Book Description

If you're ready for an Elements 3 book that breaks all the rules, this is it, because it does something for digital photographers that's never been done before--it cuts through the bull and shows you exactly "how to do it." It tells you, flat-out, which settings to use, when to use them, and why.

This book is not a bunch of theory; it doesn't challenge you to come up with your own settings or figure things out on your own. It gives you the same settings used by some of the top digital pros, settings you can use today to get professional results you've always dreamed of.

Plus, since this book is designed for photographers, it doesn't waste your time talking about how to frame a shot, setting your exposure, etc. and there's no talk which camera or printer to buy. It's all Elements, step-by-step, cover-to-cover in the only book of its kind, and you're gonna love it!

Besides learning the inside tips and the tricks of the trade for correcting, editing, sharpening, retouching, and presenting your photos like a pro. You'll learn how to unlock the power of all the new Elements 3 features, including how to manage your photos using the new Organizer, how to use the new "pro tools" like the Healing Brush and the Shadow/Highlight controls, and how to master the new "Creation" section to take your photos to an entirely new level. Plus, you'll see it all step-by-step, in plain English, and you'll be absolutely amazed at how easy and effective these techniques are, once you know the secrets.

You'll learn:

• The secrets of how the pros retouch portraits
• How to incorporate the amazing new features of Elements 3 into your work today!
• How to color correct any photo without breaking a sweat (you'll be amazed at how they do it!)
• How to repair and restore damaged photos
• The sharpening techniques the pros really use (there's an entire chapter just on this!)
• Dealing with common digital camera image problems, including removing noise and avoiding halos
• When to use Quick Fix, and when to do to it yourself (using our step-by-step methods).
• The most-requested photographic special effects
• and much more!

But besides all that, this book has a "secret weapon" that makes it the most important, most useful Elements book yet. The reason is this--although Elements 3 offers some digital photography features Photoshop CS doesn't offer, there are plenty of features that Photoshop CS has, that Elements 3 still doesn't have (things like Layer Masking, Channel Mixer, etc.). But in this book, you'll learn some slick workarounds, cheats, and some fairly ingenious ways to replicate many of those Photoshop features from right within Elements.

There's never been a book like it, and if you're a digital photographer using Photoshop Elements 3, this is the book you've been waiting for.

... Read more

Book Description

This is the first book that provides a balanced treatment of image processing basics and software principles used in the practical application of image processing. Working in the MATLAB computing environment, it provides a stable, well-supported set of software tools capable of addressing a broad spectrum of applications in digital image processing.The major areas covered include intensity transformations, linear and nonlinear spatial filtering, filtering in the frequency domain, image restoration and registration, color image processing, wavelets, image data compression, morpohological image processing, image segmentation, regions and boundary representation and description, and object recognition.For software developers working with image processing. ... Read more

Book Description

Setting up a successful color management workflow is difficult, and attaining predictable results can be frustrating. "Color Confidence: The Digital Photographer's Guide to Color Management" is the only practical, results-oriented book that teaches you how to manage color effectively across devices (cameras & scanners, computers & monitors, and printers & other output devices) so that you can produce accurate, desirable color, every time. Highly respected digital imaging expert Tim Grey designed this accessible, striking book for busy photographers who want to get results quickly. He focuses on the essential concepts and practical information you need to make the best color decisions. Bottom line: this is a book no photographer should be without! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

The Title Tells It All
Some people shoot pictures with digital cameras, download them, print them up and are happy with whatever they get. Others complain if there is the least deviation in color between what they remember seeing and what gets printed up. It is at this latter group that "Color Confidence" is aimed.

Tim Grey, the author, is a respected teacher of Photoshop techniques and is known to many for the Digital Darkroom Questions mailing list, which many digital photographers read on a daily basis.

This book is aimed at a single issue in digital photography: how to make the output of the digital photography process, be it individual print, world-wide web, or printing press, match the color that the photographer visualized when he took a picture. Several years ago, when photographers were less sophisticated and happy with the ease of getting digital output, this was scarcely a question, but as digital photographers became more experienced (and as affordable techniques became available) more and more photographers began to ask why the output of their printers didn't look like their monitors. The field of color management was born.

With a minimum of technical jargon, the author explains the nature of color. He then tells you how to establish color profiles for input devices, like cameras and scanners, processing devices like computers, and output devices like ink-jet printers, so that all of the devices in the digital darkroom pass on information about the digital photograph that will insure consistency. For computer software, Grey assumes the use of the industry standard, Photoshop. If you use some other image processing software, you will have to interpolate from Photoshop, or find some other source of color management information.

If you read every word in this book, Grey might appear pedantic, because when he discusses using several different devices for a particular purpose, he will repeat many of the same instructions, word for word. But if you later pick up the book, while you are sitting at your computer, you know that what you are reading will be the whole story for the operation and tool that you are using, and that some important hint is not hidden elsewhere.

I?ve long considered myself to be relatively savvy when it comes to color management. However, I picked up a few tips about along the way that clearly made the book worthwhile for me. For example, I understood the function of "soft-proofing" but never really developed a regular work process dealing with this technique. Then I read Grey's discussion and a light bulb went on.

This is not exciting reading, but the author is clear and direct and moves the subject along quickly. If you need to learn about color management for digital photography, this is the book for you.

Yes, one can print photos to be proud of.
How many times have you been disappointed with your photos as displayed on the computer screen? Oftentimes they may look good on the screen but not so well once printed. Tim Grey, author of Sybex's latest book dedicated to digital enthusiasts, helps readers manipulate their digital images more efficiently so the desired output is achieved with minimal waste to your pocketbook and time. Readers are led step by step beginning with capturing color appropriately with digital cameras or properly adjusting scanners and their software to capture the best image. Outputting images, especially to your own printer, but also to professional print houses and to the web and E-mail is thoroughly reviewed. Significant discussion of techniques using advanced image manipulation software such as Photoshop is provided to help readers tweak color balance, brightness, contrast, and many other aspects to achieve the best possible image. Grey closes his book with a summary of the essential steps to achieve the best possible image. Though a CD or DVD is not included, numerous examples throughout the text well complement Grey's points.

