In 1864 Moss announces that he has purchased the whole of the business from Audet, with the services of Mr. Audet having been secured until January 1865. [1]
Moss makes an impact with his ‘novelty in photography’ in November 1867:
An operation in photography, which we have not before seen in Maitland, was shown us the other day by Mr. Moss, of the Photographic Company, High-street. This operation is “photographing a ghost," arresting the ethereal, and fixing it on glass or paper. [2]
The Mercury’s relationship with Moss could be characterised as one of ongoing praise and supportfor his work, commencing in February 1868 with his ‘excellent’ photographs, through to superlatives such as: “Wherever art is discussed "Moss" is a household word, and without a doubt that gentleman has a reputation as one of the best photographers in Australia." [3]
Later in 1868, Moss’ portraits of the Prince Alfred Dramatic Club also mentions Aland Watts, local signwriter and painter, with whom Moss collaborates on other occasions. [4]
In addition to photography, Moss’ business also includes the sale of “fancy goods”; his advertisement of 8 May of 1869 indicates that he has just opened six cases, with stationery, jewellery, brooches, charms, toys and portrait albums ‘cheaper than ever’.