On a relatively mild October night, I took in the phenomena that is Hayseed Dixie at Shrewsbury’s Albert’s Shed.

It quickly became clear why they’ve built such a devoted following over more than two decades. There are tribute bands, there are bluegrass bands, and then there’s Hayseed Dixie, the self-proclaimed creators of “Rockgrass”, a glorious collision of hard rock and bluegrass that, on paper, shouldn’t work. In reality, it works spectacularly.

There are songs that grab your attention immediately, and then there are songs that linger long after they’ve finished. Dan Owen’s latest single, Black Moon, manages to do both.

I’ve had it on repeat since its release and, on first listen (23 January 2026), I found myself wondering whether it was a forgotten blues or classic rock standard. That’s not because it lacks originality. Quite the opposite. It has the rare quality of sounding instantly familiar while remaining unmistakably its own.

I’m delighted to have learned that one of my photographs has been selected for the Glasgow Gallery of Photography’s Open 2026 exhibition.

Having work accepted for exhibition is always encouraging, but this selection feels particularly meaningful. Not because it confirms that I’ve got something right, but because the photograph was made without any thought of judges, competitions or trends. It was simply a photograph that reflected the way I see the world and the kind of work I want to make.

Some places seem to hold onto their past more strongly than others.

The remains of Snailbeach Lead Mine, nestled beneath the Stiperstones in Shropshire, are one such place. Once one of the most productive lead mines in Britain, and reputed to have yielded more lead per acre than any other mine in Europe, the site played a significant role in the industrial history of the region. Today, its surviving engine houses, workshops and mine buildings stand as some of the finest preserved examples of lead mining heritage in the country.

A personal guide to infrared photography using a Fujifilm X-T10 converted to 850nm infrared. This article explores how infrared photography simplifies the image-making process, producing high-contrast black and white results, while fundamentally changing how light is understood and used. Drawing on real shooting experience, it offers practical advice for beginners, covering camera conversion, composition, exposure, and post-processing. A reflective look at how infrared photography can reset your approach to seeing and working with light.

A look behind the scenes at Red Dot photography by James Warman. A photography service for practising artists and art galleries.

Landscape deconstruction shifts the focus away from the scene as a whole and onto its individual components. Instead of asking the image to describe a place, it asks it to explore ideas. Colour, shape, texture, line, and form become the subject matter. A stretch of sky might be reduced to tonal blocks. A tree line becomes a rhythm of verticals. Water turns into texture rather than a body with edges.

An abstract street photo exploring mood over detail, blending ICM and fine art to capture the feeling of a busy town centre.

Too many organisations still ask creatives to work for free. My latest blog explores the hidden cost of “experience” and offers advice for creatives and institutions alike.

Cafe interior. Finding the extraordinary in the everyday.

Discover why choosing between colour and black and white photography is more than a stylistic decision. Photographer James Warman explores intent, emotion, and visual storytelling, offering a clear guide to when black and white works best and why committing to your creative vision matters.

Discover why professional band photography can make all the difference. In this blog, Shrewsbury-based photographer James Warman shares his creative process working with local alt-rock band Cosmic Rays, whose drummer is renowned comic artist Charlie Adlard. Learn how James’s LOUD+CLEAR service helps musicians stand out with customised shoots that reflect their unique sound and style. Perfect for bands looking to elevate their image and reach the right audience.

Discover how Shrewsbury-based photographer James Warman captures the energy and emotion of live music through thoughtful preparation, attention to detail, and a documentary-style approach. In this behind-the-scenes blog, James shares practical tips on photographing gigs, from researching the band and venue to working with security, finding the best angles, and capturing the perfect moment on stage and in the crowd. Ideal reading for music photographers, event organisers, and live music fans.

Why organisations asking for free photos under the guise of competitions devalue creative work and what ethical alternatives look like.

Wondering when you need a model release? This guide breaks down when it’s legally required, what to include, and how to protect yourself when using photos of people for commercial or editorial work.

Professional photographer James Warman shares why he’s using full-frame cameras and a two-camera setup at The Brit Fest in Altrincham, offering insights into shooting live music in challenging lighting conditions with fast lenses and trusted Nikon gear.

Discover why the “first three songs only” rule limits live music photography—and why it’s time venues and promoters rethink outdated restrictions. Let photographers capture the real magic, mid-set and beyond.

Discover how I approach band promo photography with my LOUD + CLEAR service, offering a fully bespoke, professional experience that captures each band’s true sound, image and story. Ideal for musicians ready to update their promotional shots.

Explore the legality and ethics of street photography in the UK. James Warman shares insights on photographing candid human moments in public, understanding your rights, handling challenges, and shooting with integrity and respect.

Discover why using staff photos in marketing — especially after employees leave — can raise serious legal issues under the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018. This guide explains what counts as personal data, the importance of consent, and what steps employers must take to stay compliant and respectful.