Book Description

Photographic Possibilities, Second Edition continues to provide a reliable source of techniques and ideas for the use of alternative and contemporary photographic processes that photographers have come to depend on. Professional photographers and advanced students seeking to increase their skills will discover modern and classic methods of creating and manipulating images.This practical guide integrates technical methods with the aesthetic outcome.It offers readers clear, step-by-step instructions on historic and on contemporary processes that integrate both the technical information and the aesthetic inspiration needed to create outstanding photographs.

This new expanded edition concisely covers the most significant new products, processes, and issues that have effected the practice during the past decade. Two new chapters are exclusively devoted to digital photography, covering the history of digital imaging as well as the latest techniques and practices.Also included is an in-depth discussion on the copyright, which deals with the ethical and conceptual issues surrounding digital imaging that are rapidly changing the world of photography.

*New chapter on digital imaging
*Features artwork for almost 100 top photographers
*Explains key techniques such as Cyanotype, Polaroid transfers, and Photo Weaving ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great! A must read for serious photographers.
This is a very good book that covers many of the less well known photographic processes and materials. It is well written and provides clear instructions about using the various processes. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (10)

If you're a serious amateur photographer, buy it.
For any serious amatateur photographer (and I can't say about professional photographers, because I'm not one), the Kodak Professional Photoguide is indispensible. It's seven tabbed chapters take one quickly to reference materials on every techinical subject concerning picture-taking to which you would need to refer. For instance, the chapter entitled "exposure" contains detail information on every metering technique except the Zone System, as well as containing handy tables on, for instance, ISO film speeds in 1/3 stop intervals, lighting ratios, exposure correction for leaf shutters, and an existing light dial that gives standard exposure times for a variety of hard to meter situations (i.e. moonlit landscapes). If you don't know what any of the above topic are, then the book is too advanced for you. Order Ansel Adams triology (The Camara, The Negative, The Print) and Hornstein's books, read them, then buy the Kodak Professional Photoguide. The only draw backs to the Photoguide are: (1) the descriptions of film are exclusively for Kodak film. Kodak could be a little more ecumenical on this subject; but they are in the business of selling Kodak film, so this is forgiveable; & (2) the 5th edition dates from 1995 and the film information is in fact getting a bit stale. Kodak has introduced not only its APS line of film since 1995, but several new ektachrome films as well as Royal Gold 200 and discontinued a couple of films described there...this, however, is no reason not to buy this book.

Some useful info, but not worth [the price].
When I received this book, I thumbed through it and set it aside to be buried by other things. I think that was an indication of how not unexcited I was about the book. It is intended to be carried as a reference, but didn't fit in my camera bag. Got a new, larger, professional LowePro bag. Didn't fit in there, either.

The book is supposed to be a "professional" photoguide, but much of the information provided would be so fundamental to a pro that a reference wouldn't be needed (e.g., how to use a light meter.). Some topics seem to be too involved for a discussion in a pocket reference and then are neither succinct nor good. Of course, references to film will soon be outdated, and the book didn't have data for Kodak Supra, which I use almost exclusively. Of course, like most Kodak books (which are otherwise typically excellent) the film references are very Kodak-centric.

What is very good are the calculators - one gives you camera settings for unusual situations or ones in case your meter breaks. Another gives filters to correct about any type of light for any type of film. The depth-of-field calculators are useful when I'm shooting 4x5, but they chose to not include them for 35mm, stating that DOF scales are built into the lenses of most 35mm cameras. However, with the rising quality and popularity of zoom lenses, this is a bad oversight, as most zooms do not have DOF scales.

The books does have some good information in it, but left with a sick feeling in my stomach. That is the feeling I get when I feel as though I have wasted my money on something. The cover says $29.95, and it's a few dollars cheaper on-line, but I still feel like I got way too little information for too much money.

There is a smaller, pocketable version that I haven't looked at yet. Perhaps it retains the best info at a lower price, and in a size that fits in my camera bag.

