Book Description

This photographer's guide to creating successful model portfolios encourages a dynamic, diversified artistic approach and shares essential knowledge about the modeling industry, portfolio basics, and agency requirements. Photographers learn how to work with models for the best possible results, create and refine a standout portfolio, and sell that product to agents in the United States, England, and Asia. Three actual portfolios are included to help photographers conceptualize, sculpt, and refine their own portfolios to maximize their client's reach in the industry. Photographers learn why particular images were chosen for opening and closing shots, how to arrange the interior images, and what constitutes an appealing design. Featuring information on working with women, men, and children, this book will help new and experienced models and photographers alike in getting the results they desire. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great - Fantastic HOW TO Book
The title of this book is somewhat misleading... but only in a minor way. EVERY photo in this book is about people... not the more generic "Studio and Commercial" photography... I'd have paid good money to see a couple still lifes of an apple and an orange by the time I reached the end. In fairness, Jack "What's his name" has obviously fantastic work (Like he needs MY endorsement), and all that he has to offer are words of wisdom... I just wish it was as easy in reality as he makes it look in literature!!!

Reznicki walks you through all of the steps of creating an image, from receiving the phone call on Friday afternoon, to getting your crew lined up, building the sets, models, and client management!! Great info if you want to make a buck with your images! Good diagrams on how he gets his images too!!

Studio & Commercial Photography
A top notch resource for the working pro and amateurs alike. I picked up some tips that have made my job so much easier. The book is very relaxed and open in its presentation with a no nonsense delivery of information.

Become Inspired In Just 176 Pages
As a writer (newspapers, corporate publications, magazines), I'm very critical of writing technique. There's not much to criticize here, though, because Jack writes like he probably talks: conversationally, but clearly. That's a big deal because usually photographers can get by with writing cutline info...few are trained in written storytelling. A voracious reader could whiz through the book in an evening, but believe me, you'll reread it again and again.

As a photographer who's just opened a portrait studio, the book has helped me in many ways. For instance, Jack tells readers how to coax reactions from those hardest of subjects -- children. That's going to be very helpful in my studio. Additionally, he offers much technical advice that every shooter is bound to find useful. Finally, he covers the business aspect of photography that gets glossed over in other books. Jack's advice in this area is real world...he's worked for large clients most of us have heard of, so I'm willing to trust his words implicitly.

In short, a fine book that's bound to be helpful, too. What more do you want?

Time well spent with great Pro
This book is like spending time in Jack's Studio when he's very busy solving problems and creating great images. The only difference is that in the book, he has time to talk with you and tell you why and how of everything he does. I got lots of solid information from this book. I applied some great stuff that I learned the first week I read it. Jack's an easy guy to learn from. (His writing is easy and not like many photographers who are good with images but poor with words.) For anybody thinking of starting or improving their commercial studio business, this book is one of the best! ... Read more

Book Description

Portrait and wedding photographers will find scores of proven-effective strategies for starting a new studio or improving an existing one in this thoroughly updated edition of an industry classic! Filled with real-life insights only a professional studio photographer would know, The Business of Studio Photography provides practical advice and surefire strategies for every aspect of operating a photography studio: from choosing a location, financing, and equipping the business to pricing jobs, negotiating with photo labs, and selling to the public. There are scores of no-nonsense guidelines for devising short- and long-term business plans, handling paperwork effectively, conducting public relations and self-promotion programs, and more. This updated and expanded edition includes an all-new section on the use of digital photography by the studio photographer, as well as completely updated lists of websites, equipment, books, and other photography resources. The book also features dozens of sample equipment checklists and forms, all ready to copy and use immediately. This is the definitive one-stop reference of professional tips and techniques for every studio photographer! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

must have book
If you are just getting started in a photography business, you have to have this book! It is step by step on starting up,getting going, then running your buisness. This man Knows what he is doing and he tells you like it is. I use it every day, my business will be open soon and i give this book a lot of credit! I highly recomend it.

Read, and then re-read this book periodically!
This is a MUST READ for anyone thinking about entering the studio photography business. But it's much more than that... you can re-read this book (or at least select chapters) and keep learning more. There are so many tips, ideas, strategies, and just plain solid advice, that one reading cannot absorb it all. Even after years in the business, I make a point of browsing this book every 4-5 months.

An excellent blend of business savvy and specifics tuned
Any interested in studio photography as a business will find Edward Lilley's Business Of Studio Photography to be an important guide to building a studio photography venture from the ground up. From choosing a location and equipping it to pricing work and catering to the wedding, portrait or commercial markets, Business Of Studio Photography provides an excellent blend of business savvy and specifics tuned to the studio photography world.

The Best I Have Seen So Far....
This is the best book on how to run the "business" aspect of a photography studio that I have seen. It's obvious that the author is very experienced in the profession and the book is loaded with tips and personal experiences that will save you time, stress, and money. I thought I could just open up a photography business and be successful, but after reading this book I found out that there was a lot I didn't know. I'm still going to pursue a career in photography, only now I'll be much smarter about it. READ THIS BOOK if you are thinking about making a living in photography!

