Book Description

If you want to get to grips with the editing, either in film or video, this book sets down, in a simple uncomplicated way, the fundamental knowledge you will need to make a good edit between two shots.

Intended primarily for the novice to the craft of editing, Grammar of the Edit, is couched in basic, jargon-free, language, illustrated by easy to follow diagrams

The book:
* explains in simple terms the fundamental components of an edit
* lists, examines and explains the conventions and working practices of post-production editing
* has been extensively class-tested, both in Europe and in developing countries

Roy Thompson is a freelance producer/director and has frequently worked as a trainer for both the Television Training Centre, Berlin and the Goethe Institut, Munich. He has lectured extensively in Europe, Africa, and Middle & Far Eastern countries.

*Gain a comprehensive understanding of editing in both TV and video

*Easy jargon free step-by-step guide to making a good edit between two shots ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Fantastic Book!
This is an excellent book which meets its purpose well: providing all the important information you need to dive into the greatest format there is in photography: the view camera.

It's important to note that this book is not titled "How To Be An Artist" - this isn't at all the point of the book. Too many people are interested in being 'creative' before they have a clue technically as to what they're doing, which wrecks a lot of photography that could be excellent. I teach large format photography, and the skills taught in this book are absolutly essential to the technical aspects of the large format camera as a necessary step BEFORE the creative aspect.

This book explores the endless possibilities in shooting with a view camera; possibilities that are nearly never available to those shooting smaller formats. Everything is covered in the book from shooting to processing to printing, in an easy-to-read fashion, with excellent photos and diagrams along the way to help guide the reader.

I would recommend this book to all those just becoming interested in the view camera, as well as those who have quite a bit of experience.

A brief introduction to the use of view cameras
This is a thin book designed really to introduce the very basics of view cameras. There are sufficient explanations of the various movements and the reasons for using them, but not much that would really make you want to get out there and get creative. A pity really that most beginning books dont seek to be more inspirational. Most of the information in this book is readily available from a number of individual web sites, and delivered in a more inspiring style.

Excellent into to Large Fomat
As beginer to large format, I was looking for a book that would give me the basics of view cameras and their use. I already have a good foundation of photographic and exposure techniques. I found this book to be just right. No time is wasted discussing basic photography (although a nice intro to the Zone system is included, very basic), and very non-technical introduction to view cameras is presented. There is just enough math and science in this book to make you realize how much you may want to learn. After reading this book just once, I feel I can go out and use a view camera to take a picture.

Everything you need to know
This book is well-written and contains everything you need to know to buy and use a view camera. It contains information that I haven't been able to find anywhere else. It even gives the disadvantages of using a view camera over a newer SLR to help a novice decide whether or not to get into medium/large format photography.

Excellent introduction to large format photography
This book is very well organized. Beginners in the large format world will find all the needed info to select and start using their equipment. Intermediate and advanced shooters will appreciate the detailed technical data next to each photo in the showcase section. ... Read more

Book Description

The hottest, most lucrative trend in wedding photography is gorgeously illustrated and explained in this cutting-edge guide that shows professional photographers-and those aspiring to be-how to create the arty, hip, yet elegant wedding albums sought by today's brides. Images that look like they're from magazines or art galleries fill these inspiring pages. Taken by a highly successful specialist in wedding photography, the pictures tell their unique, romantic story with a visual artistry and excitement that differs from staid, traditional wedding albums of the past. The book explains all the creative techniques-including wedding photojournalism-that produce such compelling pictures, and also fully explores the business side of wedding photography. Everything from finding clients to shooting the event and capturing the heartbeat of the day to selling the album and getting referrals is covered lucidly, with wisdom, authority, and humor-adding up to an immensely useful guide that can transform the career of anyone wanting to break into the profitable field of wedding photography. And for future brides, the book will provide visual inspiration on the must-have photography they want for their big day. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Unbelievable!!
I wish Ms. Cantrell would write more books. I loved this book. While I have been out of wedding photography for a few years, this book got me back in with a new, inspired vision. Not only does she cover the basics of how to shoot a great, realistic wedding, she discusses marketing, bridal shows, how to assemble an album, pricing, and equipment. Every one of her photos carries the camera type, lens used, film used and other details. Here's a hint even if you don't buy the book. Keep an antique wedding album in your display at bridal shows. How could you better communicate the value of photography with that kind of display.

Wedding Photojournalism
The photographs alone would be reason enough for anyone to purchase Bambi's new book, "The Art of Wedding Photography". The images reflect a style both exciting and romantic while retaining the unique emotion of each wedding celebration. Her passion for wedding photography resonates throughout the text. As a wedding photographer myself, this book will be an essential companion to creating and conducting my business. Her work inspired me become a wedding photographer and her book has strengthened my committment to creating unforgettable photographs.

Nice Book
I have a stack of similiar style and price wedding photography books and this one is my favorite.

Phenominal
I've been a casual photography for a few years. I was recently approached to photograph a wedding and after much agonizing I accepted. I immediately began searching for books on wedding photography and saw this one. I must say that the reviews are well deserved! The book is fantastic from beginning to end and just what I like, capturing the event as it happens (true photojournalism). The pictures are phenominal and explanations and techniques are very helpful and an easy read. I am now no longer nervous to shoot weddings thanks to this book! Great Job.