The word "Professional" is key
I wasn't paying close enough attention when I purchased this guide - it's definitely above my level. I'm sure it's chock-full of useful tidbits for professional or pro-am photographers, but I looked through it with a growing sense of frustration, confusion and futility.

There are sections on film types, film care and storage, exposure, filters, flash, lenses, and other important items, but the level of information presented is rather advanced. There are multiple graphs, calculators, and spinning dials to compute correct values. An 18% gray card in the back is very useful for metering, but not worth the price of the whole book, of course.

The size of Kodak's guide is pretty convenient - small enough to fit into most bags without taking up too much space, but not so small that it's unreadable (though the print size is very small.) The charts are in color, and are easy to read. I can't really comment about the actual content provided - while it *looks* very good, I can't be absolutely sure how useful it will be to a true professional.

My feeling is this: if you're a photographer who has a solid grasp of the complexities of the art, but want to take your skills to the next *technical* level, this may be for you. If you, like me, are a relative beginner, who wants to learn how to take better photos overall, this is definitely not it. Perhaps consider Ansel Adam's series instead - a prominent photo magazine editor recommends beginning with _The Negative_.

A very good pocket reference
I think every advance amateur should have a copy of this guide in his/her bag. If for nothing else, the condense film guide and the color conversion/compensation dials alone are worth the money. Yes, you can get the same information somewhere else, but this is the only pocket guide that consolidates everything. Professionals may also benefit from it when they have to change from their routine, such as going to a different film. This book is not for beginners.

Definitely for the pros
The key word on this photoguide is "professional". I'm a professional wannabe, with decent talent and experience, and I found this guide to be a bit over-whelming. But, maybe I'll grow into it and become a better photographer along the way! ... Read more

Book Description

Every gardener who seeks to capture the fleeting moments of perfection in plants and gardens must inevitably turn to photography. In this remarkably clear and informative book, celebrated photographer Ian Adams provides detailed instruction in every aspect of the art and craft of garden photography, from selecting the right equipment to starting a garden photography business. Chapters include such topics as digital cameras, film, filters, sharpness, exposure, abstracts, close-ups, lighting, preparing the garden, garden structures, gardens through the seasons, finding fine gardens, and making color prints. Filled with the author's first-hand experience and expert wisdom, The Art of Garden Photography is certain to be a treasured reference for gardeners and garden photographers. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

the book we have been waiting for
This is in every respect a masterpiece. Competence, didactic skill, glorious photographs and beautiful layout - you find it all in this book. My only quibble: A hardcover edition would have be more practical (pages open flat) and durable. ... Read more

Book Description

Get ready to view your photographs as more than simply the images they have captured as you learn how to digitally transform them. Rather than a traditional step-by-step guide to photography, "Digital Abstract and Macro Photography" is meant to inspire with its images. It offers digital photographers a glimpse into the world of possibilities that exist for transforming traditional photographs into unique, abstract works of art. Each featured photograph is accompanied by a series of images, reflecting the major stages of the creation process. Take your vision to the next level as you discover the eye-catching techniques that can be applied to your photographs. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Not Your Ordinary Pictures
There are times when the plain image your camera produces isn't what you or your customer want. And here in this book is Ken Milburn's description of how he takes plain and ordinary images and modifies them using software to produce images that a Dali or Picasso would find interesting.

The book is arranged with the original camera image at the top left hand side of the left page. Below that are various steps that he went through to get to the desired image which is printed on the right.

Abstract images are, of course, not everyone's cup of tea, but if you want or need to produce them, here is how. In addition to the images presented in the book; there is another chapter, and appendix with third-party links available for downloading from the web.

Beautiful, Inspiring, and Helpful
A friend of mine reviews books for one of the computer magazines and I just saw Digital Abstract & Macro Photography sitting on her coffee table. You might guess right there that this is not your average, overly-wordy "how to" book - the coffee table is appropriate! Anyway, after browsing through a few pages, I found myself captivated and asked if I could borrow it. I am not a digital photography expert, just so you know. This book caught my eye since it appears that Milburn's main purpose in this book is to show what can be accomplished with digital photography -- and where you can take it with a lot of imagination.

