Book Description

The Film Developing Cookbook is an up-to-date manual for modern film development techniques.While the original Darkroom Cookbook focused entirely on photographic chemicals and formulae, this book concentrates on films, their characteristics, and the developers each requires for maximum control of the resulting image.

The Film Developing Cookbook specifically addresses the difficult subject of T-grain film development. It includes rarely found information on film development and the nature of film developers. The authors take bold and controversial stances on many widely accepted film developing dogmas. They tackle many of the widely accepted "myths" of film development. They reject the trend toward `scientific evaluation' of films and developers in favor of the photographer developing a personal aesthetic without relying exclusively on densitometry or H&D curves.

Steve Anchell is a contributing editor to Outdoor Photographer and PhotoWork magazines.He has written columns, feature articles, and interviews for Camera & Darkroom, View Camera, PIC, Shutterbug, Photo Shopper, and PhotoPro magazines.His previous two books with Focal Press, The Darkroom Cookbook and The Variable Contrast Printing Manual are photography best-sellers.

Steve's photographs have been exhibited in galleries and are shown in private collections.He photographs and prints both color and black-and-white with 35mm, 2¬ and large-format ccameras.He has conducted over 80 photographic and darkroom workshops since 1979.Steve is currently the program director for the Photographer's Formulary Workshops in Condon, Montana.In early 1998, the first collection of his personal work, entitled The Nude at Big Sur, will be published by Whitefish Editions.

Bill Troop is a highly respected independent photochemist.

ú Contains the most current material available on film developing

ú Filled with relevant, hard to find information

ú A companionvolume to the bestselling The Darkroom Cookbook ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A bit disappointing
I bought this book as the other books I have are now a bit dated. As the understanding of film development is always evolving, I thought this book would give me the latest ideas and knowledge.
It does to some extent, but I could not help feeling the authors did not take the time to fully research and comprehend the details. Where they have quoted chemists / researchers the details are clear. However where they have tried to interpret or discuss aspects in some places it appears they do not clearly understand what they are trying to explain. The result is that they contradict themselves, fail to make things clear, or just plain get things wrong. They also only seem to address research by Kodak and a few independent researchers. The book thus misses out on research done by Fuji, Agfa, Ilford, etc. which is a significant omission in my opinion.

So is the book worth it ? I think that I would still buy it as there are very few sources of up to date information available. And to be fair, they seem to have taken care in reproducing the formula. However, I would be sure to read some of the older books on developers, and cross check the information before relying on it.

Another great advanced user book from Anchell.
I bought and read every page of all three of Steve Anchell's black and white photo information books: The Variable Contrast Printing Manual, The Film Developing Cookbook, and The Darkroom Cookbook. Why? Because he gives a mix of an historical view plus tells what to pick of the best current chemistries. He does this without bogging down in the actual complexities of a college chemistry course keeping it at a usable technicians level. Since he also tells you why you are using various chemicals or paper his books do not dumb down but instead give you fascinating useful information. Anyone serious about darkroom work will appreciate his insights and commentary about chemistry use. He lists so many historical and current B&W chemical formulas and their use that any B&W experimenter will find the books useful.

Great for history and formulas, NOT for beginners...
I bought this book under the assumption and recommendation that it would teach me how to begin developing my own film... Unfortunately, this is NOT the book for that! This book has great historical value in describing the different formulas, their strengths and weaknesses, and contains charts that are probably valuable to those who ALREADY process their own film. This book is NOT for beginners looking into how one goes about processing their own film!

Apparently comprehensive
I bought this book to get back into B&W photography. While I'm only up to the description of PMK, I've already been seriously influenced by this book. It explains, thoroughly and beyond my understanding of chemistry, all sorts of B&W film developer. It contains formula, suggestions and experiments for modifications to formula, references to sources, and development times for each combination of developer and film (I think). So now I'm looking into this "pyro" thing. PMK... got that. Special fixer... got that. Now I just need some film to develop. I'm going to do that... tomorrow. Now to find "Book of Pyro".

A seriously good book.

A must have book for anyone who develops their own film!
Anyone who is developing black and white knows that there are a lot of conflicting opinions out there. Kodak wants you to agitate the film a certain way, Ilford says to do it another way. Which developer do I use, and why? This book gives very logical and satisfactory answers to these questions. It allowed me to figure out how I was going to standardize my technique for the films that I am going to use. Don't be mislead by the title. This book does go into details of the effects of metol, phenidone, etc., but it is not a cookbook in the sense that you will come out designing your own developer. It does contain many recipies for developers, for those who mix their own. But, my aim was to figure out what the characteristics are of the developer that I am using, and how to maximize it. The book really excels in this area.

I've run through about 75 feet of Tech Pan film trying out how to develop it using Xtol. Following Ansel Adams' advice in his book "The Negative" turned out to be a mistake, in this case. I was making my negatives way too dense. Anschell and Troop explained why this is, in their chapter on "Document Films". This covers Tech Pan, amongst other similar films. After having read through the book, I revised my working temperature, diluted Xtol to 1+5, changed my agitation style, changed from an acid stop bath to water, and got the fantastic results that I had sought for so long! It's also worked for other offbeat films like Kodak 5302 Positive release film for the B&W slide fans like myself (using Polymax 1+2). If you REALLY want to know what you're doing, and want to save tons of time and money from wasteful trial and error, get this wonderful book. It's really improved my results! ... Read more

Book Description

The only comprehensive, how-to guideto antique and contemporary photo processes, from daguerreotype to digital, Coming Into Focus is the essential reference for the amateur and professional photographer. The mysterious and beautiful processes used by historic and modern art photographers-many of which don't require a formal darkroom-are revealed here in simple, step-by-step instructions and photographic illustrations by internationally recognized experts, with each method carefully reviewed for safety and ease of use.The many "non-traditional" processes detailed here offer photographersexciting alternatives to standard methods-opening up whole new worlds of creative expression. With practical, lay-flat binding, all-inclusive materials lists, a resource guide, and in-depth chapters on chemicals, paper, and equipment, Coming Into Focus is an indispensable, handbook for any photographer in search of answers and inspiration. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An Excellent, Well Written Book
I whole-heartedly recommend this book. I also have "The Book of Alternative Photographic Processes" by Christopher James, another good book, but I always go back to "Coming into Focus". This book is laid out in a very accessible manner, each section is written clearly and concisely, and the processes are described so that you understand and can start experimenting almost immediately (once you acquire the necessary materials for the relevant process). Again, this book is a very useful one, and a handy reference to have around.