One text paragraph illustrates Grey's purpose in writing Color Confidence: "It is often tempting to adjust the image in Photoshop when the printed image doesn't match what you see on the monitor. For example, if the print comes out too magenta, you may be tempted to adjust the color balance in the image toward green to offset the magenta. The problem with this approach is that you are making the image itself intentionally inaccurate in an effort to produce accurate results for a single output condition. What happens when you print that same image with a different printer, ink, and paper combination? You'll have to find new ways to manipulate the image in an effort to produce an accurate print. In effect, you're chasing the print, trying to find just the right way to adjust the image to make it look wrong in just the right way so the print will look the way you want it to look. This is not a good way to work with your images."

Though the publisher advertises Color Confidence as an intermediate text, I recommend to users of Photoshop Elements as well as Photoshop who want to improve the quality of their images, whether they plan output to the web or paper, to take a look at this book. This book is not for those content with the editing capabilities of iPhoto. However, after reading Color Confidence, iPhoto users might get the urge to use Photoshop Elements for image manipulation. Though I will never be a graphic artist, I look forward to reading the book again (too much information to absorb from one reading) to further advance my abilities to produce photographs for which I am proud to share.

Great book, if you don't know what you're doing
I know a lot of people who are totally lost when it comes to producing prints they like. A watercolor artist friend struggles with her Minolta 7i and Epson 2200, jumping through hoops and tweaking images in Photoshop and/or the printer driver. This book (along with monitor calibration) would solve her problems. The advice is comprehensible and comprehensive.
I have been there and done that; owned two Epson 1200s using profiles and inks from a well-known source but never achieved success. If you have felt that pain, read this book.
I subscribe to the author's free mailing list, and find that the accuracy of information in this book is actually better than that he provides online. Tim Grey knows his stuff, though (OT) he seems to be confused about imager size and depth of field.
If you already calibrate your monitor, use accurate profiles for your paper/printer/ink, and such, the incremental knowledge you'll gain from this book will be modest. The workflow I use with my Epson 7600, Bill Atkinson profiles and Eye One Display are very similar to the author's recommendations. If you have gotten that far, you don't need Color Confidence.
If what I just wrote is Greek to you, Color Confidence has the info to get you on the right track. Just be forewarned that you're going to have to fork over for monitor calibration tools or the books's suggestions won't do you much good. That will set you back 3-5 times the cost of the book. You may also have to invest in printer profiling, for $50-1,500 depending on how you approach it.
I also own Real World Digital Photography, Second Edition, which was co-authored by Grey. I'd say that both of these are quite informative if you are a novice, but less so if you are reasonably advanced in digital imaging.

Color Confidence
Most photographers agree entering the digital world can be very challenging. There is a vast amount of information to filter through. Tim Grey is an expert in that area and is up there with all the top guys in the digital world. I have personally attended one of his seminars and know for a fact that he is extremely knowledgable and most importantly a very good teacher. He has the ability to take a huge amount of information and put it into simple terms that can be understood. The topics he has covered in this book are all the critical steps that you need to know whether you start out with film or a digital capture. This book will clear up a lot of questions about working with digital images.

The best yet for digital photographers
I write reviews of books on Photoshop as part of my work, so I read a lot of them. This has to be the best I have come upon for the aspiring digital photographer. It is not for someone who just wants to take photos of their family at Disneyland, or at a wedding, but for photographers who want to get the best from their digital camera; this is a "must read." Mr. Grey describes what to do, why and what to expect, he carefully explains alternatives and warns about the pitfalls. The good illustrations reflect the attention to detail of the writing. It is clear, not too technical and very informative. You will need Photoshop to get the most from this book. If you care about your images, read this book. ... Read more

Book Description

Digital photography has arrived once and for all. No longer do photographers have to be defensive because they prefer digital. Thanks to new technologies, digital cameras at all ends of the price spectrum can rival their film counterparts. If you have shifted from traditional to digital photography, and need to know what's different about shooting digital, this is the book for you. Now in its third edition, this bestseller has been fine-tuned and updated to provide you with the most current information on today's cameras that you'll find anywhere. Whether you're new to photography, or new to digital photography, you'll learn how to take the best possible shots. Even though your camera may pack an image sensor instead of film, taking good pictures still involves understanding apertures, shutter speeds, and metering techniques, as well as a few other issues that film shooters don't face. Fortunately, digital cameras also provide some unique tools to help you get the shot right the first time.

Covering everything from the inner workings of your camera to the subtle intricacies of your image editing software, the book is divided into four sections. The first section provides a basic technical foundation that will prepare you for the rest of the book. It details the basics of how digital cameras work and gives you a quick photography primer. The second part explores everything you need to know to make an informed decision about which camera, computer, and software is right for you. In section three, you'll progress to the nitty gritty of shooting, including metering, choosing the right exposure, using histograms, flash photography, and much more. In the final section, you'll learn about digital editing and correction techniques, along with the various methods for outputting your images (print and electronic). If you're new to photography, you'll learn the basic theory that photographers have studied for decades, as well as the latest tools and techniques made possible by the shift to digital. If you're an experienced film photographer, you'll see how to translate the knowledge you already have into the digital realm.

Features:
* Includes completely revised and updated coverage
* Provides new, detailed coverage of camera evaluation, including the latest technologies and affordable SLR cameras
* Includes completely re-written explanations and examples of metering and exposure, including hands-on tutorials
* Covers Photoshop CS and of Photoshop Elements 2.0
* Includes many new tutorials on improved methods for correcting and enhancing photos, and addresses the most common types of corrections users want to make
* Provides new and expanded coverage of the basic questions camera purchasers have, including how many pixels are needed, how to reduce red eye, shooting inside versus outside, etc.

