Book Description

An award-winning photographer and his breathtaking pictures provide beautiful inspiration for anyone longing to dive into the deep blue sea and record the wonders of marine life. Everything is broken down into manageable, thematic sections, which cover the photographic basics before progressing to more advanced procedures. Capture the ocean’s infinite splendor with an array of underwater shooting techniques, advice on choosing a camera, suggestions for maintaining the equipment, and instructions for lighting in this watery world. You’ll find out how to deal with low visibility, learn essential photographic equations for calculating shutter speeds and exposures; understand the differences between various film stocks and what digital can do; and see how to use the flash effectively. So take the plunge—the results will be fabulous.
... Read more

Book Description

This definitive guide to studio lighting explains and demonstrates universal lighting principles that help photographers think on their feet and master lighting theory and technique. Explained are essential concepts such as why light behaves the way it does and how to manipulate it to its best effect. Concrete, practical examples illustrate topics such as shooting light, dark, and reflective surfaces; mastering contrast control; modifying shadow formation to effectively shape mid- and light-colored objects; creating definition in black objects; and using Photoshop to fine-tune subjects. Instruction is also provided on creating simulated sunlight, painting with light, using softening filters, and lighting subjects in motion. Compelling photographs and numerous lighting diagrams are included. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Good content for the intermediate-level user
This is a useful book if you are already familiar with the
lighting equipment that exists, in which case the content
is quite good (4 stars). But it's not the best book for you
if you don't yet know what lighting equipment exists (2 stars).

Don't be left in the dark about lighting
Creative Lighting Techniques for Studio Photographers

Dave Montizambert

Amherst Media, Inc.

110 pages Paperback

"What would you do if you were asked to photograph an ice sculpture, or a hand-blown glass perfume bottle, or a glowing mug of beer, or a silverware setting or a brushed steel appliance, or a black car with chrome details?" asks photographer/author Dave Montizambert. If given any of the assignments listed, would you know how to go about lighting the subjects correctly and effectively? Lighting--especially of reflective surfaces--can be tricky. The proper lighting of a surface or subject can a take dull, boring subject and turn it into a prize winning illustration. Proper lighting on your models can turn a so-so portrait into a dramatic statement. Lighting is important, understanding how to use it correctly can make or break your career. I used to think experience, experimentation and a good eye could lead the way to properly lighting a scene or subject. That doesn't always work, however. If you don't know how you got the perfect lighting on your subject, you won't know how to duplicate it if you want that lighting for another subject. You have to know the rules. Creative Lighting Techniques for Studio Photographers explains lighting in clear language and then demonstrates the various techniques with large, clean illustrations. The photographer's vocabulary of lighting terminology is explained and illustrated with equal proficiency. After reading this volume, you will know what specular lighting, edge transfers, diffused values, obstruction distance and separation lighting are. You will understand distant relationships of light to subject and main light to distance (to subject) to ambient ratios. Better than that you will know why and how light works, falls off, changes energy and reflects and how these elements effect your images. Any questions you may have after reading the text and studying the illustrations will probably be answered in the "'Tips' boxes." "Tech Tips" feature additional technical information to help you apply the techniques discussed in the chapter's text. "Quick Reminder" boxes repeat important terms and concepts introduced in each chapter. "Did You Know?" boxes feature even more helpful information concerning the use of techniques just learned. "Data for Frames" boxes tell all about the technical specifications of the images, and includes exposure information, camera, lens and film data. To illustrate the thoroughness of the chapters in this book, I will use the portion "Light Painting 101," from Section Three. The term, "light Painting" is explained; the reader is then referred to a previous page where light painting is being used by a photographer for a commercial shot. Three schematics of the set up are shown, along eight with illustrative photographs. Exact information as to the filters, light sources, props and other equipment are below the photographs and schematics. Exposure times and f-stops are described. A page is dedicated to describing how the props that were to be photographed using this technique were prepared. What more could you ask for? Dave Montizambert's book, Creative Lighting Techniques, builds on the lighting foundation pioneered by Dean Collins. For nineteen years Dave and his brother/partner, Mark, have created images for McDonald's Foods, Motorola, TriStar Pictures, Warner Brothers and No Fear Sports Gear, among others. Montizambert lectures internationally on lighting, metering/zoning and digital image manipulation. He is also an instructor for lighting and advertising at Western Academy Photo College in Victoria, B.C. He has written many articles that have appeared in such prestigious publications as Professional Photographer and PhotoMedia Magazine. So, what would I do if I were asked to photograph an ice sculpture, or a hand-blown glass perfume bottle, or a glowing mug of beer, or a silverware setting or a brushed steel appliance, or a black car with chrome details? I'd say, yes, I can do that. Reading this book has given me the confidence that I can successfully tackle any lighting problem that I might encounter with future assignments. ... Read more

Book Description

Comprehensive. Detailed. Practical. Set Lighting Technician's Handbook, Third Edition is a friendly, hands-on manual covering the day-to-day practices, equipment, and tricks of the trade essential to anyone doing motion picture lighting. This handbook offers a wealth of practical technical information, useful techniques, as well as aesthetic discussions.