A nice addition to any alt-photo library
A compelling blend of traditional processes takes on new life with new, improved chemical formats and digital techniques. Any artist working in alternative processes arrives, sooner or later, at their own individual methods and unique combinations of techniques. This book provides many examples of working formulas that build upon and further develope the traditional standard favorites. The "recipes" are clearly detailed in an easy-to-follow textbook format, with such new processes as the Fredrick Temperaprint (a tricolor system based on gum dichromate) and the Argyrotype (an iron-silver process similar to Van Dyke). It also seamlessly incorporates the digital technology we rely on more and more.

It's given me a wealth of new ideas and projects to try out, and is sure to become an invaluable resource in my own darkroom. ... Read more

Book Description

In this comprehensive guide, the author of the highly successful Polaroid Transfers takes Polaroid techniques one step further with a complete visual guide to creating SX-70 manipulations, transfers, and digital prints. With the growing interest in alternative photographic processes, especially Polaroid techniques such as image and emulsion transfer, Polaroid Manipulations is one of the only complete guides available to help readers master this area of photographic art. This indispensable resource includes detailed, hands-on instructions; dozens of step-by-step procedures; and scores of no-fail creative techniques that add depth and creativity to Polaroid image manipulation. It also features the latest information on cutting-edge equipment and current methods, as well as extensive sections on digital manipulations and printing. Finally, this companion volume to Polaroid Transfers includes an incredible gallery of 20 leading artists who use this process in their own photography. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

I can't wait to try some of Carr's Ideas
I've just recently become interested in Polaroid manipulations and transfers. I can't imagine a better book on the subject.

Carr covers all the technical details including a review of every Polaroid Daylab slide printer ever made -- with step-by-step, illustrated instructions. She also covers a TON of creative techniques to get the juices flowing. Lot's of full-color pictures of these different techniques makes it fun to just flip throught the book to see the art.

I also like the way she uses Photoshop to supplement her manually manipulated images. Lots of just-technical-enough ideas in the Photoshop chapters.

I highly recommend this book.

Outstanding Book
You will not be disappointed. It is lavishly and beautifully illustrated and printed. The text is clear and concise. It doesn't cover the basics of Polaroid transfer but then it doesn't claim to.

Companion Volume & Going Digital
This is a great book ! You simply must add this to your collection ! "Polaroid Manipulations" picks up where Kathleen's wonderful first book, "Polaroid Transfers", left off, offering comprehensive, uncomplicated new techniques for Image and Emulsion Transfers. Additionally exciting is learning about the SX-70 manipulation process. The Digital applications section is so clear and straight forward--it helped reduce my confusion about how to scan my Polaroid art, use Photoshop to enhance it and printing options available. Polaroid manipulation goes high tech, and Kathleen Carr is our guide.

Terrific book!
I love this book! It contains everything you need to know to do SX-70 manipulation. There is comprehensive information on the film, all of the available cameras, tools for manipulation, using a Polaroid Daylab to print slides onto SX-70 film (including info on various models of Daylab), handcoloring SX-70 prints and making digital prints of your SX-70 prints. This is the definitve guide to SX-70 manipulation. Everything you need to know about SX-70 is in here.

There is also a section on Polaroid image and emulsion transfers. This section contains information that is supplemental to the information in Kathleen Thormod Carr's other book, Polaroid Transfers, so don't consider it a substitute for Polaroid Transfers. There is some redundancy between the two books in that there are step-by-step instructions for how to use various models of Daylab to print onto Polaroid films in both books. The models which are covered are different in the two books, however. Polaroid Manipulations covers Daylab 35 Plus and Daylab 120.

Polaroid Manipulations also contains a "gallery" of SX-70 and Polaroid transfers by contemporary artists. And there is a terrific list of resources in the back, so you won't have trouble finding supplies.

If you are in a photographic or graphic arts rut, this book will get you out of it! Outstanding! ... Read more

Reviews (17)

The first scrapbooking how-to newbies should read
If you are still new to scrapbooking and have discovered this book, I envy you. There's no telling how much better my early pages would have been if I had read Creative Photo Cropping for Scrapbooks (CPCS) first. I probably would have saved a lot of money also, for example, by learning how to display my photographs in a way that kept them interesting but didn't rely on buying a lot of decorative accents and fancy papers.

After a short section in the beginning about the tools and basics of cropping photographs, the techniques shown quickly lead to more creative ideas. Techniques covered include: cropping frames into the photo, silhouettes, innovative ways to integrate punches into the action, shapes from templates or freehand, twenty-six ways to make letters from photos, using other photographs as mats and borders, photo mosaics and quilts, weaving, and leaded glass effects. It should be emphasized that these are all things that do not take a lot of artistic talent or training; however, when you feel inspired to try for a certain look or two, you may find yourself changing the way you take your pictures from the start.

One great thing about creative photo cropping, IMHO, is that you are not rushing to the scrapbook store every time you decide to try a different technique with your pictures. The most-used tools in your supply box will be scissors, adhesive, a xacto knife, a straightedge metal ruler and a cutting mat. True, some of these layouts ideas call for templates. The book provides three such templates for enlarging with a photocopier, and several cutting patterns as well. The reader may even be inspired to try some freehand pattern drafting. Scrapbooking with the methods in this book is very easy on the wallet.

Basically, I love this book. My layouts are better and cleaner, and I am inspired by CPCS to focus on the real stars of the pages - the photos themselves.

-Andrea, aka Merribelle

A scrapbooking investment
I bought this book as a gift for my sister-in-law and fellow scrapbooker. Well, after browsing through it quickly, I could not resist looking deeper and studying the ideas presented. Now I had to break down and buy my own copy. The ideas shown here, are so much more than your typical scrapbook page embellishments such as stickers, papers, frames and mats. This is how to make your photos into works of art. The techniques shown here make the pictures the center of attention. I find that when I do these kinds of pages, I get great results with just a simple hand drawn border.