The best wedding photography book out there
Excellent editorial, sound advice, breathtaking photographs.

This book is an excellent resource for someone who is just getting into wedding photography, as well as a seasoned pro.

Although the cover features a traditional pose, the book's focus is photojournalism - the "reportage-style" photography brides go crazy about these days. It also has a chapter on posed wedding pictures, because... well... what mom doesn't want a nicely framed, posed photo of her daughter on her wedding day?

Great work and totally worth the $20 investment (it's actually $30 at bookstores, so this is a great deal!) I read it cover-to-cover right after it arrived and would recommend it to everyone. ... Read more

Book Description

Photographer Peter Hegre and Luba were married in the Summer of 2003. In 250 color photos exuding sensuality and devoid of taboo, this volume is a declaration of unconditional love. Petter Hegre studied photography at the Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara and was an assistant to Richard Avedon. Text in English and German. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

A fantastic book for all digital photographers
'Digital Nature Photography' by Jon Cox is quite simply the best book I have ever read on digital photography of any kind.

It is a must read for anyone who is moving to digital photography either as a hobby or on a professional level. What makes this book so good is that Jon has obviously made the transition from film to digital himself, and writes knowingly about issues anyone will encounter when approaching digital photography. These include such topics as digital media, batteries, tripods, and what quality of jpeg images to use.

Not only does Jon address subject's exclusive to digital photography but the body of the book is a primer on photographic techniques in general. These topics are illustrated with magnificent pictures from Jon's portfolio and will act as an inspiration to photographers at any level. Subject such as how to shoot in snow, how to shoot during sunrise and sunset, and photography after dark are explained in a simple concise style that provide a rode map to success for anyone willing to try his techniques. He even has closed his book with an "assignment sheet" of ideas a budding photographer can work on to master the techniques included in the book.

Weather you are a budding enthusiast or a serious photographer looking for a refresher and some new ideas, I cannot recommend this book more highly.

Artistic
A friend recommended this book to me and I would like to pass on the same recommendation. In a new digital world Cox has not forgotten the importance of creating a strong image. I love that this book offers artistic advice AND gives helpful hints about how to use the digital camera and computer as tools for creating the final image. It seems as though he isn't caught up in digital for the sake of digital. Lately I've seen work from photographers that digitally "enhance" their pictures with tricky photoshop filters, but dismiss the initial content of the piece. It's like the difference between a quality psychological thriller and a movie that relies solely on special effects. Cox stays true to his subject, by making his images as close to what the eye sees and what the mind remembers. His photography is strong for photography's sake and the digital camera just happens to be his tool. He points out all of the benefits a digital camera has to offer, while at the same time offering his advice about constructing an interesting image. I would also like to point out the use of variety in his imagery. It ranges from incredible scenes in Africa, to untouchable icy images in Antartica, but then comes right into your backyard. His backyard shots were just as dynamic as his far away places, which gave me hope for my own photography. It's really kind of funny, actually, that his book is about nature, but taken with digital tools and you would never know it. If you are just starting out with a digital camera or know someone else who is buy them this book!

Straight to the Point
I just wanted to pass along my appreciation for the book, "Digital Nature Photography". I've recently upgraded to a Canon G5 after discovering I had a decent eye while using an old Canon A20. As I made this jump I wanted to understand how to take better nature and landscape photographs, my favorite subjects, and this book came highly recommended by a friend. It cuts straight to the important information and reads very easily. I've gained a lot as a result of reading it.

Also, beneath each photo example the author explains what he was trying to accomplish and how he went about it; not all books do this. This is very helpful. He organizes the book very well. Not only does this make for an easy read, but also works as a great reference guide.

Bottom line: if you enjoy taking digital nature photography and want to get better, pickup this book.

Excellent for switching to digital
This is a great reference for easing your way into digital nature photography. I have been shooting nature on 35mm film for about 20 years and I finally bought a digital SLR camera. Cox explains the new digital terminology so everyone can easily understand it. He gives information about the various camera settings, file formats, white balance and some helpful Photoshop techniques. It was also a good refresher on how depth of field, ISO settings and shutter speeds work to construct a photograph. You can also learn a lot from just looking at his images. He shows different lighting, close-up, landscape and portrait techniques and explains what he did to capture the photograph. If you are new to photography or making the switch to digital this is an excellent book!

Great Reference
I writing again to reiterate how helpful this book as been to me. I've read it once the whole way through and now refer to it all the time as a tool for while I'm shooting. I'm not actually a photographer, but instead use photography as a tool for my painting career. I made the switch to digital a few years ago, to help save time. This book as helped not only to teach me about the use of digital photography, but has given me the added bonus of helpful hints about photography in general from an artistic perspective. In the past my images were over and under exposed, but now I am able to capture the detail I need for painting reference. In addition, Cox has provided helpful hints about photoshop tools, which help to enhance any lack of detail I may have in my initial photograph. Also, his captions with each photograph are extremely useful in understanding how he captured each shot. Thanks, Jon Cox, for writing this book! ... Read more

Book Description

Readers will discover Hasselblad's enormous potential and its comprehensive range of lenses and accessories. Presented in an easily accessible format, this book shows not only the working and manipulation of individual cameras, but also provides insight into the ways in which these superb cameras and their ancillary equipment may be best utilized to create professional quality images. Detailed illustrations of the system dissect the equipment to show how it functions. The Hasselblad Manual also includes 80 photographs from well-known photographers, illustrating a variety of photographic techniques using a Hasselblad Camera.