ON THE CD-ROM
• Tutorials: All of the files needed to use the book’s tutorials as well as additional QuickTime tutorial movies and PDF tutorial articles
• Software Demos: Adobe Photoshop CS, IView MediaPro, and PhotoRescue
• Images: Color versions of most of the images in the book to examine on-screen or to print

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
To work through the tutorials in the book, you will need Photoshop CS (a demo is included on the CD). WINDOWS: Intel® Pentium® II or better; Microsoft® Windows® 2000 with Service Pack 3, or Windows XP; 192MB of RAM (256MB recommended); 300MB of available drive space; Color monitor with 16- bit color card or better; CD-ROM drive. MACINTOSH: PowerPC® G3 or better; Mac OS X v. 10.2.4 or better; 192MB of RAM (256MB recommended); 350MB of available drive space; color monitor with 16- bit color support, or better; CD-ROM drive. Please check the individual demos for specifics ... Read more

Reviews (24)

Complete Digital Photography IS Complete
As an instructor of Photography and Digital Imagaging, I have found it difficult to recommend texbooks that incorporate ALL the most important points of capturing, transmitting, printing, storing, archiving, and retrieving digital images. I generally need to list several titles to cover these various topics. Ben Long not only does the job with the Complete Digital Photgraphy, but he does it in a very concise, logical and easy to comprehend manner. This book is timely, informative, accurate and thorough. I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to jump into to the art of digital photography. I especially praise its use for instructional value. I am replacing next year's text with this one.

Very STRONG book
I'm a professional photographer, and when I decided to go digital, I bought about a dozen books on the subject. This one leaves the others in the dust.

One of its greatest strengths is that the author explains digital by referencing film photography. This allows quick understanding of the new by comparing it to the familiar.

But if you're new to photography, this book is still for you. The author has a real gift for explaining complicated processes in a way that makes them easy to understand and utilize. And he covers what you need to know, without putting the pro to sleep.

I read omniverously, but I'm rarely impressed enough to write a review. If I could only keep one book on photography -- digital or film -- this would be it.

And thank you to the author for insisting that digital photography is created with a digital camera, NOT a scanner. I am SO tired of books that are supposedly about digital photography which are really about digital manipulation of film photography.

Do yourself a big favor: if you're interested in this subject, buy this book. You won't be disappointed.

2nd Edition issued December 2002
I plowed through the book in just one week of evening sessions. The author tried to keep the discussion of camera features in the first part of the book to to a generalized level that is fairly current (as of 1/03), It does a decent job helping both digital imaging novices and non-pro film photography converts grasp the fundamentals. I fall in both of these catagories so I felt it was well written for my level of pre-existing knowledge. In the second part of the book where he delved into photo manipulation software I was frustrated by the fact that the Photoshop Elements 2.0 tryout software included on the second edition CD did not have some of the tools that he uses in text and the tutorials, such as Curves and Channels. He kept mentioning that any brand imaging software should have all the tools he used so one does not have to get the full version of Photoshop. Not True. I now realize that the PS Elements 2.0 demo (30 days use) included must have been a last minute addition. I did find his beloved Curves tool on the limited version of Photoshop 5.0 that came with my camera but otherwise this version of PS was lacking in the layering features that the author uses in all his tutorials and was inadequate to follow his examples. The Video segments (about 30 minutes) on the CD provided a nice "over the shoulder" demo of several of the editing features as used by the author. His on the screen cursor disappeared at times while he was pointing out details which made it harder to follow his verbal explanations. This book is definately just an introductory guide to image manipulation software so I have ordered two more books and PS Elements 2.0.

Great book (1st edition)
Although I have the first edition, it is really excellent and explains the technical aspects of digital photography with great clarity. I am anxious to see the newer edition's updates on How To Choose A Digital Camera since so much has changed in the past 3 years, but otherwise the 1st edition is sufficient for my needs.

Great book!
I liked this book very much. It had just about everything I needed to know. I recommend it highly. ... Read more

Book Description

The latest edition to join Martin Evening's bestselling 'Adobe Photoshop for Photographers' titles, gives you completely updated and revised coverage providing a professional photographer's insight into Photoshop CS2.

Inside you'll find invaluable information on Bridge, the new file browser that is set to become a very useful image management tool for photographers. Other new developments covered include the new Digital Negative (DNG) file format, improvements in Camera Raw file processing and High Dynamic Range imaging.

Packed full of all the latest features and instructive information on key elements from color management to printing, Martin Evening passes on his famous techniques and professional experience in this commanding and authoritative resource.

Martin Evening was a Photoshop CS2 alpha tester and worked on the development program from the very early stages.

The Adobe Photoshop for Photographers series of books have consistently been in the top best-seller lists for over seven years and is now in its seventh edition.

704 pages of fully updated content plus 30 pages of Photoshop Shortcuts on the free CD-ROM.

Includes all the basics such as how to open and save an image and adjust the contrast and color.

Digital capture devices: how to choose the right scanner or camera.

More than 300 pages of information show you how to make tonal corrections, sharpen images, use filters, create montages, simulate darkroom effects and automate Photoshop.

Over 100 pages devoted to explaining the basic principles of color management, how to calibrate your equipment and how to achieve consistent color and produce perfect prints.