The Set Lighting Technician's Handbook focuses on what is important when working on-set: trouble-shooting, teamwork, set protocol, and safety. It describes tricks and techniques for operating a vast array of lighting equipment including xenons, camera synchronous strobes, black lights, underwater units, lighting effects units, and many others. Since its first edition, this handy on-set reference continues to be widely adopted as a training and reference manual by union training programs as well as top university film production programs. New in the third edition is an expanded resource section, new illustrations and tables, and coverage of new lighting products and techniques for how to use them.

Expanded resources section: websites, unions, chat groups, bulletin boards, etc, plus new illustrations and tables
More advanced, concise, and comprehensive than ever
Coverage of new lighting products and techniques to help you use them ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Perfect for the experienced, invaluable for the novice.
If you have any interest in motion picture equipment and lighting, or if you are in the industry already, then this book is a definite must-have. It has become a standard for many crew members in the movie business and is often referred to on set.

This book not only covers many different lights and their practical applications, but also deals with power distribution, electrical wiring, and even set etiquette. It is perfect for learning all there is to know about film lighting, and also makes a fabulous reference book if the subject matter is already familiar to you.

Even if you don't plan on being an electrician, this book provides a wealth of information that everyone should know while on set.

Perfect for the experienced, invaluable for the novice.

A quick-lookup resource for set lighting technicians
Knowledgeably written by Hollywood-based gaffer and director of photography Harry C. Box, this newly revised and expanded third edition of Set Lighting Technician's Handbook authoritatively covers the equipment, electrical distribution, and techniques of film lighting. From a basic overview of who does what job on the lighting crew; to descriptions of how to use a wide variety of light fixtures ranging from tungsten to HMI to fluorescent lights; to safely handling electric power sources, Set Lighting Technician's Handbook is an excellent reference tool, instructional refresher course, and quick-lookup resource for set lighting technicians of all skill and experience levels.

The finest book on the subject I've read.
After 22 years in the Hollywood motion picture lighting business, I can attest to the value and accuracy of this book. A magnificent work of hard-won knowledge and vital information for the old pro or beginner. I refer to it often. Well done, Harry.

Great Book, will recomend it to our crews.
As a long time theatrical technician I found the book to be very insightfull as to the practices of film lighting world. I wish a book this good was written for stage hands. It is a practical guide to the film lighting business with not just basic information but tips to make you feel like on old pro. After reading it I would feel comfortable taking a work call on a film set any time.

The best manual of its kind.
If you are an aspiring electrician and want to work in movies and commercials this is a must-have for your shelf. Even a seasoned pro can learn a thing or two and the attention (and clear explanation) given to electrics is superior to any trade manual on the market. I've been reading, Mr. Box's articles in Film Crew Magazine for the past few years and it is even more valuable to be able to have some of this knowlege bound in a book. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An excellent book on a way of 'seeing' the landscape
Joe Cornish has a growing reputation. Joe has been illustrating books and photographing the UK landscape for the National Trust of England and Wales for many years. After building his reputation in this way, he now focuses on landscape photography.
This collection of images gives the technical information that many photographers crave about each image. But more than that, it is a lesson in 'seeing'and can inspire you to gain confidence to develop your own way of seeing and to follow your own vision.
This is not a 'how to' book, but one that will inspire you because the way Joe has developed his own way of seeing and expressing that with the camera is so distinctive. I disagree entirely with the earlier review that gives this book only 3 stars. A photograph may be technically correct in its exposure and its time of day. But it is only as good in the eye of the beholder to the degree that it reflects your own taste. If it is not to the taste of the earlier reviewer, that view is to be entirely respected. But don't let that put you off looking at this book and making up your own mind. Joe really is just as artistic and able as William Neill, Jack Dykinga and any other of the top landscape photographers.

Nice Pictures, but Not Great
This is a collection of Cornish's color landscape photographs taken around the world, mostly with a 4 by 5-inch view camera. Each picture is accompanied by a description of the circumstances under which the picture was taken. There is also a smaller picture taken of the same subject or at the same time that is contrasted with the larger photograph.