* Covers new H1 camera system, new XPan II camera, new information about all V system cameras such as 905SWC, the El and 200 camera models
* Explains flash and close-up photography, digital imaging, effective use and operation of lenses.
* Shows the operation and best application of the different cameras for producing high quality images in different situations ... Read more

Reviews (8)

The standard Hasselblad book
Hasselblad cameras have good and bad points. The good points are that they are, through longevity and marketing as well as other qualities, the standard in pro medium format photography, and Hasselblad system items can be rented worldwide: they are reasonably durable, have good optical quality, and lots of system accessories are available. No other medium format system boasts a fifth of all the various items available for the Hasselblad system. Because they are the standard most photographers understand them. Because working pros favor them, prestiege buyers, wannabes, and dilettantes do so as well.

The downside is that they are heavy, noisy, expensive (especially for the lenses which are not so much better than their Japanese counterparts), and can be damaged easily by careless or untutored handling: they are somewhat awkward: and their 6x6 cm format is simply out of sync with standard print sizes (with a 1.2:1 aspect ratio) or 35mm practice (1.5:1), leading to never utilizing the whole negative in practice.

This volume is to all intents and purposes the official unofficial Hasselblad manual of practice. You are getting "100% Standard Tech" here:this is the fountainhead of Hasselblad doctrine. If you've committed to using Hasselblad cameras the Hasselblad way, this book shows you how to do it. You won't find any criticism of any current Hasselblad equipment or any objective "vis-a-vis" here.

If you are looking into whether or not you should choose Hassselblad, this book is essential provided you keep the above in mind. Other books will provide information on other systems. Hasselblad is definitely not for everyone, even everyone without financial impediments to doing so. Large format, 35mm, other MF SLRs and the classic twin lens reflex are all better choices for some uses-and users. However, if you want a visually conspicuous status symbol, it's tough to go very wrong with Hasselblad.

Excellent
This is a thorough review of the Hasselblad system and a great book on general photography as well. It is particularly useful for someone who has a basic camera system and plans to rent additional components as needed. The only criticism is that the illustrations (often wonderful color and black and white photographs by Mr. Wildi) are not referenced directly in the captions. Rather than using "Top, Left, Right, Upper Left "etc., the captions state "the other" image. What other image? You can figure it out fairly quickly, but this needs changing in future additions. I blame the editors.

Perhaps Mr. Wildi could write a section on studio lighting, flash metering and the Visatec system in the next addition as well?

Thank you Mr. Wildi for this wonderful book. It serves as a reference manual, is a joy to read, and is aesthetically enriching: A work of art.

Very Helpful Book!
I purchased this book because I had just bought a used Hasselblad that didn't come with a manual, and discovered it wasn't so easy to guess how to use it. I'm glad I found this book because it has been the biggest help to me so far and I'm not even through reading it. Not only does it explain every camera that Hasselblad ever made and what makes it unique, it goes into detail about all the different accessories and what they do also. This book could just explain how things work and leave it at that, but it does go into detail about why certain parts of the camera work a certain way and for what reason. I now know how to use my Hasselblad and I recommend this book to anyone who needs a little jump start like I did with these great cameras.

A great reference book for the Hasselblad system
I am an amateur photographer and a very new owner of a Hasselblad 501CM kit. This was my first purchase of a Hasselblad camera and a dream come true for me. I am now about to finish reading Hasselblad Manual, which I can highly recommend to any present and future Hasselblad users. I think Hasselblad is very easy to use, but it is a camera with a number of special features, which need explanations to beginners like myself in order to draw the camerafs full potentials. The book explains very clearly what a Hasselblad user should know about those special features and what components in the system are most relevant to his/her individual needs. It also contains a lot of practical advice on the day-to-day use of the camera. I presume it is a big decision to pay a Hasselblad price for a camera (it was for me), particularly as there are so many cheaper Japanese alternatives around. For me, it has proved to be the right decision, and reading Wildifs book enhances the joy to use this great camera. The currently available fifth edition has very up-to-date product information. Hasselblad Manual is the reference book I will continue going back to as my photographic skills hopefully grow.

The perfect Manual
This book has become my Hasselblad BIBLE. It goes into everything you need to know about the entire Hasselblad system, and best of all it explains the entire workings of the different cameras, lenses and accessories in such a wonderfully clear matter. Someone new to the Hasselblad system will read this book and be able to answer any question relating to the system. I often refer back to it, and prefer it even to the Hasselblad manual that came with my camera! It also manages to explain things like the zone system clearly in just a few pages - a topic which entire books have been written about.

A wonderful author with a talent for explaining. I highly recommend! ... Read more

Book Description

Focusing on the techniques needed specifically for the use of infrared to shoot landscapes, this book walks the reader through everything form finding the best locations to how to select the best equipment. More than 50 compelling images are analyzed and used to illustrate tips and techniques. ... Read more

Book Description

Veteran camera assistant Doug Hart describes in this comprehensive technical guide all of the important facets and duties of the first and second camera assistants' jobs. Whether it is feature films, episodic television, documentaries, commercials, or music videos, The Camera Assistant: A Complete Professional Handbook explains both the practice and theory behind it with a concentration on technique rather than equipment. In addition, personal anecdotes from the author's years behind and beside the camera provide insight into this demanding field.