You may need to buy a few new tools to do these kinds of techniques, but I find this to be such an investment over buying more stickers, papers, etc. These pages really wow people, and once I made the initial investment, they are actually cheaper to do.

I especially love the sections on mosaic pages, slicing pictures and using a photo to frame itself. This book is my all time favorite right now...

Best scrapbook I've ever bought!
I just received this book a couple days ago and it is absolutely worth the money! I don't have a lot of money to spend on scrapbooking stuff and this book gives so many ideas that dont require expensive tools! (you can use simple scissors for all of the ideas) Each page is full of easy, fun ways to make your pages look absolutely spectacular!! I am so glad that I bought this book and I recommend it to everyone.

Trully Amazing and Helpful Book
I love this book inside and out. because author picked really useful projects and very neat techincs. I would recommend anyone who is doing any type of scrapbooking or working with photos this book!

scrapbooking is ultimately about the photos
Since scrapbooking is ultimately about the photos, this book hits the mark. Putting your photos on a page has never before been so intriguing! This book is not about what color mat to put under your photos or how to align them on a page- it's about how to transform your photos into works of art, even the shots that did not come out so well. From the whimsical to the elegant, there are techniques in this book to help you design the most interesting and unusual pages. And best of all, for most of the projects you don't really need a lot of fancy tools or purchased accessories- just scissors and glue. And, though I am a crafty type, I don't like to do projects that are too fancy and involved, and this book only has a few truly advanced projects ( like kaleidoscopes, which also require you to develop multiple and reversed copies of your prints). I would suggest this book to any scrapper out there who wants to add intriguing images to your pages. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Pssst, wanna make a weird photograph? How about a moody blue cyanotype or a Kallitype? Or maybe a ziatype, anthotype, or Ambrotype? Or perhaps you'd just like to know more about image transfer processes or how to make a pinhole camera. Imagine knowing a really cool guy who casually tells you lots of valuable stuff about the history and science of photography while you're working in his experimental darkroom, and you've got the essence of the unusual and delightful Book of Alternative Photographic Processes. Christopher James, a photographer and former Harvard University professor, leads you carefully through the chemistry and use of materials for each process. He offers numerous ways to make negatives and prepare the printing paper, and he coaches you in understanding and accepting the enormously variable effects of each method. Seven useful appendices deal with such topics as safety considerations and resources on the Web. Unlike the narrowly task-oriented approach of average how-to guide, this one points you to a much bigger world. Even the illustrations include a generous assortment of contemporary prints--among them James's own inventive images--as well as work by 19th- and early-20th-century photographers. They were the ones who pioneered most of the techniques that are now considered "alternative."

The fun of this book--even for someone unlikely ever to set foot in a darkroom--lies in the author's fascinating excursions into the wide world of knowledge, from the workings of 3-D to Charles Babbage's steam-driven punch-card systems. Equally compelling are the author's sense of humor and his utter lack of dogmatism. "In gum printing," he writes, "there are very few absolutely correct ways to do anything." --Cathy Curtis ... Read more

Reviews (13)

THE Book
Christopher James has written the most reader friendly, technically demystifying, and visually rich books that I have seen in a very long time. The "Little History" sections that begin nearly every chapter are fun to read and full of the connections, anecdotes, and colorful characters, that has made the photographic arts so compelling to historians and artists.

Technically, the book is clear and informative (winner of the Golden Light Technical Book of the Year in 2001) and goes to great lengths to be sure the reader will have little difficulty comprehending and working with the myriad processes covered.

Besides James's very accessible writing style, which reads like conversation between friends, the collection of illustrated work is truly outstanding. It is significant that of the over 300 illustrations, a good percentage were made by James's students and those of other artists, and teachers, represented in the book. It is important to note that the production values in this full color book are outstanding.

James has collected a rich contemporary survey of alternative process work, likely the most comprehensive in print, and this alone makes his book a terrific resource for students of any age. For teachers, it clearly "sets-the-bar" with a buffet of visual possibilities. I viewed an exhibition of the work in the book last fall, at The Art Institute of Boston, and can assure you that the quality of reproduction is first rate.

All in all, this is a wonderful book to read, work with in the studio, and to enjoy purely for the images. If you've ever had an interest in alternative process photography, this is The Book to have.

The Book of Alternative Photographic Processes
Christopher James has written the most reader friendly, technically demystifying, and visually rich books that I have seen in a very long time. The "Little History" sections that begin nearly every chapter are fun to read and full of the connections, and colorful characters, that have made the photographic arts so compelling to historians.

Technically, the book is clear and informative (winner of the Golden Light Technical Book of the Year in 2001) and goes the distance making sure that the reader will have little difficulty comprehending and working with the myriad processes covered.

Besides James's very accessible writing style, which reads like conversation between good friends, the collection of illustrated work is truly outstanding. It is significant that of the 300 odd illustrations, a good percentage were made by James's students and those of other artists, and teachers, represented in the book.

The book is a contemporary survey, really the most comprehensive in print, and makes it a terrific resource for students of any age. For teachers, it "sets-the-bar" with a buffet of visual possibilities. I viewed an exhibition of the work in the book last fall, at The Art Institute of Boston, and can assure you that the quality of reproduction is first rate.

All in all, this is a wonderful book to read and to look at? even if you never attempt the creation of an image using the recipes and techniques within.

even if you have a slight interest..
As far as I am concerned, this is THE BOOK.
It is so incredibly useful and I've learned so much from reading it. It's very well written, easy to follow, tons of references. Wow. I recommend this book to anyone interested in alternative process photography. Anyone interested in photography even. It is wonderful.
Basically, in photography, Silver is used a lot in the photographic papers. Alternative processing uses anything BUT silver. Platnium/palladium, gold, Iron.. even berries and various plants. This book gives a wonderful over-view of it all and tells you how to do it. There is even a bit of history about the different processes complete with wonderful pictures. I love this book.

outstanding
this book is the most thorough alternative photographic process book on the market today.
the images from james, his students and other well-known photographers make it an
inspirational smorgasboard (sp?)......the writing is fun, funny and easily understood.....
highly recommended

do not buy this book. It is not good
This guy has some processes which do not work. He skims over some important details in other chapters. There are some nice images in here, but the Coming into Focus is better.