* Over 450 professional, color illustrations make this book stand above the rest
* New interior design and reorganised contents make this book even easier to use
* Master the power of Photoshop CS2 under the instruction of an internationally recognised Photoshop expert ... Read more

Book Description

If you're ready to get serious about editing video, this best-selling, Apple-certified guide to Final Cut Pro is the best place to start. Master trainer Diana Weynand starts with basic video editing techniques and takes you all the way through Final Cut Pro's powerful advanced features, delivering comprehensive training--the equivalent of a five-day course--in one project-based book. Each chapter presents a complete lesson in an aspect of video editing and finishing, with hands-on projects for you to complete as you go. All the files you need are on the DVD-ROM. After getting acquainted with the software's interface, you'll learn how to mark and edit clips, insert and adjust edits, and work with clips on the timeline, before moving on to complex topics like creating transitions and motion effects, real-time color correcting, and titling techniques. Previously published as Final Cut Pro 4, this revision has been updated for the HD interface.

Publisher¿s NoteIf you previously purchased Apple Pro Training Series: Final Cut Pro 4, there is no need to purchase this revision: All the project files and exercises in the previous edition can be used with Final Cut Pro HD.

Book Description

Currently with no other book on digital SLR photography, photo enthusiasts have had to rely on books that concentrate only on aspects of the technology that are peripherally related to picture-taking.This book uniquely concentrates on creative techniques for the digital SLR photographer. Photography with Digital SLR and SLR-like cameras isnt exactly like conventional film SLR photography; nor is it exactly like digital photography with non-SLR cameras. DSLRs have special advantages, special features, and special problems that need to be addressed and embraced. In addition, users of these cameras tend to expect more from their photography and crave the kind of information that will let them wring every ounce of creativity out of their equipment. Anyone who has a Windows PC or Macintosh and a digital SLR camera will find advanced techniques in this book. Readers will cover various aspects of DSLRs including: why DSLRs work best for creative posing for group and individual portraits, using DSLRs to capture close-up scenes on the desktop using the digital cameras special capabilities, how to get great travel photos with a DSLR, and how to archive them when far from a computer. ... Read more

Book Description

Today's digital cameras are affordable and provide quality images that rival their traditional film counterparts. Because digital images are easier to share, and because you only have to print the pictures you need, this new medium is both cost effective and environmentally friendly. Best of all, it's fun! With a digital camera, you can set free your creative spirit and take risks you never would with a film camera. The only obstacle is learning how to unlock all or this power and pleasure packed into these pocket-sized picture takers. Digital Photography Pocket Guide, 2nd Edition expands on the basic photography techniques introduced in the bestselling first edition to help you take the kind of pictures you've always wanted to--and now in full color! This book is the photo mentor you've always wanted: it explains each of the camera's components, shows you what they do, and then helps you choose the right settings. When you ask, "How can I get that picture?", simply pull this small guide out of your camera bag, backpack, or back pocket and find the answer quickly. This fully illustrated book covers everything from image resolution,shooting sports action, close ups and night shots, to memory cards, transferring images, archiving, making QuickTime movies, and much more. Topics in the guide's three main sections on "Digital Camera Components","Standard Camera Functions", and "How Do I?" are labeled A to Z for quick reference. Or if you prefer, use the comprehensive index or table of contents to find the information you need. There's even an entire section of easy to read reference tables for quick look up of white balance settings, exposure compensation, camera mode explanations, and much more. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Lightweight and quick reading for busy folks
Thank goodness for the digital camera. People like me with a lousy eye can take hundreds of photos and experiment until our eyes fall out and get a couple of gems. Despite my left-handedness, I don't have a natural eye for photography, art, or anything of the sort. It all went into writing.

With three kids, photos are important to me as I want to take capture many times of their lives so we may reflect on them with a visual aid. A good photo does make a difference. Again, three kids, who has time to read a book or take a class to become one with a camera? This pocket guide fills that need.

It has three chapters with quick reference tables in the back of the book. It's small enough to fit into your camera bag, laptop case, briefcase, suitcase, or jacket pocket. The chapters address what is it, what do I do, and how do I questions.

What is it covers the basic, intermediate, and advanced features found on digital cameras. It's the shortest chapter as once you get familiar with the features, you won't need the chapter anymore and you still have roughly 85 pages of material to support you when you're out there trying to capture the world you see.

Once you've conquered the buttons and figured out what most of the symbols and modes mean, you're ready to dig deeper into the features and gain control of the camera with answers to your what does it do types of questions relating to exposure and flash compensation, white balance, ISO speed, and resolution.

The last chapter is more free flowing as you and the camera have become one. Get tips on taking outdoor and group shots including sporting events where players are moving fast. Capture kids, travel spots, and wedding memories with class as kids grow up, you may not return to the same places, and weddings happen only once (we would hope unless it's a renewal of vows).

Adding this book to your camera bag is a step toward to better pictures and better understanding of those fancy photography terms, which aren't a big deal after you read author Derrick Story's simple and clear explanations.

O'Reilly Digital Studio at its best
I love this book and I will try to share why...

First I will tell you why this book is good for me and then you decide if it is good for you! First few words about me:

I am not a professional photographer -- I am a professional web developer! I do not know much about aperture, exposure, white balance, etc. I am a newly-minted father whose task is to launch a new website with new photos of his beautiful daughter taken with a newly purchased Canon digital camera... All these new things can be daunting.

Here comes help from O'Reilly. I know O'Reilly for their wonderful computer books. I did not know O'Reilly could deliver such high quality consumer information for digital media novices and professionals alike.

The book tells you:

1. The basics of your digital camera.
2. How to operate it and take full advantage of its features.
3. How to achieve success with specific tasks: taking outdoor portraits, taking interesting children shots (try taking a photo of a three-week old baby!), creative architecture shots, landscapes that would make you feel like a pro, and so on...

Last but not least, the book shares computer tips and tricks which would be helpful for any digital camera user, whether professional or amateur: working with RAW files, sending and archiving photos and preparing them for print.