Key topics include film formats and aspect ratios, testing lenses and camera equipment, focus theory, film loading and labeling, scene blocking, marking actors, shooting tips, slating, paperwork, equipment maintenance, set etiquette, and finding work. This is not a camera equipment handbook; it is a comprehensive procedures manual which describes and explains the most important responsibilities of the camera assistant on the set, the theory behind the practice, and the methods that get the job done properly and keep the assistant frequently employed.

Douglas C. Hart has been a freelance first-camera assistant on feature films, documentaries, television shows, and commercials for more than 20 years, including 10 years (and 10 films) as first-camera assistant to Gordon Willis, ASC, as well as work in 42 states and 26 foreign countries. His work includes Presumed Innocent, Hannah and Her Sisters, The Cosby Mysteries, and CBS's Central Park West. He is a member and former president of the International Photographers Local 644, IATSE, and teaches the Camera Assistant Workshops at the International Film and Television Workshops in Rockport, Maine.

Details both the practice and the theory necessary to be a camera assistant.
Concentrates on technique, not equipment.
Serves as a comprehensive manual, which teaches the necessary methods to get the job done and stay employed. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The Camera Assistant - A Complete Pro Handbook (Hart)
This is probably the best handbook for this discipline I've ever seen. I bought a copy when I was in the States three years ago - and it was swiped ! I plan to prescribe this book for my students from 2001 onwards. Well done !

John Hill ctftvs@netactive.co.za

The bible for operating camera personnel!
This book is a complete and highly insightful manual for motion picture camera assistants and operators. It covers the disciplines, techniques, skills and even the politics of the craft. For anyone involved or wanting a fabulous look into the workings of the film industry, buy this book!

This is the new Bible.
Compiled from years of teaching innumerable students at the International Film & Television Workshops in Rockport, ME, this book supercedes all previous texts on the subject. A former President of East Coast Camera Local 644, Hart writes in a manner as readable as it is thorough. Illustrations and appendices are completely useful. This is the new Bible for the working A.C. and anyone seeking to understand how the camera department really functions. ... Read more

Book Description

8 1/2 X 10 In, 96 Pp, 60 Full-Color < Photographs < This Collaboration Between Utah Natives < Is An Intimate Meditation On One of The < Earth's Most Extraordinary Landscapes. < Telford's Spectacular Color Photographs < of Utah's Desert, Canyons, Mesas, Hidden < Waterways, Araches, Anasazi Cliff < Dwellings and Vistas Are Rich With The < Reflected Light That Elevates Rock Into < Sculpture. Terry Tempest Williams' < Stories Celebrate The Legend and Ritual < Surrounding This Sacred Place, Creating < A Compelling New Mythology. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Wonderful
Straight to my heart. If you love the red rocks and enjoy Terry's writing, this is it. The photography is excellent!

Beautiful and Haunting!
Coyote's Canyon is a collection of photography of the Southwestern US, coupled with Terry Tempest Williams's haunting prose. The photographs are, by and large, rich and full of the sense of the desert. The collection of short essays by Williams includes two of my absolute favorite stories about the Southwest--the one about the Man who Buries Poems, and the one about finding the Perfect Kiva. Worth the read, for anyone who yearns for the desert, or who lives there and wants to rediscover an appreciation for its magic, both in photographs and in lyrical prose.

Photos and Tales of Desert Canyons
The book captures a remarkable series of photos of desert canyons. The photos are good enough to keep the book on my office conference table. Ms. Williams' text provides stories of people encountering wilderness at the near edge of mystic experience. ... Read more

Book Description

As the first sub-$1,000 single-lens-reflex digital camera to hit the market, the Canon EOS Digital Rebel opened up a whole new world of quality digital photography for serious amateur and professional shutterbugs just like yourself. Here to make sure you start to take advantage of it the first time you focus in on a subject is a pocket-sized, low-priced ($5!) guide from a master of the medium. In less than 50 pages, you'll find all of the smart, sensible instruction you need to start shooting quality images immediately with your brand-new digital camera. Each page of this tight, bright, four-color guide features a full-page visual, step-by-step instructions, and perhaps a warning or tip at the bottom of the page. Nothing extraneous, just the all-important basics: shooting techniques, Digital Rebel functions and menus, instructions for transferring photos and creating common effects, and more.

Book Description

American Ground Zero is the extraordinary product of one photojournalist's decade-long commitment, a gripping, courageous collection of portraits and interviews of those whose lives were crossed by radioactive fallout.

For twelve years beginning in 1951, the United States government conducted above ground testing of nuclear weapons in the deserts of Nevada. For more than four decades it has tried to cover up the human and environmental devastation wrought by this testing. In American Ground Zero, Carole Gallagher has penetrated the veil of official secrecy and anonymity to document the incredible untold story of the Americans whose misfortune it was to live downwind of the nuclear detonations - those citizens described in a top-secret Atomic Energy Commission memo as "a low-use segment of the population" - and of civilian workers and military personnel exposed to radiation at the Nevada Test Site.