The photographer is clearly concerned with light in the landscape. Many pictures show the red glow of "magic hours" or reflections of water, or cloudy skies. Cornish's photographs are lovely, but there is nothing outstanding about them. Once upon a time this book might have been at the cutting edge. But we now live in a world where first-class landscapes are offered to us in every automobile advertisement so that to capture our eye, an image must be exceptional.

Nor is there any common theme among the landscapes that might lead you to look at them because you have an interest in the subject matter. I would have felt proud to have taken any of these pictures. However, I wouldn't expect many people to lay out good money for such a book when there are so many other outstanding works by world class photographers, unless they already owned everything by Ansel Adams or Galen Rowell or Art Wolfe.

I must confess that this book was not what I expected. The publisher, Amphoto Books, usually puts out "how-to" books, and I expected something like Galen Rowell's "Mountain Light" that would deal with using light to create better pictures while at the same time presenting a great portfolio. I am certain most serious landscape photographers would be highly interested in a new book on this subject. But the only way you are going to learn anything from this book is by analyzing each picture yourself at great length, and extracting some photographic principle from your analysis. To be fair, technical information is provided on each picture and the accompanying discussions occasionally present a few of the considerations in using light in landscapes, like the effect of long exposures and the special results of early morning and late day light. Unfortunately I don't find this information very educational for either the beginner or the more experienced photographer. For the beginner, I would recommend either John Shaw's "Nature Photography Field Guide" or his "Landscape Photography" (the former was recently printed and reflects the changes in technology of the last few years, but does not have quite as much detail about landscapes). The more experienced photographer will be more interested in "Fine Art Nature Photography: Advanced Techniques and the Creative Process" by Tony Sweet. Sweet's book also uses single pictures on a page with discussion, but the photos are extraordinary and the discussion instructive. ... Read more

Book Description

An aura of eroticism sparks every page of this exciting instructional that shows camera artists exactly how to create provocative shots through carefully placed lighting. A wide-ranging selection of complex studio shots and natural exterior settings feature provocative contemporary photographs by top professionals, accompanied by explanatory text, equipment specifications, and set up schemes for each composition. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Not what I had expected
To be fair, if you're browsing through the erotic photos section of the website and you come across a book called "provocative shots", you're hoping for something pretty special. I even chose it in preference to "Absolut verboten: total filth 1950-2000". Still, it makes for an interesting discussion point when liberal friends come round, and also provides a quick and easy way to get rid of unwelcome prudish neighbours. Recommended more as a communications strategy than a thrill.

The book is provoking everyone
I'm a nudes photographer and find the book is very useful. The Provocative Shots is a shot one step beyond the Erotic Shots. You can find the lighting diagrams is very easy to read and very helpful for you to set a lighting. If you interested in Nudes Photography you should have another titles from Pro-Lighting series like NUDES, PROVOCATIVE SHOTS and EROTICA.

Excellent sourcebook for ideas
I am a professional photographer... whose work is included in this book. I found the work of other artists very inspirational and thought provoking. The caliber of the work presented here is exceptional, and I find my creative horizons have expanded because of this book. I'm honored to be among the exceptional photographers included here.

Pro-Lighting books are always top shelf
Another great Pro Lighting book. Alex Larg always put together a great assortment of shots with excellent diagrams and tips on film and processing ideas. ... Read more

Book Description

Written by one of the most experienced teachers of underwater photography this popular, `hands-on' manual demonstrates how to take stunning underwater photographs that will not only give you a personal feeling of satisfaction, but will improve your chances of achieving award winning results.



The book focuses on the practical art of taking underwater pictures through the author's popular 'think and consider' system. This system explains how, with careful thought and consideration of the subject matter, lighting and environment prior to taking the picture, beautiful effects can be captured. Practical examples take you step by step through the basic techniques; from photographing shipwrecks, divers, fish and abstract images to taking photographs at night and 'dual lighting', plus advice on the selection of equipment.

Written in a clear, non-technical style and illustrated in colour throughout this book has established itself as the introductory guide to photographing the wonders of the underwater world. It has now been fully updated and expanded to include seven new chapters containing new techniques and examples, more inspirational images and the very latest equipment.

* concentrates on the practical art of taking stunning underwater pictures
* used by underwater photographers world-wide as a practical handbook to be carried at all times
* illustrated with inspirational colour pictures throughout
* written by an experienced teacher and award winning underwater photographer

Illustrated with beautiful colour pictures to inspire you
Includes practical step-by-step examples so you can really get to grips with this genre
Benefit from an international underwater photography trainer's hints, tips and practical advice first hand ... Read more

Reviews (12)

The most useful book on u/w photography I have read!
I have always said that underwater photography is not something a rational person should consider.