The quick reference tables listed in the appendix of this wonderful pocket guide alone would justify its gentle price ($14.95 in the US):

- exposure compensation reference guide
- flash mode settings
- white balance settings
- metering modes explained in plain English
- camera modes explained in plain English
- reference of number of pictures per memory card depending on its capacity
- etc, etc.

If you spend $300+ on a decent digital camera and all you can use is just its basic auto modes, you are not doing yourself and your camera justice. For less than $15 more with the help of O'Reilly and this pleasantly witty and informative guide written by Derrick Story, you would multiple the value of your digital photography investment -- by taking, storing and sharing better photos quicker and with higher quality and artistry!

Perfect for quickly learning how to take great pictures...
You got a digital camera for Christmas, and you're now wanting to figure out how to shoot pictures that will cause everyone to go "ooohhh!". Your manual will get you familiar with the technical aspects of your new toy, but you should also learn about how to properly frame and expose your shots. To do that, get a copy of Digital Photography Pocket Guide by Derrick Story. It's a great little (113 pages) book that will quickly and concisely convey the information you'll need to take perfect pictures. The first half of the book covers the different features of the camera, such as file formats, spot meters, and white balance. The second half is a "How Do I" series that will help you figure out specific picture taken scenarios, such as capturing action shots, shooting good self-portraits, and taking pictures at weddings. The final ten pages are tables of ISO speeds and exposure settings for certain conditions.

All in all, the book is a perfect way to quickly understand both your camera and the science of photography. There are definitely books that are more comprehensive, but none that are as practical in as short a volume as you'll find here. ... Read more

Book Description

Peter K. Burian, co-author of the best-selling how-to guide for film photographers, "The National Geographic Photography Field Guide", has now written a full-color book devoted to digital image creation. In "Mastering Digital Photography and Imaging", he covers all the essentials for digital photographers, including digital camera and scanner technology, capture techniques, choosing software, image optimization, color management, and output. Written by a photographer and filled with practical advice and expert tips, this comprehensive reference is designed to give you expert knowledge, not just information. If you are a photography enthusiast moving from traditional photography to digital, or if you're just interested in learning more about digital photography for work or for fun, this one-of-a-kind book was written for you! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A thoroughly detailed, "user friendly" tutorial
Mastering Digital Photography And Imaging by digital photography expert Peter K. Burian is a full-color, thoroughly detailed, "user friendly" tutorial to making the most of a digital camera or scanner, as well as affordable image-editing software. Specifically intended to aid digital imagers of all skill and experience levels, the individual chapters include cogent and practical advice for selecting the right scanner, image-editing software, and printer, techniques for getting high-quality scans from prints, slides, or negatives, professional-quality methods for fine-tuning digital images, and so much more. Mastering Digital Photography And Imaging is confidently recommended as a truly superb all-around reference, resource, and self-teaching tool.

A digital gold mine
When it comes to digital technology I'm still operating in the Cretaceous Period and yet I found this book easy to understand,
comprehensive and a pleasure to read. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Avoid the time-consuming task of image editing by taking great pictures from the get-go.Dave Huss walks you through the fundamentals of taking great digital photographs by dispelling digital photography myths and teaching you how to maximize all camera features available to you. Discover how to take clear, sharp, professional-level photographs every time; use light wisely; use flash photography to your advantage; match your camera to your computer; share your photos, and much more. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellent Guide for the Beginning Photographer
This book is a great resource for someone looking to learn more about digital photography. It is especially helpful if you have a camera that is more than just a "point and shoot" and can change your settings manually. The chapters are very well organized by topic and are filled with professional tips for getting the most out of your camera. Everything is explained in language that an inexperienced photographer can understand, and the text is accompanied by many full-color illustrations. While many other books that purport to be overviews of digital photography devote a lot of pages to "post-processing" images with software (like Adobe Photoshop), this book focuses almost entirely on the art of composing and taking good pictures.

Superb Resource for all Digital Photographers
I bought this book for my son, who is new to digital photography. After receiving the book, I quickly realized that it would be a superb single-volume resource for all persons interested in digital photography, whether newcomers or more experienced professionals. So, I immediately ordered a second copy for my own use. The book is well-organized and packed with helpful hints, notes and warnings. The reader can quickly locate a topic of particular interest and find numerous photo images which portray the finer points of digital photography. At the same time, the novice will find the text very readable, user-friendly and easy to follow. ... Read more

Book Description

"Digital Wedding Photography" offers readers an introduction to wedding photography, assuming that they have some familiarity with their cameras and computers but are not experts. It provides readers with information about the skills they will need to take great wedding photos in the digital age, including selecting the correct lenses and digital equipment, as well as the most appropriate digital imaging techniques. This book also looks at the various ways of presenting the material to the happy couple and their friends and relatives. It presents the material in a step-by-step format, ideal for photography topics. Weddings offer limited opportunity for aspiring photographers to prove and improve their skill. Preparation is everything and thats exactly what this book focuses on. ... Read more

Book Description

Adobe Photoshop Elements 3: 50 Cool Ways to Create Cool Pictures covers all the new tools that Photoshop Elements 3 has to offer users of all levels who want to edit, store, share, and archive their digital images. Photoshop Elements 3 includes new edge tools, easier organization and layout tools, and better tools for red-eye reduction. With a focus on what the average photographer really wants to learn, author Dave Huss covers all of these tools in this practical, fun guide to learning Photoshop Elements 3. This book covers both the Macintosh and Windows versions of Photoshop Elements 3.