The above ground nuclear testing was "the most prodigiously reckless program of scientific experimentation in United States history," Keith Schneider notes in his foreword to the book. Many of its 126 fallout clouds floated across the American West and eastward with radiation levels comparable to those released at Chernobyl. Yet residents of the downwind areas were consistently told that there was no danger, and were even encouraged to "participate in a moment of history" by coming out to watch these fallout clouds drifting over their homes.

Abandoning her career as a successful New York photographer, Carole Gallagher moved to Utah in 1983 and spent the next seven years networking among radiation survivors' groups and finding people willing to be photographed and tell their story. She covered six downwind states in all, including Test Site workers and atomic veterans. The result is a striking gallery of the undecorated casualties of an undeclared war. Never exploitative, Gallagher's photographs only rarely convey the subjects' considerable physical sufferings: instead, they invite the viewer to witness the beauty and value in these ordinary lives.

Carole Gallagher is a photographer whose work has been shown in galleries and museums around the world. She is currently living in New York City. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Gallagher's book is conduit for voices of the downwinders
I grew up in Northern Arizona on the Utah border. Living close to St George and Cedar City, Utah, we heard rumors of families with unusually high incidents of leukemia and other cancers and the ensuing speculation about the cause. Gallagher's compilation of stories supplies the most human view of the downwinders. She documents a dark and frightening chapter in our goverment's history. Most compelling were the stories of the workers at the test site who were not even afforded the pretense of protection from exposure. I would have appreciated additional focus on the effects of the testing on the Native American tribes in Utah and Northern Arizona.

Gallagher has given us a treasure by documenting the stories of radiation exposure victims who deserve to have their stories told. Once started, I could not stop reading this book and found myself studying each photograph for several minutes before reading the accompanying story.

Thank you Ms. Gallagher for leaving your New York roots, succuming to the fashion dictates of southern Utah and permitting yourself to become the blank slate upon which these stories were etched.

Should be required reading in every school!
I've read and reread this book so many times I've lost count. In addition I've loaned it out to multiple friends just to get them to open their eyes. Each time I read it I'm still amazed at the liberties taken by the military during this period of time. There is so much important information here I could never even scratch the surface in a short review. The poignant stories told by the victims of these nuclear tests (mostly patriotic mormons who felt the govt. could do no wrong) will move you emotionally, besides backing up Gallaghers claims. If you consider yourself a patriot, prepare to have your world shaken. Just buy it, you wont be sorry.

Compassionately denying one's ability to hide truth.
I have had this book for two years. Reading it completely 9 times and countless partial times. Gallagher in her effort "to become a blank slate upon which the stories could be written" has embodied the voice of a people not just a position of personal opinion. Hearing that voice cause's the reader to open there eye's to the stark reality of what "we the people" have allowed to happen. Revealing just how fast the holocost of the WWII was pushed out of the conscientious of the people. Allowing the same mentality that drove the Nazi's, to develope in the country "were that could not happen". Without a doubt this "work" is not for the light hearted. Reality with weight, forces the reader to think. Cause's the reader to question not only the government structure and poilcy's we have let be set but the moral code by which we justify a means to a end. How do you determine who live's and who dies? What and Who determines the worth of a human being? You will be challanged, morally, and emotionally. Carole Gallagher has painted people, words, and pictures together in a way that you will not shake off anytime soon. Personal stories will bury themselve's deep into your heart and mind. You will hear the echoed cry's of a people for which there was no justice, no hope. The bottom line reality is we let it happen. This is "the wake up call" Gallagher presents the reader with. It is very disturbing wake up call.

Carole tells how the Gov't. knew they would kill US Citizens
Carole Gallagher has written the most informative and descriptive book ever about the how the U S Government knew that innocent americans would die from the atomic bomb tests and were considered as GUINEA PIGS for the effects of radiation on humans and how the Government is still, to this day keeping documents top secret that contain information regarding how radiation effects humans when exposed to it, yet we are still being exposed to man made radiation and all for a profit for the corperate world and their bank accounts. This book is a eye opener This is written By a atomic veteran that worked on the atomic bomb while in the U S Air Force (50-54) in underground tunnel systems in New Mexico and Texas and participated in one atomic bomb test at Fort Hood, Texas. During the four (4) years I was in the USAF and has read 28 books on the subject. I was hospitalized six (6) times and treated as a outpatient thirty five (35) times and all I was ever told that there is not enough radiation to harm me. I now have 15 chronic diseases linked to radiation exposure plus cataracts. Carole Gallagher is a great author and cares less whose feet get hurt so the truth can be told. This is a must read Vernon F. Sousa National Association of Atomic Veterans Research Coordinator

Tragic but true story of "downwinders"
Ms Gallagher writes about the A bomb test in Neveda in the 50's and 60's some very disturbing information about the AEC and the DOE. Exactly what was our government trying to prove? ... Read more

Book Description

For 20 years, world-renowned photographer Éric Valli traveled through the Himalaya's treacherous terrain with his camera, tirelessly exploring the breathtaking landscape of dramatic peaks and valleys. He became captivated by the region's quiet and dignified inhabitants, learning their languages and forming personal bonds with them.