It is expensive and at times very frustrating, but when you get some good results it rewards you with a great feeling of satisfaction.

As someone who has persevered with underwater photography for nearly 15 years, I have bought many books on the subject in an attempt to learn why I keep making the same mistakes. Until reading Martin Edge's book I felt that only Howard Hall's book came close to showing me the answer.

Martin has managed to produce a book that is not only interesting and easy to read but really gets the message over. He covers all the aspects you need to know about, without the commonly made mistake of getting tangled up in the technical & equipment issues.

Sure he talks about the equipment, but the clear message is that you take the photograph...the equipment is just what you use to do it with.

If you are serious about underwater photography, then you need this book!

Superb
Martin Edge's book should be considered a Bible for the underwater photographer, particularly for those diving with housed SLR's. Jim Church's books on the Nikonos system and on composition, are extremely helpful, but Martin Edge provides clear and to the point advice for the housed Nikon SLR user, as well as providing general instruction in uw photography. I'm a professional photographer on land, but a newbie to underwater photography, and I found this book appropriate for both levels of experience. If you plan to do uw photography, buy it. If you plan to use a housed SLR, buy it twice!

NOT a great book
I know I'm in the minority when it comes to reviews of this book, but I really didn't think this book was all that great. In fact, I thought it was about as close to useless as a book can get. The problem is that the book is light on technique and heavy on fluff. If you're a beginning photographer, you probably need lots of technique help, and this book doesn't deliver. It won't help new photographers increase their skills because it really doesn't offer much in the way of help on the critical areas like strobe positioning, exposure control, basic composition, etc.

It's not so hot for advanced photographers, either, because it doesn't offer much guidance in areas that might be useful to them, like special techniques, advanced composition, subject selection, exotic equipment, etc.

All in all, I'm not sure who the book was written to help...I'm just reasonably sure it won't help many people.

Pick another book.

Second to none!
I have read this book over and over again to absorb all the information! It is so good and contain a wealth of information. Comparing it wit the books by Danja and Annmarie Kohler, Mark Webster and Jim Church's book on composition, this one comes in as a clear first. Mark Webster's book is a relatively close runner up, but it is Marin's book that always join me on my trips and elsewhere. Photography in all books is good but Martin provides the most and best information. Jim's book is a waste of money compared to the rest. Overprized with very little hard info. Just a ton of mumbojumbo. The book by Koehler is ok, but way behind Webster, and in particular. Edge's books! Get it and love it!

Gret book!!!!!
I guess that I must disagree with the other reader from Austin. I have been reading this book, and I find it very helpful to a person just getting into UW photography.

Perhaps if I was a seasoned UW photo pro, then maybe the book might not be that great...however, as a newbie to UW photo stuff, it is great for me.

He explains ideas and techniques really well.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is just GETTING STARTED in UW photography.

Mark ... Read more

Book Description

Master the techniques of skill lighting by understanding how light works as well as the proper use of lighting equipment and accessories. Focus on captivating, professionally taken still lifes, grouped in sections according to lighting style. Alongside the photos are drawings of the lighting set up and the photographers' comments on how they achieved the effects. "...will challenge and inspire photographers of every level."--Photo Trade News.
... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Beautiful Book
This is a beautiful book full of beautiful shots of food in all its glory. Each shot is accompanied by a diagram showing you how to position your lights, camera, and subject. You also get info on which film was used, which camera was used, what the exposure was, plus a host of other insider info on this specialty trade. You'll need a basic background in lighting to be able to replicate the techniques. And I suspect you'll want to learn some basic food styling skills, if you ever want to master this field. Still, the book is a must for someone who wants to practice shooting food shots. By mastering each technique illustrated, you can then let your imagnation soar and move on to creating your own fabulous food shots. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

very basic
doesn't give any advice for seasoned photogs. Was looking for light placement...specifics of film ratings vs light position vs full or qtr power, etc for specific lenses/situations. Nothing there.

An excellent text for someone who already knows the basics.
The author does not include the basics of photography (f-stops, film speed, etc) in this text as other authors do. (For an excellent chapter on the basics, see Jim Church's Essential Guide to Nikonos Systems.) Rather, the author intends this text for photographers with some experience. I appreciated his opinions and reasoning. Rather than try and present all types of strobes, Norbert Wu states what he finds successful and why he uses them. Considering his list of accomplishments, I take his recommendations seriously. The chapter on films I found very helpful. The photo captions were great, too. I also liked that the book was very to-the-point. Again, this text is not meant for a beginning photographer, but rather someone with a few frames under his weight belt.