Book Description

Produce the kind of images that would otherwise demand a professional photographer or darkroom—or both. Through a series of tutorial projects, author Julie Adair King shows readers how to light shots, choose the right camera settings, use camera accessories and photographic software, and much more.You’ll learn step-by-step to use your existing digital camera for professional results. Set up a home studio, create a 360-degree panoramic image, learn low light and action photography, work in black and white, and adopt many other professional techniques. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Expertly shows just how to light shots
Through a series of tutorial projects, Julie King's Shoot Like A Pro! Digital Photography Techniques expertly shows just how to light shots, choose the right camera settings, use camera accessories and photographic software, and so much more. Shoot Like A Pro! Digital Photography Techniques deftly explains how to set up a home studio, create a 360-degree panoramic image, work in low light, action photography, black and white, and a great many other professional techniques. This 256-page compendium is very highly recommended for amateur and professional photography instructional reference collections. ... Read more

Book Description

If you want to work with your traditional film images electronically, this is the guide that will finally show you how you can do it. "Mastering Digital Scanning" takes a photographers viewpoint to the topic of digitizing, managing, and enhancing film-based images. Youll learn how to use your scanner's options to your best advantage and how to perfect your image once it becomes digital. You dont have to give up the advantages of conventional photography to enjoy the ease of digital manipulation! ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Exactly what I was looking for in this book
I had some experience in scanning slides and negs, but this book helped me a lot. It had exactly what I was looking for in terms of information, explanations, tricks, techniques, and background material. I believe this is the only book being sold that is dedicated to film and slide scanning for the "average Joe" so anyone who wants to improve their scans should look no further.

Comprehensive look at film and negative capture
This is an excellent introduction to capturing digital images of transparencies and negatives, but it also serves as a valuable resource for the more experienced worker. It includes everything you wanted to know about this topic, and quite a few things you did not know you needed to understand, so I'd say this was a very comprehensive book. I can't recommend it highly enough to everyone interested in scanning.

Best scanning book I've seen.
I'm an experienced 35mm photographer switching to digital scanning, and I found this book to be the perfect complement to my scanner's rather basic instruction manual. In a clear and straightforward manner, it addresses a wide multitude of scanning situations, from the most basic to the most complex. Each of the things you need to know is concisely explained and extremely well illustrated in a most logical progression of sections. The table of contents and index are wonderfully comprehensive and make finding what you want as simple as possible. I'm very pleased that all of the illustrations were are color. All in all, this book is most highly recommended for both the beginner and advanced scanner users.

Great introduction to film scanning!
Wonderful book. Lots of solid information about scanning slides and negatives, well presented, good illustrations, plenty of ideas on what to do with your scans. Anyone who wants to learn more about scanning can't go wrong with this book. Tells about scanning with both flatbed scanners and film scanners, and I own both, so this worked for me. I've been scanning for more than a year now, and still managed to learn some valuable tips. It helped me get improved results.

Very good scanning book.
I looked all over for a book about scanning slides and was very glad to find this one. It had all the info I needed and was very easy to understand. This book is good for beginners and intermediate readers, because it contains both good introductory material as well as more advanced tips and tricks to help you get the best quality scans from your film.

I liked the software recommendations and description of how film scanning works. I was able to get better results scanning slides with both my Nikon film scanner and Epson flatbed scanner after I read this book. Thanks for a great book. ... Read more

Book Description

Suitable for all level of techniques, this is the ultimate photographic handbook for the 21st century! This handbook encourages traditional photographers to experiment with new technology while inspiring experienced users to reach new heights. Readers learn how to get the most out of this new technology that's transforming the world of photography. From improving casual snapshots to learning the secrets of lighting, composition, and digital image manipulation, this book provides a practical, yet in--depth approach on producing better photographs. The Digital Photographer's Handbook includes comprehensive information on the most up--to--date equipment, software, and accessories. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

One of the digicam/image editing books I've seen!
As a relatively novice photographer (haven't owned one since my old Brownie Hawkeye) with some knowledge of computers and a new digital camera, I've been working my way through as many books on digicams and image-editing software as I can find. Some are pretty general, some are more specialized, but most seem to repeat the same mostly superficial information and advice on both photography and digital editing. This book is the great exception! Ang is a very talented photographer and this lushly printed... volume is crammed with his work, but he's also a very good teacher. The first part of the book, under the heading of "Total Photography," is a mini-course in types of cameras and lenses, lighting, optical physics, and the essential practical differences in using film-based and digital cameras. (There's also a survey of information on specific models of cameras, printers, and scanners, which will soon be outdated and which might have been omitted.) The second section, "Photography for the Digital Age," leads you through such topics as composition, zoom, optical distortion, color balance, and how to avoid or at least fix the most common mistakes; I learned a great deal from his clear explanations and visual examples. "A Compendium of Ideas" is almost a separate book, being an excursion through all the major categories of subjects that interest people with cameras, from buildings and travel to microphotography and high-speed sports; you'll want to return to this section now and then for leisurely browsing. "Radical Conversions" and "All about Image Manipulation" are worth the price of the book all by themselves, with very clear and often very detailed discussions of issues which I'm sure are old hat to experienced shutterbugs but which are new and often perplexing to me, including proper cropping, burning-in and dodging, sharpening, blurring, cross-processing, color vs. black-and-white, and lots of others. Ang is quite good at balancing received photographic wisdom with new digital ideas. He also gets deeply into such computer-specific subjects as levels, cloning, and the differences and similarities between channels, layers, and masks. (He seems not to have much use for such glitzy effects-filter tricks as stained glass and embossing filters, with which I have to agree.) "The Output Adventure" is very good on getting the color on your monitor to agree with the color your printer produces, and there's a final section on portfolios, copyrights, and the business of photography. I can't recommend this one highly enough.

New to (digital) photography? This is a great book!
A large portion of my work entails dealing with image manipulation on computers. I am very comfortable with Adobe Photoshop and other similar software programs, but I have never used an SLR camera, let alone a digital one. Although the first chapter was information I already knew about the technology aspect of digital photography, it would be great reading for someone who is new to the subject. I'll agree, the software emphasis is on Macs, but that's because if you know anyone who does any publishing work, they use a Mac.