This stunning collection of Valli's most beautiful photographs from his time in the Himalaya presents the region's spectacular scenery: steep and narrow pathways, lonely high valleys, dramatic passes at 16,000 feet above sea level, and remote villages seemingly untouched by modernity. But the heart of the book is Valli's images of the Himalayan people, who have remained largely hidden from outsiders in their mountainous land. These intimate photographs capture their daily lives: men plowing through the snow with a caravan of yaks and women preparing meals over open fires, as they have done for centuries. Valli also records the predicaments they face in opening their culture to the modern world. Accompanied by an insightful text by cultural anthropologist Anne de Sales, Valli's images document an awe-inspiring human adventure halfway around the world. AUTHOR BIO: Éric Valli lived for many years in the Himalaya and is one of the region's best-known photographers. He is a regular contributor to Géo and National Geographic and the author of numerous books, including Abrams' Himalaya, about the making of his first feature-length film. He now lives in Paris. Anne de Sales is a cultural anthropologist for the CNRS, the national organization for scientific research, in Paris. She spent a decade in Nepal and has written several books on shamanism. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A UNIQUE VIEW OF AN UNPARALLELED CITY
Venice, Italy, surely one of the most vaunted cities on our planet has again been exalted in this folio-size volume of unforgettable photographs.

The poet Byron remembered Venice as he stood on the Bridge of Sighs, "A palace and a prison on each hand." Another bard, Shelley, described it as "Ocean's nursling......A peopled labyrinth of walls, Amphitrite's destined halls."

More contemporaneous writers may link Venice with Harry's Bar, a watering hole for the wealthy, or perhaps with the legions of pigeons that shroud St. Mark's Square.

Now, German photo-designer Gunter Derleth captures Vicenza with unerring eye and unique vision in photos remarkable for their quality of light. This effect is achieved by the camera obscura, which is "basically a box with a very small hole in it.....Light comes through the hole and is placed directly onto the paper." The results in this volume are dreamlike, sometimes almost surreal but always beautiful.

Derleth opens with fog cloaked figures from Carnevale, the celebration that calls for Venetians to dress in elaborate costumes and masks. We find the facade of Florian's, a restaurant bordering St. Mark's Square recognizable by its battery of miniature tables and decorative chairs. Whether a view across the Grand Canal of the glorious island of San Giorgio Maggiore or a simple apartment building, each photo embraces both the beauty and mystery of Venice.

Brief accompanying texts are excised from the works of great writers who were entranced by the city. Each amplifies and underscores its partner photo.

Italophiles will relish this lush volume, and photography buffs admire Gunter Derleth's art.

Gail Cooke ... Read more

Book Description

What role has photography played in shaping our ideas about race, nation, and selfhood? How has the camera been used to construct and contrast images of racial difference? To create or debunk stereotypes and romantic myths about specific ethnic groups? This groundbreaking book is the first to thoroughly investigate the impact that photography has had on race and racial identity in America-among the most profound and explosive issues in our nation's history and everyday life.

From Dorothea Lange's portrait of Mexican braceros brought to the United States as farm workers, to Anthony Aziz & Sammy Cucher's digitally manipulated, idealized nudes, Only Skin Deep presents historical and contemporary images and embraces a wide range of genres and movements, including portraiture, social documentary, ethnographic photography, fine-art photography, and photojournalism. Complementing the images are four original essays on race and photography, eight reprint essays that have served as foundational documents in the discussion of race, and five case studies that focus more narrowly on representations of specific cultural groups. The book will accompany a national touring exhibition prepared by the International Center of Photography in New York. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

GRAND VISION/HARD VIEWING
An enormous and fasinating series of discussions surrounding "raced looking" in America's history of photography is central to this group of essays by many of the cultural critics working today. A massive tome with outstanding visuals, some not seen in the exhibition, provide extensive background and analysis to the area of how race has intervened in American culture today. For museums who felt the race subject had been addressed in the 90s post-Quincentennary exhibition, it is obvious that much more in depth examination is necessary and relevant. An outstanding effort for a museum catalogue and exhibition. All should be commended. Required reading for anyone working and teaching in cultural studies, ethnic studies, humanities, and the arts. ... 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

Thousands of photographers have used the simple techniques described in this book to produce consistently excellent negatives and luminous prints. In this long awaited new edition, offering updated material and examples, Graves shows photographers how to apply the principles and procedures of the Zone System to both black and white and color photography. His proven methods allow even beginning photographers to relate the theory of the Zone System to their own equipment, materials, working procedures, and photographic tastes. Better still, the book imparts the understanding that the Zone System is not just a technique, but a way of thinking about photography that allows its practitioners greater freedom and creativity.

Graves' approach is based on the experiences and successes of hundreds of students. Special attention is given to the needs of roll film users with methods adapted especially for 35mm cameras. Over 80 illustrations, including full pages of color, provide clear examples of the techniques described.You won't need to learn logarithms or buy special equipment. This is not just the easiest to understand explanation of the Zone System available; it is a way to change your whole perception about the photographic image.

Carson Graves has been teaching, exhibiting, and writing about photography for over twenty years at schools and workshops around the country, including Arizona State University, Ohio University, and the Maine Photographic Workshops. He is the author of another highly respected photographic manual, Elements of Black & White Printing (Focal Press).