So, buy another book. ... Read more

Book Description

A leading photographer and fine–art printer addresses the questions that concern every black–and–white photographer who’s changing to a digital “darkroom.” ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Must-have book for creating awesome polaroid transfer art
This is definitely a must-have book for anyone who wants to create incredible Polaroid transfer art. The instructions are excellent and the artwork wonderful. You will be amazed at the cool effects you can create with the remarkable property of certain Polacolor films that enable you to transfer the image or the emulsion layer carrying the image to a variety of other surfaces, such as paper, fabric, wood, etc.

The book starts by discussing the basic supplies needed including choosing the right printer and film. It then shows you both wet and dry methods for making image transfers. There is a great hints section that explains how varying things like heat, time before peeling or adding pressure can create different unique effects. There are instructions for both color and black & white emulsion transfers with a helpful troubleshooting section.

My favorite section, creative techniques, follows. It includes awesome effects like making multiple exposures, making a mosaic of multi transfers and getting a scrambled image from heating in the microwave. Next, the author creates dramatic artwork by hand coloring with a variety of media.

In the advanced techniques section you learn about the three different transfer methods: in-camera, projection printing and slide-printer. Filtration and color theory are also discussed here. The fine art section focuses on finishing off the artwork by framing, matting and protecting it. All instructions are step-by-step and accompanied by demonstrating photos.

In the back, there is a large inspirational gallery featuring the work of 20 different artists with background information on the artist and his/her techniques, giving the book a personal touch. A complete resource directory, book and publication list and contact information for all the artists are also included. Get this boo; it is fantastic.

A very good 'how to' book.
I wish all 'how to' books were as good as "Polaroid Transfers".

Kathleen Thormod Carr knows her stuff. I would venture to say that anyone who reads the book cover to cover, assembles the necessary equipment (not a lot), and spends a rainy day indoors on this project will get good results before the day is through.

Just know that although her techniques are obvious and easy to follow, your own polaroid images will have a life of their own.

I suspect that 'Carr's First Law' should be that "the worst pictures will transfer easiest". Good luck with your best images.

Buy the book. Read it twice. Make some excellent transfers. Impress your friends. :-)

Very well constructed
This should be in every Alternative Artists(Photographer) library. Well written, excellent examples and very comprehensive. You should be able to flourish in the medium after experiencing this book. Kathleen has consolidated a concise book that brings it all together. A value to all.

Great information and images
Very useful book for those of you starting out with image transfer or emulsion. Easy to read with a great artist section.

Wearing Mine Out
Whenever I get ready to work on Polaroid transfers or lifts, I have this book by my side. I refer to it all the time. I took a class in these processes, but when I get ready to work, this is the book I refer too.

Great inspiration and examples are included, but MOST valuable for the step-by-step instructions. ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's disappointing when a photo of a loved one is marred by "red eye" or the wrong exposure, or when a cherished picture from long ago cracks and fades. Luckily, Katrin Eismann seems to know every trick available in Photoshop for making photographs--film or digital--look just how you want them to, whether that means restoring what has been lost, fixing incorrect exposures, erasing dust and scratches, or even recreating reality. (Who wouldn't want to lose a few wrinkles?) Eismann has the artistic eye to appreciate good photography, the technical savvy to be able to offer numerous solutions to any given problem, and the writing and teaching skills to walk readers clearly through these solutions.

The book assumes readers have a working knowledge of Photoshop. It does not go through the basics or cover complex selections or masking, although it does quickly explain essentials like shortcuts, context-sensitive menus, quick image-navigation tricks, the varieties of layers, and smart file management--all issues that expedite workflow and distinguish regular and power users. The book even outlines what it takes to set up shop as a professional retoucher, discussing equipment, studio arrangement, and working with clients and contracts.

The author strongly advises reading the book from start to finish, and she's structured the projects so that they build upon each other. The book is divided into three sections: correcting tone, exposure, and color; restoration, repairing, and rebuilding; and portrait and glamour retouching. Each page is filled with plenty of before-and-after images, along with screen shots of palettes and dialog boxes.

This book makes tackling each of your photo's flaws look easy--it seems like even the worst photo can be saved. Also, by the end, readers will have an appreciation for those who do retouching for a living--it takes planning, a good eye, consistency, and a lot of organization, or you're just flailing away with adjustment layers. You can get a look at a sample tutorial and chapter on the companion Web site, digitalretouch.org, which also includes all project images and other resources. --Angelynn Grant ... Read more

Reviews (58)

A must for Photoshop users!
This is a great book on retouching and restoring photos. It's divided into different parts, each one having tutorials with helpful pictures. The color correction part was helpful for me. I used to use the auto-levels option in Photoshop but now I can adjust the color with much greater control. The other parts of the book are equally well-written and helpful. This book has a lot of tips on how to make your photos and the subjects in them look their best. There are also sections on how to refine skin texture, enhance makeup, and fix dust and scratches in scanned pictures. The accompany website also has many image files that were in the book so you can follow along. This book has really given me a better understanding of Photoshop's many tools.

Two thumbs up! A terrific book!
Until now, I have not purchased one single Photoshop book! (Well, I did buy Adobe's Classroom in a Book for PS 5.) Whenever I'd go to a bookstore and start flipping through the pages of the $50+, 2"-3" thick books, I'd see page after page of stuff that I did NOT want to know about. I don't need to know how to make glowing type follow a curved line, for example. Nor do I need to know how to composite multiple images, graphics, and so on (although Eismann does explain some very useful techniques for doing this).

This is a book for photographers who want to make their photographs look as good as possible. While much of the information focuses on retouching old, damaged images, the concepts apply equally to working on fresh, new images. Frankly, I thought of myself as being reasonably competent with PS, but I learned an enormous number of useful techniques that I'll use right away.

Starting with tone, exposure and color control, the book moves through detailed explanations -- "how-to's" -- of dust and scratch removal, portrait retouching, color to BW conversion, selective focus, multiple sharpening scenarios, etc. While most of the examples are "people pictures," the techniques apply to any subject matter, whether color or BW.

In chapter 1, I started putting Post-its on the edge of pages I wanted to come back to. My book looks pretty silly now with over 50 Post-its sticking out all over the place.

