Thank you for continuing to read The Toy Photographers Blog. When I started this blog so many years ago I had know idea what we would grow into. The blog is both historical document and resource for both new and experienced toy photographers. It’s become a reflection of all the amazing toy photographers who’ve helped shape this community. But the last two years we’ve been on auto-pilot due to personal upheavals in my life as well as [waves hands] everything else. I think its high time to get back to our creative work.

Which is why I’m calling on all toy photographers to see who would like to contribute and make their own mark on the blog in 2026.

image by Shelly Corbett

Our history

If you’re not familiar with the history of The Toy Photographers Blog (TPB) let me bring you up to speed. I started blogging as a founding member of Stuckinplastic back in February of 2012. But it didn’t take long before I was frustrated by their narrow vision at the time. While I personally enjoy photographing on a certain toy line, I learn how to be better at my craft from ALL toy photographers.

With the help of Kristina Alexanderson and Brett Wilson I struck out on my own and started this blog. I envisioned the TPB to be a place that would support and encourage creativity. But it would also be a place to learn basic photo skills as well as the skills needed to bring the toys alive. It’s been cool to watch the community grow and change as its been discovered by a much wider audience.

Action by Kristina Alexanderson
Action by Kristina Alexanderson

For me personally this has been a glorious journey of self discovery, adventure while creating fabulous memories. But the success of the TPB is not my own. Over the years there have been many wonderful and talented individuals who have left their mark on the blog. Which is why I’m calling on all toy photographers to see who wants to step up and leave their mark for future generations of toy photographers.

image by Vesa Lehtimäki

What’s next

To be clear, this is not a goodby blog post. In fact its quite the opposite. Its a recommitment to keep growing this blog. I personally want to keep adding to our collective wisdom about toys, photography and storytelling. And I’m inviting you to join me.

The blog was never set up to be a solo adventure. While I keep the lights on, this is not my personal blog. I love that TPB reflects the many diverse voices that make up our community. From toy choice, to photo style the blog aims to capture as much diversity as possible. This diversity in voices can range from toy choice, photo style, experience level as well as cultural differences. While toys may be are our common language, we can also experience this fun hobby through different view points.

image by Tom Milton

I’m calling on all toy photographers asking for volunteers to help write, edit, create interesting content, and general cat herding. (Because tracking down guest posts of all kinds, is basically an exercise in herding cats.) Sound interesting? Keep reading….

I’ve create a list of topics and ideas for potential blog posts in 2026. These include basic photography skills, techniques around toy photography as well as updating older posts that are still relevant, but slightly outdated. I’m looking for a handful of volunteer writers, editors and talent scouts that are excited to take the blog into the new year and beyond.

image by Tobias Schiel

Calling all toy photographers

If you’re still reading, then I can only assume that you’re mildly intrigued and would like to know what the next steps are. Which excites me! I can’t wait to meet you.

If you would like to be a part of our small, but dedicated team please send me an email with the follwoing:

  • Your name and what country you live in
  • How I can find your work on social media
  • What excites you about the blog (1-2 sentences)
  • How you would like to contribute (writer, reviewer, general help / cat herder, editor, updating blog information, social media, etc)
  • 1-2 of your favorite blog posts published on the TPB

You can send this information to me at sjcorbett@mac.com. If I think you would be a good fit, I will be in touch and we can plan our next steps.

Image by Chellie Hyre

The TPB is a community resource as well as a historical document. With your help we can continue to grow this resource and take it into the new year and beyond.

I look forward to hearing from you,

Shelly

[I’ve peppered this post with images from just a few of the talented photographers who’ve helped to grow this blog (both past and current) into the amazing resource that it is. We’d love to feature your photos while sharing your knowledge and creative journey. Reach out and let’s talk!]

image by Tomek Lasek