Very Informative Book!
This book is full of helpful info. Covers all aspects of starting a photography business. It was my #1 guide in getting my photography studio up-and-running. I'm afraid it is becoming alittle dated, however. That is my only reason for giving it 4 stars instad of 5. I would be wonderful if Lilley would write an updated - into-the-21st Century-Version!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

If you're a photographer trying to earn a living from your work, The Photographer's Guide to Marketing and Self-Promotion may be the best investment you make. Maria Piscopo has been a photographer's representative for more than two decades, and she has honed her message at innumerable industry conferences and workshops. In brief but information-packed chapters, Piscopo explains how to define the type of work you do, research different categories of clients, and persuade them to hire you. She deals with the nitty-gritty of portfolio presentation (how much do you show?), writing the selling "script" (what do you say and how do you tailor it to your audience?), and negotiating costs. Other chapters discuss how to work with a rep and a marketing coordinator. Throughout the book, first-person accounts by successful photographers add welcome practical details. While the level of detail on most topics is unusually thorough (where else are you likely to read about how to leave a voice mail message for a potential client?), a few areas could profitably be expanded or tweaked. There is a lot more to be said about styles and pitfalls of Web marketing, and the chapter on press releases could use the cautionary advice of someone on the other side (a newspaper or magazine editor). And maybe the next edition could lose all those distracting exclamation marks. Piscopo's cheerful, down-to-earth style is plenty persuasive without them. --Cathy Curtis ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A business tool for the professional photographer
If you are new in the photography business or you are looking to overhaul your marketing strategies, Maria Piscope book "the guide to marketing and self promotion" will help. In todays rapid change of the photography business good self promotion is the key. Maria Piscope leads your from the basic to the more advanced marketing strategies of the industry. A must read for the beginner as well as the established photographer. The modern artist has to be a good business person this book will be a good start. ... Read more

Book Description

2005 Photographer's Market provides photographers with the key guidelines they need to sell their work and build a career. This updated edition provides:

*2000 listings covering every possible opportunity, including magazines, stock agencies, ad firms, book publishers, newspapers, businesses, galleries, and--new this year--art fairs

*Fresh business advice, from the latest developments in the stock photography market to new information on how to break into book publishing markets

*Insider advice from a variety of experts, including Pulitzer prize-winning photojournalist John Kaplan, acclaimed nature photographer Nancy Rotenberg, and innovative advertising photographer Chip Simons

This is the essential market guide for aspiring and professional photographers everywhere. ... Read more

Book Description

Displaying the same wit and charm that made her Creative Techniques for Photographing Children a commercial success, Vik Orenstein shoots straight with photographers on what it takes to build a successful photo business. She combines big-picture thinking with a soft touch to deliver sound, practical advice on such core topics as developing a marketing plan, building a clientele, networking and maintaining creative fulfillment.

The guide is a major asset for:- Amateurs seeking a friendly overview of the business - Established photographers delving into a new niche - Freelancers interested in selling stock - Photographers starting their own studio

At 320 pages, the book's simultaneous deep and broad treatment makes it an excellent companion to the business-focused introduction found in Photographer's Market. Vik also covers such important specialties as wedding, commercial and nature photography in individual chapters and frequently complements her own advice with that of industry experts. ... Read more

Book Description

From standard practices in stock and assignment photography to special one-time decisions such as acquiring a digital workstation, this “business bible” provides the latest answers to any legal or business question an aspiring or professional photographer can ask.In eleven in-depth chapters, over two dozen industry experts offer practical guidance on such topics as estimating prices, formalizing agreements, using electronic technology, and much more.This completely updated Sixth Edition also features dozens of ready-to-copy legal and business forms, helpful checklists, and an extensive cross-media bibliography.

The American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) has been the leading national organization of professional photographers for more than 50 years.It is the accepted authority setting the standards for business practices in professional photography. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great Stuff!
For anyone in the business or especially getting into it, this is a must have book. Very valuable!

A critical introduction to the market and reference book
In today's marketplace, it is critical that the fledgling professional photographer know how to survive. This book takes a pragmatic approach to a wide variety of topics that any professional photographer needs to understand. Frequently misunderstood concepts like copyrighting your work (and preserving copyright for future generations), writing contracts, setting client expectations, logistics for photo shoots, and stock photography market saturation are among a host of issues addressed. If you are entertaining even a glimmer of the notion of entering the world of professional photography, this book is necessary. It can save you A LOT of time, hassle, and tears shed. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

The best book you can buy on the business of photography
Photographers can be overwelmed by the sheer number of business books that don't quite fit the bill. They seem to be revisions from other industries. ASMP has done an incredibly valuable service to the industry with the publication of this book. It is informative without boring the reader, it has valid statistics that really help photographers, and it gives working photographers what they didn't get in school: a business education. Buy this book! ... Read more

Book Description

PHOTOGRAPHY: FOCUS ON PROFIT is a combination profitability handbook and business automation software that enables photography students and experienced professionals to reach the level of profitability and professionalism that is needed to grow in today’s competitive marketplace