If one is a Photoshop novice, this is probably not the book to start with. Familiarity with the PS tools, how to make selections, how to use layers and layer masks, adjustment layers and so on should be pretty second-nature before diving in here.

While the book does not have a CD, Eismann has a very straightforward Web site from which you can download the images she uses in the book. Her step-by-step explanations are easy to follow on your own computer, using the downloaded images. Eismann's writing style is friendly, with good humor, and is easy to follow. The explanations of technique are clear and to the point. (When the book first arrived from Amazon and I saw that it wasn't 2-3 inches thick, I was worried that it might not contain much "meat." I was wrong -- less is more in this case.)

This book will have a permanent place next to my monitor.

Thank you, Katrin!

Photoshop Restoration and Retouching
This remarkable book is without question, the best of them all. I have purchased quite a few Photoshop Books and I would not trade this book for the rest combined. Had I known what it contained, I would have gladly paid three times the price. If you primarily work with photos this is the book for you.
It is a breeze to understand and practice the tutorials which may be downloaded. In the process of doing so, I also learned how to use PS 6 in ways I had always ignored before because I could not quite understand how to use some of the features.
Katrin Eismann is able to teach in a way that is easily understood. She holds nothing back. How to restore, retouch and process photos becomes easy. It provides a solid foundation for the intermediate and advanced user of PS6.

Excellent job writing this book.
I'm a novice who wanted to restore a whole bunch of all photos from family that my grandmother had in her atic, so I decided to buy Photohop by recomendation of a friend of mind. I have no previous experience in this field, but this book was everything I needed it.
The author is so detailed and the practices so well prepare that it took me no time to hands of it, and look like a profesional in front of my entire family and friends. I would recommend this book to anyone, experts or novices like me.

A Gift for the Flaw-Plagued Photographer
I will admit it. Many of my photos have flaws. Many have not been preserved properly.

They represent memories, however, so I am reluctant to toss them in the trash. Katrin Eisman's book equipped me with the skills to restore them to a state to which I can be proud. This book has helped me take my well-intentioned, yet poorly executed photos, correct the color, contrast and tone. Mold, cracks and torn edges mystically disappear.

The moments I attempted to preserve were precious to me. The beautiful images that result from her easy to find, easy to follow, step-by-step instructions are a gift. ... Read more

Book Description

The Darkroom Handbook is a complete illustrated manual of skills, equally useful to the beginner who has never processed film but wants to try and to the experienced amateur or professional who is already highly proficient in darkroom procedures. From the most basic techniques (setting up a darkroom, loading film in a developing tank, handling chemicals) to the most complicated (making dye transfer prints, solarization, pointillism effects), it explains everything, step by step, with an abundance of photographs, drawings, and charts that no other book can match. Written by one of the world's foremost photographic educators and produced by the editorial team responsible for such best-selling guides as The Photographer's Handbook and The Step-by-Step Guide to Photography, this book has been carefully organized to lead the novice readily into progressively more interesting and sophisticated procedures. For the first time in any darkroom book, a major emphasis has been placed on color -- not only basic processing and printing, but also advanced methods of handling color creatively.

Comprehensive, wonderfully clear, handsomely produced and printed, The Darkroom Handbook is an essential part of every photographer's library. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Techniques can be crossed over to Digital Photography
I have found it practical to use older textbooks on analog photography techniques to sharpen skills and enhance creativity in the digital realm. While newer books are being written on such topics they tend to skip along and trivialize important concepts. Good pictures only enhances one's ability to approach such hybidization attempts. Digital photography has enhanced my appreciation of all forms of photography and this book, and others like it, further fuel this love. Read, reread, and refer to this book.

One of my all-time favorite photo books
I've had this book for 10 years and would be heart-broken if I ever lost it. It's a wonderful source for the photographer who is ready to go beyond the basics and try more adventerous and experimental techniques in the darkroom. It's the only book I've ever found that has so many ways to jazz up your photographs beyond the 'same old.' If you like having fun in the darkroom, this is the book for you.

great guide for all beginning photographers
When i first began learning photography in high school this was my first textbook. With its easy to follow diagrams it really opened my eyes, with out intimidating me, to what there is to be done with photography. This book inspired me to continue my education into a college major. This is a great book for anyone interested in photography. It is full of great examples of the techniques used to creat this wonderfull art. ... Read more

Book Description

Copper Plate Photogravure describes in comprehensive detail the technique of traditional copper plate photogravure as would be practiced by visual artists using normally available facilities and materials. Attention is paid to step-by-step guidance through the many stages of the process. A detailed manual of technique, Copper Plate Photogravure also offers the history of the medium and reference to past alternative methods of practice.

Copper Plate Photogravure: Demystifying the Process is part of the current revitalization of one of the most satisfyingly beautiful image-making processes. The range of ink color and paper quality possibilities is endless. The potential for handwork and alteration of the copper plate provides yet another realm of expressive variation. The subject matter and the treatment are as variable and broad as photography itself.This book's purpose is to demystify and clarify what is a complex but altogether "do-able" photomechanical process using currently available materials. With Copper Plate Photogravure, you will learn how to:

úproduce a full-scale film positive from a photographic negative
úsensitize the gravure tissue to prepare it for exposure to the positive
úprepare the plate and develop the gelatin resist prior to etching
úprepare the various strengths of etching solutions and etch the plate to achieve a full tonal scale
úrework the plate using printmaking tools to correct flaws or to adjust the image for aesthetic reasons
úuse the appropriate printing inks, ink additives, quality papers, and printshop equipment to produce a high
quality print

A historical survey and appendices of detailed technical information, charts, and tables are included, as well as a list of suppliers and sources for the materials required, some of which are highly specialized. A comprehensive glossary
introduces the non-photographer or non-printmaker to many of the terms particular to those fields and associated with this process.