The easiest to understand explanation of the Zone System available.
Explains how the Zone System allows photographers to use the full creative potential of their cameras and film.
Based on the results and success of thousands of students. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Minor Quibble
I have only one complaint to make about this book. All the examples Carson Graves uses to illustrate the nine zones appear in black and white photographs. What I would really like to see in order to previsualize the various zones as I see them, which is in color, would be a side by side comparison of the same photos in black and white, in color. Is a light blue sky zone III? What zone is a light yellow leaf? A dark yellow leaf? A simplified pantone chart translating the various color tonalities into the various zones would be very helpful. Otherwise, the book is a marvelous learning tool. If any of you reading this know of such a book, please let me know.

A black and white beginners dream
I have been taking Black and Whites for about a year now, and every chapter I read my pictures improve. While the Zone system can be presented as hard core math, Grave uses Black and White images to define the Zones and help you think in grey scale. His book is extremely practical and is based on using the light meter in the camera. This means that you are not forced to buy extra equipment such as spot meter or hand held meters unless you want them for convience. The book really is good in making you think about the black and white print that will be produced. The proper exposure give you or your developer maximum latitiude in making prints. As well great effects can be made by adjusting your preceptions an adjusting the camera to capture what you precieve. The part on developing looks good also. There are film test and exposure test to determine if your camera is fuctioning normally or if needs work. If you are not getting good results then I suggest using these test to determine if your camera is functioing correctly the test seem unnecessary if you are getting good results. The Pictoral examples in this book are great. The text is about seeing a picture in your mind and then telling you how to create it on film for priinting. This book will greatly improve your black and white skills if you are a beginner without creating a great deal of confusion. Some of the lessons translate well to color photos. And there is a chapter onthe zone system for color.

Exelent explanation of zone system
In general I agree with all previous comments about the simplicity in explanation of such a hard topic as zone system. However, I write this review hoping that author or editors, or whoever responsible for one mistake, or typo will review their book before publishing (or maybe I didn't understand something and shouldn't accuse people of such a thing). Anyway here it is. On page 35 there is sketch of a photograph that explains how photographer may previzualize exposure by reading lightmeter and putting its results in zone 4 and 6. Zone 4 indicated by F5.6 at 1/125 and zone 6 indicated by F11 at 1/250. For the matter of better understanding we can assume that F5.6 at 1/125=F11 at 1/30. So now we have zone 4 represented by F11 at 1/30 and zone 6 represented by F11 at 1/250 clearly one stop too much. It is wrong because according to the book each following zone has one stop difference with its adjacent zone. I sincerely hope it was just typo, otherwise excellent book.

I saw the light, and It was a Zone IX!
If you intend to be serious about manual photography, you'll need to have an understanding of the zone system, and if you intend to have an understanding of the zone system, this book is for you.


While not circumventing the science of the zone system, Carson Graves prudently focuses more on application of its principles. Basically, this book will give you a clear understanding of what the zones are, how to relate them to real-life objects, how to understand what your light meter is telling you, and a lot more...


Do ya like pictures, Sonny? This book is full of 'em! The technical points about previsualization, judging contrast, etc. are really driven home by informative photos, drawings, and graphs.


On top of the basics, Mr. Graves "takes it to the hole" when he deftly explains advanced stuff like finding your exposure index and adjusting your development times...This book is an easy (and educational) read with just enough seriously technical stuff in it to warrant flaunting it in front of all the ladies (or guys) to show them what a brainiac you are. But YOU would never do that, you're way too cool...


All jokes aside - this book will give you knowledge, and through knowledge, control. Don't miss it.

Excellent control
A great way to understand how to control not only brigth, but also contrast, when taking and developing b&w photographs ... Read more

Book Description

Natural light portraiture is fast becoming a popular style of photography. Photographers and clients appreciate the understated, low-maintenance shoots and the spontaneous, casual quality of the photos. Featuring images shot on location, in clients' homes, and in the studio, the author teaches how to use the unique qualities of direct sun, window light, porch light, shade, and the light at sunrise and sunset to create flattering, natural-looking portraits. Photographers will learn how to select the right setting, equipment, backdrop, and props, as well as how to control the balance of light between subject and background. Each sample portrait is accompanied by detailed technical information to help photographers achieve the same results in their own work. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Great Resource
I highly recommend this book - I've been looking for a guide/resource like this for years. "Professional Secrets of Natural Light Portrait Photography" is well written, very comprehensive, and supports the written words with excellent photos and diagrams. I'm a serious amateur photographer - both of friends and family and for travel/vacation - and have won a number of awards for my photos. I find that more and more of my shots are of people, even when travelling. This book suggests many well thought out natural light posing and composition techniques - natural light sources, backgrounds, props, metering, even clothing. The book also covers topics such as working with kids and "difficult" situations. Many of the topics apply equally to candid or quick shots. Wish I'd had the book a few years ago.

Nice book, but
This is a very good book for a beginner photographer, however there are some things I would recommend to add and/or improve. Throughout all the book there are very interesting details describing the light sources, shading, and other aspects of natural light photography. However, author keeps repeating the same staff on every page... I.e. posing scheme, lens details, techniques, etc....

I wish to turn 100 or something pages and find something new on each page... Otherwise after you read couple of chapters you meet lots of repetitions... Same thing is told twice or more.