The most useful and easily the best reason to own this book are the example photos. They are all in exquistite color! Heck, even if you could care less about digital photography or how to get the most out of your camera, this would make an excellent coffee table book because of the beautiful pictures alone. Each concept is beautifully illustrated with great example photos and explained in detail.

More Great Amazon Service
This was my second photography book purchase from Amazon in a month and again, the book is very good, the price is great (good bye Barnes & Noble) and again, Amazon's service is EXCELLENT !!!

Sumptuous production; flawed attempt at trying to do it all.
This is a beautifully produced collection of digital images, deserving of a place on the coffeetable. The author - a wellknown photographer and teacher - made a valiant attempt at covering the entire digital imaging field. Unfortunately, that includes a (long outdated) discourse on digital cameras, computers (current crop of PCs does as fine a graphics job as do Mac's), camera and computer purchase recommendations (ie, get a Mac). Well-illustrated sections on how digital cameras transform light into pixels are diluted in impact by 'how a computer works' and so on. The section 'Image Manipulation' is very well done with good screen shots on quality paper and sufficient detail to take a stab at it. Yet a beginning digital photographer will find even that excellent section lacking in how-to-to-get-started advice. The exhaustive sections on various photographic techniques (landscapes, portraits, closeups, buildings, animals and humans in the wild, etc) again are sumptuously and lavishly illustrated, but speak in sweeping generalities rather than in detailed specifics. I also was put off by the substantial bookspace taken up by scanning of film negatives and prints - whereas the title leads one to assume the text exclusively addresses digital photography. Overall: a beautifully produced idea book for advanced photographers -- but it is neither a tutorial nor a teaching manual.

Great for beginners as well as advanced photographers.
A year ago I transitioned into digital photography, prior to which I used regular cameras (pocket as well as sophisticated) for years. I found Mr. Ang's book perfect for a mixed audience, as it covers basics as well as advanced concepts, all well illustrated with pictures. The color pictures really trigger ideas about what is possible with your own photographs.

A full 20 -30 percent of the book is devoted to what technology can help you do once the picture is taken i.e. using software. That is so critical in digital photography - and Mr. Ang gives umpteen examples and tips.

This is the kind of book you will use as a reference constantly. It is not for sitting down and reading from beginning to end - but using different parts as you mature into digital photography.

I borrowed it from my local library, and eventually bought it - even though I have several digital photography books already.

I definitely recomend this guide - especially at the fantastic Amazon price (cheaper than the store). ... Read more

Book Description

• An 816-page All-in-One guide designed for both beginning and experienced digital photographers, offering seven minibooks on everything from buying a camera and choosing the right equipment to editing with high-end tools and restoring photos digitally
• Includes chapters on basics such as point-and-shoot photography, with later chapters exploring editing, printing, and shooting portraits or high-speed action
• This new edition covers the latest technology changes in digital photography, including Photoshop 7, new low-priced SLR cameras, updated storage and output options with DVD technology, and how each of these changes affects photography techniques
• David Busch is the author of more than fifty technology books, most covering digital photography, image editing, and digital restoration

Reviews (22)

Takes Digital Photography to the Next Level!
Dummies books always make good introductions to a topic, but this thick book really dives deeply into digital photography. Most digital photography books ignore the photography aspect in favor of techie discussions of hardware, sensors, and gadgets. Either that, or they expend most of their pages discussing image editing rather than photography.

This one covers all the bases. I loved the extensive chapter on shooting sports and action photos, the detailed coverage of portraiture, a very nice discussion of useful tricks for getting the best travel pictures, and an in-depth discussion of close-up photography. All of it relates to the special capabilities and needs of digital photography, too.

There's plenty of information on image-editing, too, for those who want to know how to fine-tune their digital images. I even liked the chapter on scanning.

Everything is well-organized into separate "books" which each have meaty chapters dealing with a specific topic. It's easy to zip through the table of contents and find the exact information you need. This is one of my favorite Dummies books!

True All-in-One Reference for Digital Photography!
This is one all-in-one book that is truly comprehensive! I was surprised at both the breadth and depth of coverage. I really liked the approach, too. The first section, "Book I" contains chapters that quickly summarize the essentials of digital photogaphy and image editing, providing both overviews and helpful advice. This part would make a pretty good stand-alone pocket reference on its own. The same topics are covered in more depth in later chapters of the book, but without needless repetition. The later sections pick up where the introductory chapters leave off.
Book II is a useful set of chapters on building your own digital photography studio, with lots of advice on selecting equipment and accessories. Book III has pro-level advice on taking great photos, with long, detailed chapters on close-up photography, sports, travel, portraiture, and shooting for publication. The other books show you how to edit and restore digital photographs with applications like Photoshop Elements, Photoshop, and Paint Shop Pro.
All in all, I loved this book. If you're going to buy only one book on digital photography, this is the one you need.

I'm using this as a textbook in my classes.
I teach digital photography at a community college, both for college credit and in evening adult education classes, and have found this book to be the perfect textbook for my beginner and intermediate courses. The first Overview book is about 82 pages long, and provides a good introduction to digital photography. My students learn a little about digital equipment, how to acquire photos, do simple editing, organize them, and make prints. I generally either skip the second book or assign it for extra credit, because it talks about choosing a camera and accessories, setting up a computer, and working with printers and scanners.

The Taking Great Pictures chapters in the third book are the core of my curriculum for both the beginner and intermediate classes, as the content is easy to understand, explains photographic techniques clearly, and can be applied by any digital photographer. The beginner classes simply receive less challenging picture taking assignments, as they work with composition, close-ups, portraits, and sports photography. They also get a lot of use out of the section on scenic photography, as the landscapes here are spectacular.

The beginner classes stop when they finish the fourth book on the Basics of Image Editing. The more advanced image editing chapters, which use Adobe Photoshop Elements, are reserved for the intermediate classes. I do put both groups to work learning to restore old photos, because everyone seems to enjoy this.