By using the PHOTOGRAPHY: FOCUS ON PROFIT package on the job, photographers will

* automatically calculate a profit whenever applicable
* ensure a timely return of revenues through instant processing of bills, reminders, and invoices
* create a “virtual paper trail” in the office that can be easily accessed at every stage of the workflow
* apply effective copyright licensing terms to all estimates, invoices, and confirmations
* carry out customized promotions in time-efficient, professional manner
* create documents and reports from cutting-edge, time-proven templates
* instantly call up status reports, detailed client information, and track records
* implement the “best practices of photography” in their business procedures ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Essential Gear
Beginner,amateur or professional; "Photography-Focus on Profit" by Tom Zimberoff is a must have for all photographers. Tom provides a written road map that is invaluable to not just the individual, but to photographers as a whole. He guides you from the basics of starting out; continues through the do's and dont's on up to maintaining profitability in this tight market.

That's not all. He also includes the "PhotoByte" program. This amazing software keeps track of all assignments from birth to conception. It guides you step by step.

Want to know how much profit you have made from a particular image? It does it! It keeps track of all profits in general and by individual photographs (it even displays the photo). Want to know which customers still owe money, which one's pay on time and how much profit (or loss) from a particular customer? It does that as well.

Don't want customers seeing the markup on your services? Enter the item(s) and Photobyte shows it on the screen and calculates everything for you... automatically. It even add's the sales tax for you! Keeps track of equipment (with serial numbers), customers, jobs...

This program is heaven sent which means Tom is an angel. If you need direction then this book will give it to you. The program is just icing on the cake.

As a former photographer for the military in Hawaii; I moved to Puert Rico to start anew due to the economic slowdown caused by the 9/11 tragedy. I've worked for many people but never on my own (photography). I had the practical photo experience. But the business side was a stretch and I could only go by "general" business practices.

Tom's book showed me that "general" does not apply to photography. "Focus on Profit" is exactly that. "Focused".

Thanks Tom. This is the best Photography business book I have ever read. It stays on my desk at all times.

An Unbeatable Resource
I would consider this book required reading for anyone interested in ensuring their photography career is a profitable one! Focus On Profit is a sensible, easy read with a wealth of information about running a successful business.
The computer software "Photobyte" that is included with it has streamlined my business more than I can say.
I highly recommend this book.

An essential, basic guide
Photography: Focus On Profit isn't just another beginner's how-to guide on taking or marketing pictures. Photography: Focus On Profit culls the industry's best practices, using software to put its lessons into practice. Photographers are given all the information needed to incorporate profitability into their efforts. Chapters provide specific guidelines geared to profitability, from buying equipment only when and as needed to generate an immediate payback, to defining a potential customer base. An essential, basic guide. ... Read more

Book Description

A fashion and commercial photographer since 1968, and also a filmmaker, Sarah Moon is known for her dreamlike images and her representation of femininity as free from time and context, as living in a fairy world. Although Moon has been a major participant in the world of fashion for more than three decades, she has carefully carved out her own niche -- a signature style that dispenses with the erotically suggestive poses favored by many of her male counterparts in favor of the emblems of luxury and nostalgia. Mystery and sensuality are at the core of Moon's work, whether she's photographing haute couture, still life, or portraiture. In this book, Moon's first major retrospective, viewers will be treated to a visual tour-de-force, showing all the genres she has explored in her rich and diverse career. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Comments...
Hmmm... "too much technique"... very interesting, this reminds me of the reaction of the art world to the inclusion of photography as an art form back about 40 years ago.. "not enough technique"... But, now we have an artist, using photo graphic images she has taken, and manipulating them in the most incredible and extraordinary ways. These go way beyond photography, yet have the sense of caught moments in early photo history using silver plate technique.
Regrets? Yes, the cover, though handsome, seems cheap and too fragile to include with the excellent quality of the photo reproductions inside; and I would like to have more information on her "techniques." I feel that Sarah is probably afraid to discuss it since she will likely be snubbed by the photographic world, especially if she does anything outside of a dark room with conventional tools, very sad.

Too much technique
I wanted to like this book and I probably would have liked it more if it had been about 1/3 as long. The technique weighs down the images and I could only take small doses. Not that it's a bad technique, it's just too redundant for my taste when presented in this quantity.

Exquisite Narrative Photography
Sarah Moon creates enchanting visual poetry in an exquisitely produced book.

Excellent images, POOR QUALITY cover!
The previous reviews cover the quality of the images in this book. I cannot say it any better. So, I'll touch on one little pet peeve I have.

I'm puzzled that Arena Editions would release this book with such an inferior cover. The compressed, uncoated cardboard cover just invites disaster! Not only is it prone to staining, it is also VERY susceptible to moisture and denting... much more than the average hardcover

I know, I know... "you should be careful when handling books... blah blah blah" That doesn't do away with the fact that this book demands to be handled! The images are too good to let this simply be a "coffee table" book. This is a sure fire page turner that must be protected in some way.