Good Book
Portraits are almost certainly the most common type of amateur or professional photography, and natural light is the only type of light truly available to us all (unless, of course, you live in an asylum, in which case I mean no offense). Why, then, must a beginner's pictures look any worse than those of a seasoned pro? The answer: they don't have to!

Natural light is the first kind of light. All forms of artificial portrait lighting is made to approximate the sun. But shooting good pictures in natural light does not mean that the natural light is any kind of sunlight. There is good and bad light, and there are ways to turn bad light into good light. This book teaches how.

The examples are great. Some are cheesy, some tasteful. All are noticeably professional, and a reader will learn essentially how to get the same results. The book also touches on posing and backgrounds and technical details about exposure. All-in-all, the book is worth the money.

Pretty cover but that's all. Content is fluff.
I buy a lot of books and this is the first that has ever so drastically underwhelmed me. As someone who has made a fairly good income in photography on the side, I wanted to learn more about informal outdoor portraiture (not weddings) in natural light and settings. The cover photograph is quite nice, but unfortunately is the best in the book. The rest are barely mediocre, especially for a photographer who reminds us throughout he text that he's endorsed by Hasselblad University.

In the beginning of this book, he claims it is for both the professional and for the mom who want to take better photos. It is for neither since it doesn't have enough of the basics for the uninitiated, and only talks about medium format focal lengths which the "mom" typically wouldn't be using nor understand the comparison to her 35mm lens focal lengths. (He could have added in parenthesis the equivalent length for 35mm camera), and neither does it cater to the pros desire for technical information by not publishing much data about each shot.

The nitty gritty of why this book is fluff: Photographer Douglas Allen Box continually glosses over pertinent technical information so vaguely that you wonder if you missed a paragraph or a page, while he goes on in depth about posing and clothing choices for your subject. At first thumbing through the pages, you'll see all sorts of 2 dimensional sketches next to some photos - that seems promising - until you actually try to match what is going on in the sketch to what is going on in the photo. They are often turned at odd angles to eachother - and often are actually wrong when you decipher the elements. Not helpful.

He describes a few tools and their use so inadequately he shouldn't bother mentioning them at all. Take these four examples: (1) A translucent light modifier has a page dedicated to it, yet there is no photo of one, nor is there a diagram showing how he placed it, nor a before picture to see what happens if one does not use it. (2) He complains that in one photograph he would have made a better photo with a longer lens that he did not own at the time of that portrait sitting. Well, set up a new one for this book and show us the difference - one with the shorter focal length and one longer - give us a diagram showing the difference in placement and the resultant photo. (3) His LIght Finder cube - in one passage he keeps refering to "the other two sides" but does not explain whether these are the dark sides, or light sides. A full page-and-a-half of vague description that leave one scratching one's head about a tool you really do not need in the first place. (4) He talks about blocking the overhead light when it is not naturally blocked, but never actually shows a diagram of how one might arrange such a set up, what tools and placement etc.

Lastly, when Box talks about adding flash he really ought to add a page or two for the uninitiated that explains why he's simply setting his flash at f8.5 and receiving different results. The accompanying text is exceptionally vague - yet he displays resulting photographs all extremely different from one another. I guess he leaves it up to us to buy another book that explains flash in a more satisfactory manner and then reapply it to his posing techniques of like-dressed people.

All in all, a complete flop unless you are very interested in learning how to pose and dress your subject. I'll be returning this one to Amazon quickly. Don't waste your money and time.

Should be called Sunset Photography
Box is obvoiusly a talented Photograher, but if your looking for ideas on how to make great looking portraits at all times during they day, this is NOT your book. Nearly every one of the outdoor photographs in this book are taken at sunset.

He constantly talks about finding good light, and that's the big trick, but he's obviosly not even very good at it since he can only find good light at sunset. ANY half-rate photographer can find good light at sunset or dusk. If you want a book about taking outdoor shots, get Jeff Smith's "Outdoor and Location Portrait Photography." Smith makes Box looks likes he's a beginner. Nearly every shot in Smith's book is NOT at dusk.

This book is really about posing, and understanding how to make artistic outdoor portraits (at dusk of course). He talks more about group photography and dressing your subjects in like clothing where Smith's book is about individual portraiture.

The photo on the cover is probably the best image Box has ever taken, and there's 2 or 3 other high quality captures as well. Smith's book is littered with high quality shots, and amazingly most of them were taken during mid-day, and he even shows you how he accomplished the task.

Douglass Allen Box's "Natural Light Portrait Photography" is for the amateur who wants to improve their group photography skil outdoors where time is really of no concern. Where your willing to sit around for hours waiting for "perfect" light. ... Read more

Book Description

Dog lovers and photographers alike will love this manual on how to take great shots of man’s best friend. Plenty of color images add extra appeal to the advice on equipment (including such things as squeakers and whistles, which get a pup’s attention); dog behavior; and handling puppies during a shoot. All the tricks of the trade are here, helping the amateur learn the all-important skill of “seeing” a good picture even as it’s happening. Almost any situation where Fido can be found is covered, with techniques for capturing it: dogs at work, resting, and at play. From photographing silhouettes to digital processes, every suggestion is easy to follow and fun to try.
... Read more