All in all I have found this book to be a wonderful learning tool, and like it better than traditional textbooks for teaching digital photography.

Excellent whether you're a beginner...or not.
This book is easy to read, has plenty of examples, tells you what to do to get good composition, talks about how digital cameras can get great photos, and much more. I have read the "Complete Idiot's" version of Digital Photography and while that book was OK, this one covers more information that I was looking for, particularly how to store and archive/organize digital photos as well as go into impressive detail on a lot of basic photography stuff. While this book isn't perfect, it's very, very good for a beginner to intermediate user and is fun to read. I have learned a lot so far. Also, it helps to have different books to read on the same subject of digital photography and this is a welcome edition to that learning "package."

I've looked at other books besides the Dummies and Idiots guides, and this may be the most complete reference to date for digital photography. There's lots of stuff in the book that pertains to ANY kind of photography. If photographers use the book the way Dummies books are really meant to be used--by turning to the topic that most interests them at the moment, or the part that will help them with a specific (photographic) problem--they'll find plenty of valuable information. One thing they won't find, however, is much about setting f-stops and shutter speeds (though there's quite a bit about the connection between film speed and shutter speed). But then most digital photographers just put their cameras on "P" (for program) and let the camera make those settings for them! While the reading and presentation is easy, the depth of material is actually surprisingly thorough. Beginning, or even some advanced photographers, will be referring to this book more than once, over time.. Hey, where was this book when I started in photography?

More like 3 books in 1, but all are good!
This book purports to be "7 books in 1" but that's stretching it a bit. There are actually three solid books within its 686 pages, all of them pretty darned good. One deals with getting started in digital photography, with lots of information on selecting a camera, setting up your computer, getting photos from your camera into your computer, and using accessories including tripods, scanners, and printers. The second book is a thick collection of chapters that deal with basic photography. Beginners will love this introduction to picture taking techniques, with how-to advice on close ups, sports, portraits, travel, and other topics. The third book deals with image editing, primarily using Adobe Photoshop and Elements, but also mentioning some competing programs so you can decide which one is best for you.

All three "books" are very complete and written in the usual entertaining Dummies style. After you've gone through this material, you'll probably want a more advanced book to really immerse yourself further, but I felt that this Desk Reference lived up to its name. It's a great volume to have sitting on your desk when you want to refresh yourself about a particular topic. ... Read more

Book Description

Showcasing the breathtaking work of French digital artists, Creating Photomontages with Photoshop: A Designer's Notebook will both inspire and educate as you explore the endless photomontage possibilities with Photoshop.Translated from French into English for the first time, this lavish collection of groundbreaking digital creations by well-known French artists is a visual smorgasbord for digital imaging professionals, graphic artists, photographers, and anyone involved in the creation of digital images or animations. Photomontages are multiple images artfully combined. When joined together, they assume a new and more complex definition that, if done well, is both believable and aesthetically thrilling. The stunning digital photomontages within this book offer a challenging and beautiful glimpse into a vibrant culture known for pushing the limits of imagination with photography, graphics, and art. Filled with splendor, energy, and creative risks, the images will change the way you see and perform your own work.But Creating Photomontages with Photoshop: A Designer's Notebook is more than a full-color feast for the eyes. It gives intermediate-to-advanced Photoshop users invaluable guidance through all aspects of the photomontage creation process--from an initial concept (including inspiration and specifications) through its step-by-step practical execution (photographing, retouching, special effects, and so forth)--and provides insight into the vision behind each creation and how that vision evolved to became a dynamic reality. This one-of-a-kind collection will compel you to explore new and inventive techniques for Photoshop, one of the most vital, powerful, and sophisticated tools in the graphics industry. Your photography, illustrations, advertisements, animations, and art-for-art's-sake creations will never again be the same.Reflecting the very best of French graphic design and digital graphics professionals, this book takes you to the heart of what's possible with photomontage and digital technology through Photoshop. It is suitable for your coffee table or your desktop--wherever you most thrive on creative inspiration. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (6)

Worthwhile
This book really helped me figure out how to use this camera. If I hadn't bought this book it would have been a much greater challenge.

Very Helpful
I recently sold my Rebel 2000 camera and bought the Digital Rebel. Since the Magic Lantern for the 2000 was so helpful, I ordered this book and I am glad I did! This book was even better than the book on my old camera. It helped me figure out things about using a digital camera that I just didn't understand at all, like resolution, file types, what is best for what use, etc. The camera's instruction book did not explain these things in ways that I could get a grasp of and this book did a great job. I would highly recommend this to anyone from both the perspective of understanding the digital side to learning all about camera controls. It is well worth the money because it will add to your enjoyment of the camera

Great Guide for a Digital Rebel Owner
I just bought my first digital SLR, the Digital Rebel, and I am an enthusiastic amateur. I found this book seemed to be written for me, the photographer, and not the long-time digital pro. It gave me far more than the manual did, with a lot of really helpful photography tips beyond the camera basics. The author seems to really know the camera as he does more than simply report on the features but also comments on them to make them easier for people like me to use them.

Info the Manual Does Not Have
I don't understand why people can be so arrogant about books they don't like. I thought this was a tremendous help for me. It illustrates so much that the manual covers in such a basic way. There is stuff in here that evidently Canon doesn't even know because it is not in the manual, such as how to make the review image stay on screen regardless of the time set for review. This book saved me a lot of time in getting to know this camera and is well worth its low price. Plus it gives a lot of great how-to advice that I can't imagine any manual including.

Magic Lantern Guide: Canon EOS Digital Rebel
Don't buy this book. It has absolutely nothing to offer unless you don't have the manuals that came with the camera. There is nothing interactive and no hands-on lessons to help you to better understand the camera. Stick with what you already have and practice rather than buy this worthless book. ... Read more