Before purchasing this book, I STRONGLY suggest you also purchase some soft cotton gloves and a book cover of some sort; and most of all, don't out it on the coffee table!!!

With unusual and absorbing drawings
This weighty and uncluttered coverage of artist Sara Moon's unusual and absorbing drawings are each centered on a white page providing excellent contrast and a uniform approach to both her black and white and color works. These take the form of juxtaposed sections of color and old-fashioned daguerreotype-type images, all the more striking for their organization and presentation. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Book Description

Photography is in the midst of a revolution. Rohn Engh shows part-time and professional photographers how to compete with the big agencies by using the Internet--the new frontier of stock photography sales--and by determining how their images, both traditional and digital, are delivered and paid for. A comprehensive guide, sellphotos.com covers everything for photographers from Internet basics and the nature of the stock photography trade to building their own web sites and operating their own business. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Good photo marketing and business book
If you've read Rohn Engh's previous book titled Sell and Re-Sell Your Photos, then you might want to skip SellPhotos.com. Approximately half of the information is straight out of Sell and Re-Sell Your Photos.

That said, I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning about the stock photography business. It covers a variety of business-oriented topics, such as forms, letters, pricing, marketing, legal issues, etc. The author's words are very encouraging--by the time you're done with this book, you will feel confident enough to run a successful stock photography business.

As for "Establishing a Successful Stock Photography Business on the Internet," this book falls short. This book was published in January 2000, when the internet was still very much the wild west. The internet, as well as technology in general, has evolved quite a bit in the past few years, making some of the information in this book obsolete.

If you don't mind weeding out the obsolete information, then I recommend this book.

Out of date
The book was decent and informative but out of date.It does give you a good idea about using the internet and setting up a web site to help sell your photos in the marketplace.
It was published in 2000. It refers to using windows 95 & 98 and modems with 2800 baud. It is out of date, he needs to update the book.
I paid a discount price of 13.99 for it but it should be selling for less.
I read his other book "How to sell and resell your photos" which was a very good book for photographers thinking of going into stock photography.
It would be nice to see an update with the newer XP operating system and newer software programs and web sites listed.

SellPhotos.Com: Your Guide to Establishing a Successful Stoc
This book does have alot of good information in it about establishing an online stock photography business.

I gave it three stars because it is severlly outdated on the technology and URL's that are included as examples.

SellPhotos.com
This book has alot of information to help the novice get started in the right direction. There are several tips and points that can help almost anyone get started in Stock Photography.

A major problem that I have with the book; some of the information is dated. The technology is mid to late 90's and several of the links in the book used as examples are broken URL's (they don't work)

Author shares enthusiasm and experience
This is a wonderful combination of enthusiasm and practical advice. He is like a kind uncle who wants to show you his favorite subject and help you decide how to make your own version of photography work. ... Read more

Book Description

Full of instructive images and insightful hints, this book is indispensable for photographers who want to boost their wedding-album business. Showcased are the album styles of 15 top wedding photographers, with insight provided into each artist's creative process, client service skills, and album design. Examples include Michael Ayers's one-of-a-kind pop-up albums; photojournalism trendsetter Andy Marcus's magical designs; and Gigi Clark's unique presentation in an archival box. Savvy photographers will learn how to turn an album purchase into a multiple-album sale, how to add on à la carte images, and how to make networking and referrals generate business so they can concentrate on photography. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Amazing
Bob Coates has an eye for professionalism and elegance. His work is amazing, I've seen it first hand and will recommend him to everyone who asks. You can learn a lot from this book whether you are a wedding professional or your having a wedding of your own.

Excellent book on the subject
When I first turned the pages, the creative elegance in the photos and album designs grabbed me. Initially, I went through the whole book just gazing at all the amazing work from these top photographers. It's very inspiring. On the second pass, I studied the invaluable business tips they shared with Bob who tells us all about it in a very easy-to-read flow.

What it boils down to is, if you're a wedding photographer who wants to get ahead in your career, this is one of those must-have reference books.

Very informative book!
Well written book! Very informative and inspiring. It's fun to see how other top professionals are putting there albums together. Especially from other countries. It keeps you on the cutting edge! This book has inspired me to want to put together new and creative albums and up my sales! Bob is very informative and eagar to teach and help others. Well done!

WOW - extremely well written and very helpful! Bravo!!
WOW!! This book is full of GREAT information. I just got it yesterday and have read it from cover to cover. It is amazing the ideas for wedding albums that are in there - things sure have changed since I got married. My little white book of 4 x 6 photos just doesn't cut it anymore. After reading Bob's book and shooting my first wedding, I am going to use the book to be more creative at making a wedding album for my clients. I know they will love them!!

