomBobWarland

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