Joseph Hardman (1893–1972) was born in Radcliffe, near Manchester but moved to Kendal in 1911. He was a keen photographer so joined the local Photographic Society and made the acquaintance of Clarence Webb, who channeled his enthusiasm for photography and provided advice and guidance. As an amateur, Hardman sold a few of his photographs to local newspapers and the response with which they were met probably played a part in encouraging him to make photography his main occupation. Hardman often worked freelance for The Westmorland Gazette, often covering up to 200 miles a week in a taxi. He tirelessly documented local events, personalities and traditions such as the Lyth Valley damson harvest. He also attended informal rural events like shepherds’ meets, cataloging a way of life that was, even then, changing.