Growing my business
With 15 of the industries top wedding photographers giving tips and advice, this book has been a big help. This book is perfect for any wedding photographer that wants to improve thier sales. I've used many of the ideas in my own business and continue to grow both artisticly and financialy. I refer to it often. The best 25 bucks I've spent on a book in a long time! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Single vision, not single minded
As a professional photographer in the throes of a major repositioning effort, Selina's book provides valuable insight into how to carve out a single vision in 15 to 18 images, wrapped, packaged or otherwise presented in a way that supports that vision. The book doesn't pull any punches. It isn't for the on-the-fence photographer. If you want to win, you have to play to win. There is an investment in time, in money and in patience...none of which are particularly pleasant when faced with the uncertainty of a complex and ever-competitive market. My only disagreement with her - and the reason I rated the book 4 out of 5 stars - is because I feel that the biggest obstacle to getting an assignment is not knowing the right people. Salina thinks it's all about the work. I have found that my biggest assignments came from contacts in the industry. All of us who work on a national level are technically proficient, and most of us are bright, talented and driven. Yes, our styles cover the broadest spectrum imaginable, but what really seperates us is our contacts. With the onset of digital, photography as we once knew it is history. And that's the dirty little secret of this business...If it isn't perfect, we'll fix it in photoshop. My suggestion to anyone entering this field is to network like your life depended on it. Believe me, it's where the line in the sand is drawn.

Required reading
Regardless of whether you are a professional, student and/or considering a career in photography, this is one of the few books that you can learn from today and in the future. With more than 25 years as a consultant to professionals, Selina has the experience and vision to show photographers how a sellable portfolio can be created: from selecting a visual point of view image selection, editing images, sequencing & all the way to portfolio case selection. The marriage of: concepts, text and photos are presented logically and in a way that makes the information easy to understand and apply. If you really want to succede in today`s market, then this is the book you need to begin your journey.

This book is like a glass of water in the desert
Most commercial photographers know about Selina Oppenheim, but only a lucky few make the investment to hire her for her expertise in portfolio development and refining your vision as a photographer. Even though hiring Selina as a consultant was one of the best decisions I have made as a photographer, I still wanted to read her book to make sure I hadn't missed anything she has to say about marketing myself as a photographer. I can say from personal experience that this book distills the essence of her one-on-one consulting. This book is really, really worth learning from.

A clear, succinct vision based portfolio guidebook.
Selina Oppenheim is one of the premier creative consultants in the photography industry. Although no single book could possibly encompass her 25+ years of portfolio building and marketing experience, Portfolios That Sell gives you the opportunity to dive into her portfolio building process that she's used to develop so many exceptional photographers portfolios. It clearly and succinctly lays out the step-by-step process that you can follow to develop your own vision based portfolio. The photos that Selina chose to use as examples work well and will both guide you and encourage you to create new portfolio visuals.

"An invaluable resource." Karen Frank, Photo Ed. O Magazine.
This book is an invaluable resource, an absolute essential for the photographer creating his portfolio for the first time, and a gift to the more seasoned photographer hoping to resposition or recreate herself. Selina's message is important: define your vision, show your vision, your vision will sell! With strong examples and insights from photographers and industry experts as well as clear advice and practical excersises, Selina guides you through the challenging and rewarding process of creating a handsome, thoughtful and marketable portfolio. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Sane advice from a successful pro
Shaw gives realistic advice on the difficult work needed to make a living as a nature photographer. He conveys a sense of what magazine editors and other buyers of nature photography want in terms of quality, composition and subject through both his writing and many photographs. Practical advice on the more mundane aspects of running a photography business and the submission process is given in a clear and concise manner. Of note is his advice to start out by learning to write well so that you can submit full articles with photographs that are more likely to get published than stand-alone photos.

This book is well recommended for people interested in making some money off their hobby, serious about making nature photography their career, or just curious as to how nature photographers earn a living. The only drawback to the book is that it is a few years old and some of the material, particularly on digital photography and manipulation, is a bit dated.

Whole Truth from a Pro for Aspiring Pros
Ah, the glamorous and exotic life of a professional nature photographer. Wouldn't it be great to give up the daily grind and explore wild places while on assignment for a big magazine? That's the first myth of the business John Shaw dispells in this no-secrets-hidden book.

Chapter by chapter, he reveals what has worked for him in his 25 years as a full-time nature photographer. No preaching, no cheerleading -- just the straight scoop on what works and what doesn't from one of the most-recognized how-to authors on the subject.

This volume departs from Shaw's photo field techniques advice of earlier titles and dives head-first into the business end of nature photography. It's full of sound advice for beginner or pro. And the information is written in John's clear, concise, clean style. It sounds cliche, but this book must be read by anyone thinking about this business -- preferably before you give up your day job.

And if going pro isn't what you really want to! do, then learn nature photography techniques from this expert teacher in his four previous books.

Know what you are buying
BEFORE YOU BUY THIS BOOK. Understand that this book is nearly 10 years old and focuses on a business model that is near extinct.

When this book was first printed in 1996 it would have been considered a basic "seminar in a book" about selling and establishing income from nature photography. While the book does have some timeless information on common sense, it for the most part is archaic in content.

There are many fans of John Shaw out there but when it comes to buying a book and expecting content that I can use, my own expectations are to get the product as advertised.