* Follow step-by-step basic printing procedures for a photogravure plate, complete with trouble shooting information

* Valuable information is offered on the materials, procedures, and printshop equipment

* Study the historical precedents from the invention of photography to its current commercial use ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A very user friendly book on photogravure
This new book on the process of photogravure is very well done. It's basic technique is very similar to Deli Sacilotto's now out of print (and almost impossible to find) book. However, Morris and MacCallum have added many useful hint and detailed steps. They have also included a wealth of step by step photographs, and a trouble shooting section at the end of each chapter. With all the variables that can (and always do) creep into the photogravure process, these trouble shooting sections could be very useful. Photogravure is a very complicated process, but, as the title of this book suggests, it should help to sort out a lot of the mystery. This is the most useful book I have read on photogravure, and, heck, it's the only one in print right now! ... Read more

Book Description

Historic Photographic Processes is a comprehensive user's guide to the historical processes that have become popular alternatives to modern and digital technology. Though many of the techniques, applications, and equipment were first developed in the nineteenth century, these same methods can be used today to create hand-crafted images that are more attractive and permanent than conventional prints or digital outputs. Fine-art photographer Richard Farber incorporates extensive research with clearly-written directions and resource lists to provide in-depth information on eight of the most enduring processes in photographic history, including salted paper, albumen, cyanotype, kallitype, platinum/palladium, carbon/carbro, gum bichromate, and bromoil. He guides the reader through each step, from selecting the appropriate paper and sensitizing it to exposing, developing, and toning the final print. Each method is accompanied by a short explanation of how it was originally used and its significance in the evolution of photography.

Historic Photographic Processes contains more than fifty color and ten black-and-white images that beautifully illustrate each of the processes described. Chapters include an introduction to photographic techniques and applications, such as useful safelights, sizing paper, measuring solutions, exposure controls, ultraviolet light sources, and making enlarged negatives, as well as an extensive section on safety in- and outside of the darkroom. The appendix provides important information on the chemicals discussed, as well as health-and-safety references, supply sources in the United States, Canada, and Europe, and a complete catalog of Internet resources. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

In Love with Photo Chemicals?
If so then this is certainly the book for you. If you are one of those photographer who does not enjoy the darkroom; does not like to take the process from start to completion; or perhaps just do not like to experiment. . . Then you may not enjoy this one too much. This book has alot of information.

** one suggestion, if your darkroom is not efficiently ventalated then you may want to stay away from some of the processes involved

History of cool things!
You'll enjoy the info in this one. Makes for a heavy read.

A useful guide
For the budding alternative practitioner, this book is an invaluable resource. It is clearly and engagingly written, and covers the gamut of processes from simple salted-paper calotypes, through platinum/palladium and bromoil. Safety is emphasized, with an overview in the second chapter, and a chemical index with hazards in the back. A thorough list of sources for materials, other references, online resources, etc, is in the back.

One of the best features of the book is that it is not limited merely to the historic processes, but also to modern variants. Therefore, not only classic cyanotype or kallitype is presented, but also modern formulations, with a discussion of how they differ and the advantages/disadvantages of each. The section on carbon printing includes recommendations for 3-color, and for 'overpigmenting' the gelatin base to produce grainy 'mezzotint' pictures. Illustrations include modern prints by the author and british photographer/chemist Michael Ware, as well as classic prints from the days when the techniques were in vogue. Each technique also has a discussion of the proper negative contrast which is required, which is important since most of these processes require contact printing and a denser negative than modern practitioners are used to.

If there is a problem, it's that the design of the book appears to be meant to get a practitioner started in the process, and then point them elsewhere for other sources. It is also clear that some processes (gum bichromate/bromoil) seem to get more attention than others (cyanotype), probably reflecting the author's personal interests in his work. This is a minor quibble, since the cyanotype chapter is still more thorough than most I've read elsewhere, and the formulations for image-color control in the kallitype chapter is invaluable to allow one to explore the range of the process.

In short, this is a well-written, thorough, text which will allow an interested party to get started, and then go to more specialized sources if they decide to delve deeper into one of the processes. It is also an enjoyable read in its own right. I bought it initially to get started in cyanotype, and have no regrets as a result.

Indispensable Photo Book
This book covers many historic methods. This book is for the photographer looking to go beyond silver. It gives you all you need to know to get you started. HIghly recommended - easy to read and follow.

The ultimate alt-photo book
First a disclaimer: I am the inventor of the Ziatype process described in the book.

The title is a little misleading since it says "historical processes." The book focuses on photo processes that are used largely in art photography and do not involve the normally used silver paper or color paper. Yes, many of these processes were used for photography in its earlier years and are "historical," but these processes are most often referred to as "alternative photography" now. If you are a photographer and are looking for a respite from the ordinary, this is your book.

This book replaces the now quite dated Keepers of Light first published in 1979. Since that time, and to the credit of Keepers of Light, alternative photography has grown considerably. This book is excellent and takes in much of the later developments and knowledge of the field.

Farber's treatment is lucid, well illustrated, and takes a hands-on approach. Despite the advances in alternative photography, many of the materials previously available have disappeared from the marketplace. Farber takes this into account and I particularly found his chapters on bromoil and carbon printing to be valuable as he discusses the use of modern bromide papers for making bromoil prints and also how to make your own carbon tissue.

This book belongs on the shelf of every serious darkroom photographer. If you are a photographic collector, I would also advise buying a copy even if you never intend to make an alternative photo print. There is a wealth of succinct information here that would be valuable for any collector wanting to understand the nature of many earlier photographic print-making processes. ... Read more

Book Description

The Darkroom Handbook, Second Edition, is a completely revised and updated version of a classic guide to the best design, construction, and equipment to use when setting up a darkroom.

This book features ideas and money-saving tips on how to put a darkroom almost anywhere in your home or apartment.It takes you inside darkrooms of photographers around the world including those of famous photographers such as, Harry Callahan, Aaron Siskind, Berenice Abbott, and W. Eugene Smith.In addition, it contains detailed do-it-yourself plans for the most essential darkroom components, cutouts and design grids to plan that "dream" darkroom, and special sections on the color darkroom and the digital darkroom.

The most comprehensive book on the darkroom.
A step-by-step guide to help anyone plan and build a photo lab.
Illustrated with an abundance of photos and sketches. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

This is the book you want if you are going to build a darkro
This is the book you want if you are going to build a darkroom. It is excelent! I got another book and half of it was how to build a wall using drywall. This one was not like that and really had plans and technical information that you want.

hi joe!
reading your own reviews now? i miss you! hope you and robin and the kids are well ...

buy this book!