Know basic underwater & land photo skills before reading.
Mr. Wu primarily covers the difference in the photographic requirements underwater as compared to land photography including the effects of using a specific manufacturer's film. If your knowledge of photography basics is minimal you will be best served to grasp these elsewhere before reading this concisely written book. He all but eliminates the clutter of the basics. I felt he may have been too brief. It is definitely not exhaustive. I think that more examples of the various lenses available and their effects, camera manufacturers who make special cameras for this purpose, and lighting requirements that exist underwater could have been expanded without going beyond the scope of the writer's intent. If you need or want more detail, then this book is not for you. Overall, I think it's a good refresher book. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Pretty basic...pretty scanty
I'd give this 2 1/2 stars. It has a lot of very basic information in it, maybe what I'd call the FUNDAMENTALS of lighting which can be helpful. But it's pretty parsimonious in the information it provides. Since most buyers will probably be amateurs, I think the authors have short-changed the reader in areas like the meaning & effects of color temperatures or the various types of tungsten lighting & associated code keys. I don't think that's asking too much more for a book of this price (& title). The final impression I get from this book is that the authors are saving the good stuff for the next... book.

Fantastic book that covers EVERYTHING
this book has sections on everything you can imagine-- I won't get into them all here, but I will say it has an excellent, excelent first section on just equipment: what the different types of lights are, how they're used, sample photos that show the unique characteristics of that light, etc. it also goes into scrims, gobos, snoots, light meters, and allllll that other weird stuff you will need to know about as you get better at lightign. tons of sample photos make this a great reference AND learning guide.

Absolutely great for the advanced amateur
As an advanced amateur, I find this to be one of the very best books in my collection. It has given me clear answers to more questions that formally puzzled me, and introduced me to more new techniques, than any other book. I own several other standard books on lighting and feel strongly that this title is tops in the category, and can't resist alerting others to it.

The authors discuss all sorts of lighting equipment, but also cover light meters, back-drops, reflective surfaces, and household lighting sources such as desk lamps. A final section covers a wonderful variety of projects from low-key portraits to photographing windows.

The many photographs are perfectly chosen and are subordinated to illustrating the points discussed, rather than being just a show-case for fabulous pictures, as they are in the average photography book. A clear diagram accompanies the description of each lighting approach.

The one negative Amazon.com review mentions the problem of buying equipment "slowly"... as I develop a basic set of lighting equipment, slowly, I will be glad to have this resource to guide me.

Not the best in its class
I bought the book because I thought the "Easy and Affordable Techniques" would be clever and insightful, which they were not. The author's ultimate advice is to buy the standard lighting equipment, but slowly. While he does explain how/why the standard studio lighting equipment works, so does virtually every lighting book. I prefer the Pro Lighting Series for better photos, better diagrams, and better writing.

Reader friendly, inspiring, and informative.
This book helped to improve my understanding of lighting and is particularly useful to those on a restricted budget. It covers a wide range of styles and subjects both clearly and concisely. The writing manages to avoid the dryness and sterility I've so often encountered elsewhere, and I can personally vouch for the fact that suprisingly good results can be obtained by working with the simple diagrams and recommendations. There are also many handy hints, from buying gear to setting up a studio. This book encourages the reader to improvise and experiment whilst informing and educating, and I wish I had discovered it sooner! ... Read more

Book Description

Enables readers to produce top-grade results whether they are lighting off-the-cuff with a portable compact kit or tackling a major project with an extensive heavy-duty rig. It does not assume technical knowledge or previous experience and after covering
basics it guides readers towards the most effective ways of tackling particular projects, and shows typical professional solutions to everyday situations.

Wide coverage of all aspects of lighting provides an understanding of the techniques involved
Benefit from the inside knowledge and expertise of the author
Easy to understand jargon free step by step guide to tackling everyday situations ... Read more

Reviews (1)

First Step on the Professional Path
Lighting theory and application are thoroughly discussed in plain language. This is an excellent text for new students and for the more experienced communications professional who needs to learn basic lighting for a quality video product. Techniques such as 3-point lighting, illuminating subjects in natural light (outdoors), and special effects for mood are as relevant today as they were in 1991. The only drawback is that there are some newer lighting products on the market that build on the basics. For that type of information, I suggest you consult trade manuals. This book will educate the novice to intermediate videographer. It will inspire future lighting technicians. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Cinematography is the first title in the Screencraft Series, a unique venture which aims to unravel for the first time the multi-layered language of film-making, by exploring the fusion of crafts which combine to create the most important art form of the 20th century.Although the cinematographer or director of photography rarely receives the kind of attention reserved for directors and actors, there is little doubt that this is the key technical role in the process of revealing a story through images.The cinematographers featured in this book encompass three generations of filmmaking and represent a diversity of film cultures.What they have in common is the contribution they have made to a universal cinema heritage and the fact that their work has helped to expand -- if not revolutionize -- the language of film.This book, featuring the world's finest cinematographers, will inspire practicing professionals, students, and movie buffs alike.This beautifully designed and illustrated book speaks in the voices of these cinematographers and through the powerful images they have created for the screen.