If you want a John Shaw book on nature photography, stick to his other publications. This one belongs next to DOS 4 and my Windows 3.1 manuals.

An Oldie but Goodie
This book was a top-notch guide in its time that has unfortunately been overtaken by events.

Shaw tells you just about everything that one needed to know to become a successful nature photographer a decade ago, based upon his own experience. There is nothing in this book about photography techniques (although Shaw has written plenty of excellent books that do just that.) This book is crammed with practical business advice, from broad guidance like what subjects to shot for the most sales, to nitty-gritty advice like how to package your photos for mailing. He answers questions that other photography marketing books don?t begin to address: why is nature photography different from other commercial photography (nature sales are mostly from an existing stock of shots); what is the minimum-sized library needed to go into the business (at least 1000 first-class bread and butter photos of a variety of subjects); and similar questions.

Shaw's writing is direct and simple. Some of what he says I certainly know to be true from my own very brief experience in a commercial photography market and other things he says, of which I have no experience, have the true ring of advice of which I would never have thought on my own.

Shaw includes many of his own beautiful nature photographs in the book. And he at least makes some attempt to tie the pictures to what he is talking about. I?m not too concerned that the connections are sometimes tenuous. After all, how do you illustrate the advice to consider having your contract with a stock agency include the obligation to provide you with tearsheets?

So what's wrong with this book? Well, it's eight years too late. This book was published in 1996. Since that time the development of electronics has changed the photography field. Shaw's description of filing systems was written before some of today?s excellent computer-based storage and tracking systems were available. Most importantly, digital imaging was just a blip on the radar that only merited mention in a three-page appendix. When published, editors would only consider color slides for use. Today, more and more of the people who buy (or really, lease, as Shaw makes clear) photography are willing to consider digital images. And I suspect that the presentation of those images to prospective purchasers and the preparation of those images by the photographer for use have greatly changed the procedures suggested by Shaw.

It is a shame because this book is so clearly and usefully written. No other book on the business of nature photography has been so helpful in the past. Even more of a shame is that I have heard Shaw say he has no present plans to update this book.

So, if you are a nature photographer who wants to learn how to go into business, get this book. But buy yourself of subscription to the magazine Digital Photo Pro. And stay tuned for further updates.

Great read
This book is full of info. Great for someone just starting out. Well written! I usually struggle through books, but could not put this one down. ... Read more

Book Description

World renowned makeup artist Francois Nars started photographing just two years ago. Deciding to art direct his own marketing campaign, Nars started casting and shooting models. The results were smashing: soon ads appeared in W, Harpers Bazaar, and Allure, featuring stunning full-frame images of strikingly elegant women, in very untraditional casting, showcasing his new, blazing hot NARS line of cosmetics.

The famed designer decided to expand his vision: create an enormous art book with over two hundred richly stylized presentations of elegance, featuring his favorite personalities from the worlds of fashion, design, film-even passersby on the street: people who personified to Nars the very notion of bold and audacious chic.

Nars then set about travelling the globe and inviting each individual to sit for him, styling each portrait session according to the sitters metier, personality, and elan. The results are simply stunning: 240 immense color portraits-creations, really-extracting the essence, as with an X ray, of the worlds most remarkable individuals: Alexandra Von Furstenberg, Alexander McQueen, Amber Valletta, Angelica Huston, Anna Sui, Betsy Bloomingdale, Boy George, Bridget Fonda, Dave Navarro, Donatella Versace, Eartha Kitt, Francesco Clemente, Grace Jones, Hamish Bowles, Isabella Rossellini, Ivanka Trump, Jacqueline de Ribes, Juliette Lewis, Kate Moss, Lauren Hutton, Lauryn Hill, Marc Jacobs, Paloma Picasso, Penny Marshall, Polly Mellen, Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, RuPaul Charles, Stephanie Seymour, Sylvia Miles, The Divine David, Tim Burton, Verushka, and many, many others.

X-Ray is not fashion photography: it is a portraiture of style that is meta-fashion. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

An excellent example of the power of cosmetics.....
Francois Nars' first collection of portraits is a fascinating "read"(there's only a few pages of text). The images, the fantasy, the creative process are what is important.

Nars photographs his subjects simply, against a white background in most cases, although some have more extensive set work. The emphasis is on the face and of course, the makeup. The makeup is, in a word, stunning. Nars mixes wild and fanciful theatrical makeup with more subdued, practical makeup. Understandably, the wild makeup makes a deeper impression, but the range of the makeup highlights Nars' skill. My particular favorites are Shalom Harlow as Snow White(though I've seen a less graphic version of the portrait where's she's simply showing her garter, not her panties), Susan Sarandon looking stunning in wearable, pretty makeup, and the picture of a performance artist in full-body makeup with wild wig and face. There is full frontal nudity in this book, but it is not portrayed in a sexual way. In fact, if anything, many of the subjects who are fully clothed are more sexual than the nude ones.