The only guide you will ever need to building a darkroom
I just purchased this book because i am planning to build a darkroom in my basement, and it has provided me with alot of information. And if you have a really small bathroom and you think it's impossible to turn it into a darkroom and use it at the same time, then you better get this book. There are floorplans/layouts & elevation provided, as well as pictures to give you an idea of how your darkroom will turn out. There are so many alternatives given that you can't go wrong in builiding the perfect darkroom of your own and save money as well.

A GREAT BOOK FOR LESS THAN PERFECT CONDITIONS
I found this book to be very practical and direct. What impressed me most was that the authors took into account the fact that not everyone has the ideal accomodations for a darkroom. Each section goes into the how-to of every phase of setting up a simple, basic to the sophisticated darkroom. Everything is spelled out in detail allowing you to "opt out" of any part of the process that you feel may be "over your head" (call the plummer) and to deal with those that are within your reach. In between, the book allows you to peek at how others have set up their facilities. Over all a great book for anyone looking to set up a dark room the "right way".

This is a great book for people wanting to set up a darkroom
This is an excellent book that follows you through the process of determning a room, making modifications if neccesary and creating the physical space for a darkroom.

In addition creating the room, it will take you through the equipment requirements and general layout and design for a good working darkroom.

I used the layout and general design sections to create my own darkroom, and found all the lists, worksheets and diagrams invaluable.

There is even a small section in the beginning that takes you through some famous photographers darkrooms.

All the information you would need, and well organized. ... Read more

Book Description

You asked for it and you got it! Memory Makers has outdone themselves with this sequel to their best-selling book, Creative Photo Cropping, including brand new techniques for turning photos into gorgeous works of art.

Learn innovative ideas for cropping photos into borders, quilt and stained glass designs, mosaics and collages. Discover fresh techniques for framing, slicing, weaving, cutting, punching, piercing, tearing photos and more. Plus tips on how to utilize more of your scrapbook tools to create uniquely cropped photos. Techniques run the gamut, from basic to advanced, with something new for everyone! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Very inspiring
This is one classy book

Jam-packed with ideas, I found it to be very inspirational.
This is the first cropping book that I have purchased, so I am not sure how original the ideas may be. I certainly had never thought of many of the ideas before.

In particular, I like the triptych design, the montage in the shape of a fashion dummy and the myriad of ideas for creating mosaics.
The instructions are clear and easy to follow and the addition of templates to copy is a great help.

All in all, a highly recommended book.

Innovative designs for photos, plus recaps with a twist.
On the heels of their first photo cropping book (Creative Photo Cropping for Scrapbookers), Memory Makers raises the bar yet again with Cutting Edge Photo Cropping for Scrapbookers. The title is a fitting description of the samples inside, which showcase the latest, most innovative photo cropping ideas out there.

CEPC will show you how to turn your photographs into works of art for your scrapbook page. Borrowing techniques and concepts from varied sources, the Memory Makers magazine folks have, to use another cliché, really pushed the envelope on what can be done to make your photos the focus of your layouts. Your tools are usually as basic as scissors, rulers, craft knife, paper trimmer and a cutting mat; now and then more specialized items are called for, such as punches and puzzle templates. The step-by-step illustrations will instruct you easily. And although the finished piece will appear to be anything but simple to the viewer, you will be able to complete most of these without any aggravation or special training. The look of your picture art will be clean, fresh and graphic.

Now a word to croppers who have already read the first photo cropping book by Memory Makers. This second offering does offer over one hundred new photo cropping ideas as the cover promises. However, many of them are redux of ideas from book #1 with variations and twists. For example, weaving strips of b&w and color copies together - that sounds familiar, doesn't it? But here we see it used in new silhouettes and layered with other cropped shapes. Other déjà vu techniques include mosaics, self-framing photos, photo letters and slicing lines and curves into the photos. Note again however that these are all-new examples and they are expanded upon from the original. There are also a lot of truly new techniques, such as making shadowboxes from photos and adding dimension by curling. You can still come away with fresh inspiration.

There are areas of CEPC devoted to using photos to make embellishments and page accents, such as tags, shaker boxes and hinged doors. While I did enjoy these charming techniques, I question that they really had a place in a book that is professing to make the photos the stars of the page, not sideshows. However, they still did involve photo cropping.

CEPC would be a great book for first-time scrappers who need inexpensive ways to make standout pages, or anybody looking for more fabulous layout ideas. Croppers who already own the first book however may want to pass on this one.
-Andrea, aka Merribelle. ... Read more

Book Description

The subject of the zone system is now very much in the mainstream among amateur as well as professional photographers. This newly revised edition of a photography classic teaches photographers how to recognize the zones both on the print and in the field or studio, to pre-visualize their photograph and expose accordingly, to access their prints and negatives for contrast, and to test equipment for reliable results.
This book has been updated to include information on the latest developers and films. New illustrations have been added to reflect the most contemporary photographic styles, and information on digital imaging supplied in the second edition has been expanded into a new chapter.

The practical approach of this book, with its numerous time-saving development and film charts and easy-to-follow testing methods, is an important resource for the beginning, large-format, 35mm, and professional photographer. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Best intro to Zone System I've seen
Absolutly easy to understand and read. Very well presented, and may well be the only book on Zone System you will ever need. For those wanting to delve into the chemistry of exposure, pass on this book. If you want to learn what the Zone system is and how it works, this book is great. "Everything you need, nothin' you don't"

Practical, useful, sound guidance on the zone system.
This is one of the easier books to understand on the zone system. It does not get too tied up in the details of the system but describes enough detail to allow the reader to understand the basics of the system. This book is really targeted to someone who is not familiar with the zone system or who has studied it in more complex books and did not really comprehend the system. For this intended audience the book is right on target. It takes the complex issues of the zone system and removes the calculations and just gives you what you need to know. Think of it like the difference between an art teacher who says "Color the grass green" versus one who says "The grass must be green because chlorophyll absorbs the green portion of the light spectrum and so reflected light appears that color". If you just want to know how to use the system without a lot of detail behind why the system works then this is a good book selection for you.

clear & really "practical"
Of the several books I have on Zone, this is by far the best and most easily understood. It's to the point, and has great examples, especially explaining the effects of development time.