The cinematographers featured in this book encompass three generations of filmmaking and represent a diversity of film cultures, from "African Queen" to "Delicatessen."
Highly illustrated -- over 500 color pictures and 300 black and white photos -- and written entirely based on each cinematographer's own words from interviews
This book, featuring the world's finest cinematographers, will inspire practicing professionals, students, and movie buffs alike.

Features three generations of cinematographers representing many diverse film cultures
Highly illustrated with over 500 color pictures and 300 black and white photos
Written entirely based on each cinematographer's own words from interviews ... Read more

Reviews (2)

excellent material
I picked this book up in manila, i found it very well written and informative. It is made up of interviews with some of todays most talented and succesful DOPs, they talk about their experiences in film, their own innovative techniques and styles and also what launched them into this career. The book also includes production notes, storyboards and other interesting technical camera issues. Well worth reading, once youve read it youll find your self picking it up all the time to have another read.

Wonderfully designed and inspirational
I checked this book out because I'm currently an art student unsure of which direction to pursue as far as career, but leaning towards film. This book features background and interviews with several influential cinematographers and proved extremely helpful to me. The film stills featured (from movies like The Godfather, Taxi Driver, The Piano,etc) stand alone as works of art and work exquisitely when combined with the text and other illustrations from the film making process (storyboards and angle sketches) to show how a good movie should be put together. This book would probably be enjoyed by most interested in film or storytelling. ... Read more

Book Description

Book Description

Basic Lighting Worktext for Film and Video guides the film and video student through a series of readings, exercises and projects designed to provide the fundamentals of light science. In addition to up-to-date descriptions of equipment and tips on how to use it properly, the book provides numerous set-ups that illustrate the techniques and thoughts behind proper studio and location lighting.

From this book, you will learn:
* The fundamentals of light and electricity in film
* The fine distinction of lighting for video versus lighting for film
* How to identify and filter sources such as daylight, tungsten, fluorescent, arc, HNI and industrial discharge lamps
* The use of lensed and open-faced lighting fixtures
* How tomodify with barndoors, scrims, snoots, nets, cookies, and other accessories
* Variations on the basic three-point lighting setup
* The duties of each member of a lighting unit
* How to light night exteriors, day interiors, and campfires
* High-key, low-key, and modulated value lighting
* How to scout locations, plan lighting, plots, and pre-rig sets ... Read more

Book Description

Bill Fortney's Great Photography Workshop is a complete how-to guide for the impassioned amateur outdoor photographer-the fastest growing segment of the market. Major camera manufacturers report an enormous upswing in sales of upper-end equipment to non-professionals, and this book aims at serious amateur photographers who are making substantial investments in equipment.

This book is a fresh approach to the age-old desire of serious amateurs to become truly good at their chosen craft. Most books produced over the past two decades have focused either on technical considerations or the esthetics of photography. Few have integrated both important issues into one volume, and none has presented an actual course of action to help readers develop excellence at their craft. Bill Fortney's Great Photography Workshop contains actual self-assignments and field exercises to help the reader become fluent with each of the major concepts. In addition, the book addresses the emotional stumbling blocks to the learning process. A portfolio section includes work samples from serious amateurs who have followed the author's course to arrive at professional skill levels. Finally, the book contains a full bibliography of other source materials. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

What "workshop?"
This is an average book similar to so many photography books that give you an introduction to/overview of landscape/outdoor/nature/whatever photography. Nothing in this book sets it apart from the crowd. The "workshop" part is almost non-existent -- just a few brief, vague "self assignments" at the end of each chapter.

Could be better
If you have the chance to read the introductory pages or if you will read the recommendations from other readers - for sure you will get excited about this book. And you will feel proud for your choice in buying it:-)) For sure Bill Fortney is a good manager for the business he runs (including good knowledge of promoting his book), he may be a good professional photographer but this book could be better. Interestening details are extremely poor or just mentioned in hurry. This is why I believe beginners could find much better books and advanced amateurs either. Try "John Shaw's Nature Photography Field Guide" and you will have a *****book!