It's hard to judge Nars' caliber as a photographer. Are the photos stunning, or is it simply what the pictures are of that makes them so intriguing? It's a fine line, but the pictures are playful, attractive, and well thought out. The subjects are famous people, many presented in a new and different way then we've seen them before. I definitely would advise people to check it out.

A portrait photo book of models & adult images
This is a large 11 x 15 book of portraits of 241 subjects. The book is attractively printed in Italy. There basically is little writing: a one page introduction by Andre Leon Talley and a one page end by Nars. It is in summary not a thing of beauty but a freak show. The makeup looks like circus grease paint. Nars writes: "Though I worked for years with some of photography's greatest artists, I never planned to be a photographer. It happened naturally when I started my makeup line in 1994 and needed to create an image for the product. Having no budget for a star photographer, I decided to do it myself." Big mistake. Nars should have remained a makeup artist. His idea of portraiture is white backgrounds and light tent even lighting which really is product photography lighting. Models like Karen Elson who appears in the Nars catalogue are shown in unattractive poses sucking on a cigarette and looking plain. Joceyln Wildenstein is a subject next to a model dressed up as little red ridding hood. There is a particular attraction to head on full frontal male nudity. Grace Jones is shown grabbing her crotch. Smokey eye makeup is highlighted on the boys. And a young teen "school girl" is shown suggestively in lingerie. It is hard for me to believe that the majority of purchasers of Nars' makeup would want to look like the images in this book and I find the release of this book ironic at the same time Nars has a national magazine highlighting his digital makeovers. This is definitely an "adult" book with images some may find offensive.

X - Ray
This book is amazing. The subjects used are surreal. The effect Nars gives is futuristic and sexy. His portraits are spectacular. At first glance, the collection may seem overwhelming, but concentrating on each picture made the book very enjoyable to look at. I recommend this to any collection of photography books.

Great Makeup, ok pictures
The makeup in this book is great, the book is also great, the only thing I dont like is as a photography who does beauty photography I see no change in camera angle. All pictures are shot from one position. But all and all it is an amazing book.

Amazing- Pure talent
After looking at the amazing photographs in X-Ray, I wanted more, the book is awesome and the pictures vary vastly from page to page. I have two words for you Pure Talent! ... Read more

Book Description

The photographer's definitive business and legal resource is now completely updated and expanded.In this valuable guide, arts attorney Leonard DuBoff takes you step by step though all the legal aspects of the photography business.Here is expert advice for everything from contracts to trademarks, including government licenses, taxes, censorship, the rights of privacy and publicity, leases and insurance, estate planning, and more.This latest, up-to-the minute edition pays special attention to the legal challenges that have been brought about by digital cameras and the Internet.With the important legal advice found in this guide, you'll save thousands of dollars in attorney fees–and find expert legal assistance when you need it the most. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A basic survey of photographers' rights and obligations
Digital imaging and the Net offer both new markets and legal challenges for photographers: Leonard Duboff's Law In Plain English For Photographers provides a survey of the rights and responsibilities of modern photographers, covering the latest rulings for copyright and trademark law, surveying contract structures and leases, and providing a host of everyday business and legal concerns. An excellent, basic survey of photographers' rights and obligations. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An "I can do this " book
I've bought a couple of lighting books that showed rather complex multi-light setups with hairlights,gobos,booms,backgrounds,barndoors yada,yada,yada that left me thinking "hmmmm,I wonder if I can do this??"
This book displays beautifull portraits with simple ambient light, single light, easy soft box etc. setups with clear setup diagrams with the portrait shown. An example, hardly ordinary, was one shot of Tony Blair where the photographer had literaly 180 seconds to setup for the sitting. It made me feel "hey, I CAN do THAT!".
Simple well written for the contemplative novice(me I hope).

BUGMAN840
MY FIRST PORTRAIT LIGHT BOOK, IT IS ONE I'LL KEEP AND LEARN FROM FOR YEARS. I AM NOW STUDYING THIS AREA IN COLLEGE AND IT REALLY HELPS IN CLIMBING THE LEARNING CURVE. ... Read more

Book Description

Shooting & Selling Your Photos combines beautiful show-and-tell photography, straightforward, authoritative instruction, updated technological information and complete coverage on breaking into today's photography market.

The book is divided into three parts: "Shooting," "Building Your Image" and "Selling." By covering all three areas, Jim Zuckerman offers everything readers need to get serious about their photography. Zuckerman shows readers how to:
*pick powerful subjects
*decide between film and digital formats
*create dynamic portfolios in print and online
*use the Internet for marketing, self-promotion and photos sales
*understand the inner-workings of stock photo agencies
*get noticed with creative, professional submissions ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Good overview: what you need to go pro
Jim Zuckerman's book provides a great coverage of all the steps involved with becoming a professional photographer. You'll learn what gear you need, potential markets and needs, presentation, etc. The book gives you a lot of ideas on how to get started as a pro. However, the book does have two drawbacks that prevent me from giving it 5 stars.