The Pratical Zone System
I have found this book, The Pratical Zone System, by Chris Johnson to be the best book that I have read on the Zone System. It explains every detail of the Zone System. Some of the other readings that I have read on the subject make it a complicated system. Mr Chris Johnson's book is very easy to comprehend and it is very interesting. It also makes a great reference manual. Most important is that using the methods in the book you will get the the best results possible creating a photograph.

Anyone that is planing on using the zone system or is having trouble understanding the zone system will have all the problems resolved with this book. Joe Pica

The Practical Zone System makes the Zone System just that.
This book is an excellent introduction to the Zone System. If you are looking to learn about the Zone System, it is hard to go wrong with this book. However, if you are somewhat familiar with the Zone System and are looking for more advanced info, this may not be the book for you. I had read Ansel Adam's book "The Negative" (which is an excellent book if you are looking for a bit more technical and in depth study) before this book so I felt that the book was a little simple. However, the thing I love about this book are the appendixes Chris includes. In them are a wealth of info for developing times for many developers and films, as well and a plethora of additional useful information. I also found the two testing methods Chris provided to be extremely accurate and useful. In summary, this is an excellent introductory book on the Zone System, and intermediate users will find the appendixes extremely useful. However, if you consider yourself an expert in the Zone System, I would not recommend this book. However, if you consider yourself an expert, you probably won't be looking for a book anyway. ... Read more

Book Description

There is renewed interest among art photographers in a number of historic printing techniques because of the remarkable effects they produce.The reader will discover how to create beautifully tinted mono- and polychromatic gum and oil images using the author's version of this 19th century technique. Step-by-step illustrated instructions with directions for further experimentation provide a perfect source for learning this new, yet old, printing technique.

Gumoil printing involves contact-printing a positive transparency onto gum-coated paper. Oil paint is then applied and rubbed into nongummed areas of the print. With bleach etching, mono- and polychromatic variations are possible. A chapter on digital printing combines the new and the historic, making this technique even more accessible for the art photographer.

Includes a new chapter on digital printing techniques

Step by step instructions for using this technique

Eight page insert containing 10 beautiful color images ... Read more

Book Description

Written in easy-to-understand language, The Darkroom Cookbook is the one source every photographer needs for the recipes for both common and rare photographic formulas.This book shares tried-and-true techniques for the silver-based process and provides the keys to unlocking creativity through the mastery of the 'ingredients' of photography -- namely the chemicals used to develop, fix, stop and tone.


The Darkroom Cookbook, 2nd Edition offers 170 photographic formulas, 20 of which are new to this edition, that cover film developing, paper developing, toners, stop baths, fixers, negative reductions, print reductions, negative intensifiers, paper intensifiers, and more. New information has been added on pyro developer, amidol developer, monobaths, pushing film, and low contrast development. Sections on safety and darkroom planning, as well as a listing of chemical suppliers, complete this book. The comb binding allows for easy darkroom use.

*Recipes for 170 photographic formulas and their specific uses, including 20 new ones
*In-depth analysis of which formulas work best under what conditions, as well as specialized conditions, such as working in extremely cold or tropical climates
*Handy, easy-to-access information on safety, suppliers, darkroom planning, and conversion tables ... Read more

Reviews (5)

It's not for me
If you are a step by step learner don't buy this book also If you are not welling to spent hours daily to learn from it don't buy this book, its kind of book which requested by the teachers to there students.

Well loved and dog-eared
This book has been flipped through many times, it holds many wonderful ideas and continues to inspire me in this digital age we live in!

The Darkroom Bible
This book is an absolute must-have for the experienced printer who wants to step up to the next level. The wealth of information he provides, from technical to historical, is extremely interesting, albeit a bit dizzying at times. However, the book can be used as a reference as needed for information on specific chemicals, formulas, or resources for supplies and equipment. Of all the books that I have read on printing, this is the one that has been most useful.

Excellent reference for both shooters and photo scientists
Mr. Anchell has complied an excellent book for both people becoming interested in developing their own film and those who want to know more about the chemistry of photographic processing chemicals. There are sections on getting started building your own darkroom, previously tested formulae for developer, fixer, and other assorted solutions, and a full explanation of what each chemical does in the formulae if you want to create your own developer. I used this book as a reference in a college level photographic chemistry class and I found it invaluable.

A excellent book for serious darkroom fanatics.
As stated in the summery this is a great book for people who wish to advance in the darkroom; to have more control over their work. The Darkroom Cookbook discuss, in easy to understand concise language, how to make your own developers, toners, fixers, reducers etc. Stephen Anchell gives you the formulas to reproduce, in your own darkroom, a host of great developers etc. He also gives some basic info on hints and tools you will need to get started. A well written book easy to follow; though a little knowledge of basic chemistry is helpful. I am a new darkroomer and found this book has a wealth of inforamtion helpful if you like to expeirment. By the way, If you are just being introduced to the darkroom or rusty at it, don't buy this book at this momment. Wait untill you feel comfortable working in the darkroom using stock chemicals, this book might discourage some from beinning because it is a techincal manual. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Building a sink isn't for everyone, but...
This book is probably not practical for those who don't already own woodworking tools (i.e., sabre saw, circular saw, clamps, chisels, etc.). However, if you are looking for an excuse to buy some, here it is. I actually built the sink and I have to say that it works like a charm, I use it constantly and the whole process of building it was gratifying. The down side is that I wouldn't say this is the way to go to save time or money. The time and cost estimates provided in the book are not very realistic. For the big projects it would be wise to set aside a weekend or so to complete them. You could probably buy a fiberglass or stainless steel sink on an online auction and spend roughly the same amount of dough. I also built the basic table, which I like very much. Probably the most useful aspect is that you can tailor the designs for your darkroom. If you get a sense of satisfaction from building things and you can't find the right equipment to fit your space then this is the book for you.

good reference book for starting a home darkroom
There are plenty of illustrations in this book, but they are only sketches or drawings. This book has some ideas that may be outdated or simply not economical. For instance, making an entire darkroom sink, painting it, preparing it for sealing, and all that, not to mention the worrying about leaks, etc. Could be better suggested that an economical sink under 100.00 be purchased... Too much time and effort into something that "might" save you time and money isn't worth it for me. ...