Makes you excited about photography
A short flip through the pages of this book and it soon becomes obvious that Bill Fortney is undoubtedly a master photographer. Inside "Bill Fortney's Great Photography Workshop" you will find page after page of sound photographic advice complete with illustrations and examples. While it is a technical presentation in many aspects, he also clearly shows that great photography is every bit as much an art form as it is a technical knowledge. Besides discussions of such things as shutter speed and aperture and how they affect the picture he delves into the importance of the right light, composition, seeing with an artistic eye, and using filters (especially the effect of a good polarizing filter). If you like photography you will leave the book excited about the possibilities before you as you apply what you have learned. This is a highly recommended read for any photography enthusiast.

Take a SIP, Stunning, Inspirational, Photography!!
Excellent, well written. This is definitely a photo course in book form. From the inclusion of amateurs' work to the use of a pleasently large font this book does exactly what it sets out to do- improve your photography. The self assignments (of which I have already done some and do without realising it) , which are easy to do are instructive and provide immediate feedback in many cases. The tone of the book is straightforward, informative, humorous and down to earth, a rarity. At the worst the pictures will inspire to get up and go shooting, at the best after trying the assignments and treating it like the text it is, your photography should improve.

With jaw-dropping full-color example photographs
Bill Fortney's Great Photography Workshop: Getting Serious About Outdoor Photography is a simply brilliant guide to improving techniques of outdoor photography, and ranges in subject matter from making the most of creative controls; to keeping a close eye on exposure; to selecting the right equipment; to choosing between film and digital media. Jaw-dropping full-color example photographs illustratively pack the pages of this enthusiastically recommended resource for students and practitioners of the art of photography. ... Read more

Book Description

Discusses the use of high-speed films; camera handling for steadiness; lenses; the correct film for tungsten lighting, fluorescent lighting, and mercury-vapor lamps; and filters. Includes tables that give exposure recommendations for taking photographs in typical existing-light situations, such as in the home, outdoors at night, and in public places. 88 pages (200 illustrations), 8-1/2 x 11.
... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great summary for a workshop with assignments
This small book summarizes almost everything the begginer to intermediate available light photographer needs to know (zone system not included - buy Adams "The Negative"), and includes several technical tables, understandably mentioning only Kodak products. It's pleasant to find a book that describes what I have been using for years without having read it before.

Not very impressive
This books explains the very basic knowledge of available-light photography, like when and how to use a tripod. Additional information is given about how to choose and use the right (Kodak-) film for specific situations. Thus I can recommend this book only to beginners in this field or people with their own lab. The photographs in this book are old and not very impressive.

Excellent
Although the example pictures look like they were taken quiet some time ago, this book is very up-to-date in my opinion. I've searched through the book stores, and I think that this is the best guide for this particular topic. Easy to read, good examples, etc., "suggested exposure settings" table that comes with it, is very useful for a beginner like me. ... Read more

Book Description

Combining theory and application, A Practical Guide to Stage Lighting provides a comprehensive analysis of lighting systems along with step-by-step examples and illustrations of the technical tools and methods.Readers will benefit from experience-based tips, techniques and traps to avoid in preparing and executing a lighting design.Anecdotes illustrate why some techniques succeed while others fail.

Existing textbooks about theatrical lighting analyze artistic vision and visual concepts, which are important for the aspiring designer. These texts do not, however, provide any information about the mechanics required to produce those visions.This book addresses the realities of working in the theatre using practical methods to squeeze flexibility out of a lighting system and present solutions to common problems.

Practical approach to lighting design and implementation

Includes experience-based tips and traps to avoid

Thorough examination of the documents used to create the lighting design ... Read more

Reviews (7)

A great useful book on the PROCESS of lighting
This is hands-down the best book I've ever read regarding the process of designing and executing a lighting design. Other books do wonderful jobs of discussing instruments and electrical aspects, or how to create a design, but very few discuss the day-to-day paperwork and personal interactions involved in getting that design executed. This book addresses that subject thoroughly, discussing what documents to create, how to schedule time in the theatre, how to work with all the other folks involved in creating a production, and so on. Highly recommended.

Organised Stage Lighting
I would say this is NOT the first book to buy or read for someone wanting to learn stage lighting design. The books does not cover the basic theories.

But - it offers a very good guide to the real-world contraints and demands of lighting. The author give very concrete and useful suggestions and advice. Analysing a complete design ('Hokey') step-by-step is a clever move. It is also the perfect book for those who want learn how to accurately document their designs to last nut and bolt. Even with my 20+ years in lighting and lighting design, I found this book a worthwhile addition to my collection of lighting textbooks.