- It's very negative on digital, which I find suprising given the book's publication date. The reasons given for why film is better than digital are silly, in my opinion; stories include pictures mysteriously disappearing from cards and cards being corrupt. My advice: buy good gear and practice with it before you shoot it for real. I've used a DSLR for 6 months. I spent the money to buy a good camera body and a professional card, and it has worked well for me in conditions ranging from 80F to -20F, from high to low moisture. Digital is no different than film: practice, make sure everything works, learn your gear's limits... then use it.

- The book doesn't explain the photographs. One of the things I like in other photography books (including others by Jim Zuckerman) is that pictures have captions telling you the camera body, the lens, the film, the exposure length, the f stop, and so on. Sadly, this book doesn't share that information.

A great resource
This book is a great resource for those people who are interested in selling their own photos. It is well written and researched by a professional photographer who writes from his own personal experience. The advice he gives is straight-forward and honest, and he even will share a few "don'ts". I recommend this book to anyone who is thinking of turning professional themselves. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (2)

Beautifullyi llustrated by some very good photographers
I have mixed emotions about this book. The book is beautifully illustrated by some of the leaders in the wedding field. The tone of the book, though, is often gushingly sentimental, which may be the state of wedding photography today(Try out a fuzzy picture of a bride daydreaming over her SHOES). Still, Hurter tries to present a balanced picture of wedding photographer as it is today - discussing traditional vs. photojournalism approaches and their pros and cons.
The pictures are well-worth seeing, but if Hurter's style turns you off, you might be more rewarded by Steve Sint's "Weddding Photography: Art, Business and Style,'' which also is beautifully illustrated but more down to earth, practical and objective. Better still, read them both and find a balance somewhere in the middle.

An Elegant Primer on Wedding Photography
Unlike many how-to photography books of this genre, The Best of Wedding Photography is a very beautiful book filled luscious wedding photographs. The photographers selected are from well-known wedding photographers in the field. For the photographs alone, you will want to go back to this book again and again. It is also wonderful handbook on photographic tips and techniques from the masters in the field. Great advice on portraits, groups, lighting, various approaches and albums. All these topics are illustrated with lavish pictures. It is a wonderful primer for anyone starting out in the business. ... Read more

Amazon.com

What distinguishes Rohn Engh's book on how to sell photographs--now in its fourth edition--from the many volumes on the subject? Could it be his honest, no-nonsense approach to the topic, as opposed to the get-rich-quick slant of many competitors? His practical, step-by-step advice? His pragmatic sales techniques and principles, which teach niche marketing and explain the vast difference between good pictures of popular subjects (sunsets, wildflowers) and the type of photographs in demand by the editors who actually buy them? All of the above and more, including solid advice about selling photos in the electronic age. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Excellant Guide to Stock Photography
Author Rohn Engh has written an excellant book that serves as both an introduction to stock photography, and a practical primer for stock photographers wishing to increase their sales. His method of photo analysis (P= B+P+S+I) allows the stock photographer to simply analyze the marketability of a photo before the shutter is released.

Mr. Engh definitely re-invigorated our photo game plan with a book that was fun to read and hard to put down. One of the best we have ever read.

Step By step, Complete guide to selling stock photography
Ron Engh speaks stricktly from experience the steps of building a successful stock photography business from your mailbox. His tools and ideas have all been utilized and proven with his own "Photo-Source International". If you are interested in breaking into the Stock Photo industry or you want to refine your business, this book is a requirement. You will save a lot of money and time trying to find your corner of this business using his guidelines.

Excellent reference book
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in becoming a professional stock photographer. Rohn Engh's words are encouraging, and fill the reader with confidence.

Some of the information is a little outdated, because the internet has changed some of the industry's standard practices. However, the majority of this book is full of practial information that can still be applied today and for years to come. I've read the book 3 times and I still refer to it frequently.

Helpful, but already dated.
The first chapters of the book are somewhat helpful to those just starting out in photography -- specifically, a great deal of time is spent on differentiating between mere snapshots and marketable editorial material. However, this material isn't particularly helpful if you can already shoot and get marketable results. There are also helpful chapters on marketing your identity, and on the business side of things, including legal issues surrounding editorial shooting, which are the chapters I found to be most helpful.

I do have one major gripe about the book, however, that wiped away two of five stars for me:

With a sizable percentage 35mm pros either shooting digital already or in the process of making the move, this book shows its age by discounting digital as generally inadequate or unsellable. This may have been true in the mid-'90s when a serious professional-quality digital system was still $20,000 or more, but it is no longer true today and thus this book seems like another victim of the digital age, in which 5 years old is very old indeed.

Perhaps it is time for a new edition that discusses the digital workflow and digital sales a little more, instead of merely discouraging the use of digital -- especially now that many publishers and editors are looking for digital specifically.

Really, if you are a serious amatuer who has finally decided to sell your shots to wider markets, I think the Photographer's Market is a much more essential title to have on the shelf.

Good for the beginning freelance photographer
This book has already paid for itself in submissions of "cliched'" photos that I would have made had I not read the book. This book contains sample form letters for cover letters and queries, and describes the best markets to go to. It also contains a program for finding what subjects one is best suited to photographing. ... Read more