WOW
Get This Book! This book has everything a aspiring lighting designer needs. Shelley clearly shows his thoughts with clear illustrations. The first page is his complete lighting design for a show!!Buy It!

The coming standard in lighting design instruction.
"A Practical Guide to Stage Lighting" is destined to become the definative source of instruction in the field of theatrical lighting. With the books emphasis on the process of light design it gives the reader the tools necessary to create the art. Whether your goal is to become a good stage electrician or a good designer the explainations in this book will allow you to work and communicate quickly and efficiently during that precious time allotted for load-in, hang and focus.

Steve Shelley, by taking a chronological approach to light design, illustarates exactly what goes into a successful design. He defines his terms, explains why he does things, and provides anecdotes and insights that make the book entertaining and easy to read.

The final section of the book on how to focus lights will teach you more about creating and implementing a light design than any other book you have, can or will read.

From A Classroom Tool to a Professional's Reference
Thanks Steve! I met Steve and bought his book at the 1999 USITT Expo in Toronto. When I returned to The University of Illinois in the fall for the first semester of my sophomore year, I found that this was the textbook for one of my lighting design classes. I agree with the previous reviewers, this book is great. Steve takes you from zero to hero on the design of a sample show. From the first call to the last curtain Mr. Template himself outlines what a typical lighting designer does, and reminds us what a typical designer FORGETS to do! He provides many thorough checklists to make sure you've got your bases covered when you're in an unfamiliar space or dealing with unfamiliar people. Steve even let's us in on some of the more humorous stories involved in his lifetime of experience. From the classroom beginner to the top-notch LD, this book is a strong tool to carry in your travel case. ... Read more

Book Description

*129 b/w photos
* 7 x 9
* Basic and advanced techniques and equipment
* How to visualize and compose in black and white

"An excellent resource for the nature photographer who'd like to expandinto black and white, George Schaub's book packs a solid one-two punch ofinspirational photos and educational text."--Peter Kolonia, senior editor,Popular Photography

This practical guide, the ninth in Stackpole's popular How toPhotograph series, shows in clear text and a wealth of photos how to"see" in black and white, select film and accessories, and use yourequipment to master the classic medium of Ansel Adams, Edward Weston, andMinor White.

George Schaub teaches at the New School/Parsons School of Design in NewYork. He has written many books on photography and is a frequentcontributor to Shutterbug's Outdoor & Nature Photography. He lives on Long Island. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An OK but not essential book on the subject
I ordered this book with high hopes but must say I'm a little disappointed with the coverage and subject material. Here is a summary of the book contents:

Part 1: An appreciation of the Medium - a very quick summary of the field. Covers lots of territory with little depth

Part 2: Seeing Pictures - portion of the book I would like to see expanded, only 8 pages long. This covers composition and how to see pictures.

Part 3: Film - obvious. Covers grain, types, use a tripod, etc.

Part 4: Techniques - Light metering. Be aware of how your meter can fool you. Also filters.

Part 5: Completing the Vision - How to Print. Contact sheets, variable contrast papers, toning.

Part 6: Photo Diary - Artist's statement.

I think where the book fails is that it covers everything with such little depth. The Zone System gets maybe a paragraph. The one area where it does spend time is in using the light meter. If you aren't familiar with how white or black objects can fool a meter looking for middle gray, then maybe you could benefit from this book. I think it is more designed for the beginner/intermediate photographer. I think a book in this series which covers landscape composition a bit better is "How to Photograph Landscapes" by Joe Lange.

Most of the information presented in this book is not specific to landscape. The author makes clear that one of his favorite types of photographs is to find faces in cliffs and rocks. Not really my cup of tea. Again not terrible for basics but there are many books which cover the same material. I wish the book would have focused more on a few areas, particular to outdoors, and added more depth. Also note there is no index.

for those passionate about black & white
I picked up this book as an amateur wanting to learn more about black and white photography.

The book clearly elucidates the joy and sorrow (more joy than sorrow) of where the passion of black and white photography will take you.

Layer by layer, George Schaub peels the moods and experiences, sharing his tactics and finesse of observation with the reader.

You get to feel how much of an art AND science black and white photography really is. And you learn to learn from the kind of mistakes you make.

The book is as much a joy to read as to think about in your free time or while you're out there in the outdoors with a camera dying to be used.

George Schaub's book is packed with insight about his craft. The world we begin to see from behind the camera lens and the moments we so capture are given a timeless rendition in this book.

An absolute must for those who care! ... Read more