All the book's pages are in pairs: the left hand page shows you some of the evolutionary stages of the feature photo on the right hand page. Each of the small photos is accompanied by Ken's conversational description of what he did to get his end result. I can't wait to get a copy of this book for myself. In the meantime, I've dusted off my old little point-and-shoot digital camera -- I'm taking a lot more photos, and am even starting to look around for a more serious camera. Oh - and did I mention that the photos are gorgeous? Ya gotta get this book. ... Read more

Book Description

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

Reviews (4)

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

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

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

I highly recommend this book.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Description

The natural synergy between photography and travel is explored in these exquisite, lavishly illustrated, and instructive pages that demonstrate how artful camera use can record the true spirit of a place.

On this thrilling worldwide tour, the author shows traveling nonprofessional photographers how to bring home memorable pictures of people, festivals, wildlife, architecture-even aerial and underwater shots. Directions are detailed for composing landscapes with a variety of lenses, working in both natural and artificial light. Valuable tips tell how to pack and carry photo equipment, deal with airport and hotel security, and prepare for various locations and weather conditions. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

The Ultimate Travel Photography Book
As one who has written numerous Book Reviews for photo magazines, I have read all the books on travel photography. This one stands head-and-shoulders above the others.

It is the definitive work on this topic by a top pro who makes travel images that are intimate, sensitive to the culture, informed and well-executed: capturing the spirit of the location instead of replicating the postcard views.

Highly recommended for photographers of all levels - particularly those who want to make images as a traveler and not merely as a tourist.

Excellent resource and tool for travel photographers
Spirit of Place, The Art of the Traveling Photographer, is outstanding, full of superb photos accompanied by captions that not only say where the image was taken but also include pertinent details regarding the moment and/or circumstances involved. The text is clear and easily understood, with lots of tips, plus glimpses into Krist's personal philosophy on photography. Travelers, writers, and novice-to-experienced photographers seeking to improve their photo skills will find the book to be a tremendous tool. Krist's distinguished photo career, including publication of his worldwide travel photos in books, major newspapers and the top travel magazines, gives unquestionable credibility to his expertise.

Truly captures what it means to be a travel photographer
I love travel and I love cameras. Unfortunately, as many of us often discover, my photos don't always capture the essence of my travel experience. I know I've been frustrated many times that some quixotic quality of my travels is missing from my photo album.

Bob Krist's book has helped me to see that what I am missing is the spirit of place, which of course is different for every location and every traveler. While the book covers the basics of equipment management, shooting decisions and the like, it is less a technical guide and more of a philosophy of travel. His approach to travel informs his approach to travel photography. He seeks to be a "traveler," not a "sightseer," wanting to engage with the culture in which he finds himself. I find this concept to be especially helpful in pinpointing my own disappointment with my photos. While I follow his approach of being a traveler, I have hesitated to capture the people I meet along the way. It's that element I always feel I am missing in my work.

He gives some tips and insight into how to begin to approach people to get those great people shots, how to get past the initial fear of offending, and how to handle a situation where you might be refused.

Above all, the examples and photoessays speak volumes about how to approach such work. It is clear that Bob Krist is a master in his approach to capturing the essence of a place, whether it be the Jazz Quarter in New Orleans or a blinding snowstorm in Hokkaido. If you are looking for ideas and inspiration to improve the photos you bring back from your next adventure, I'd highly recommend Spirit of Place.

(Gwyn is an enthusiastic photographer who, among other things, travels overseas each summer with teenagers as a People to People delegation leader. Yes, teenagers!)

Very thorough and concise perfect for the novice
This book more than adequately covers what a beginning travel photographer or a novice photographer interested in travel photography should know. Concise and to the point it focuses on exactly what it set out to do - make the photographer become a traveller with respect and love of his surroundings, strange they might initially be and not the boorish tourist! The book is in no way misleading as other books of this nature can be. Great as a stand alone or with Susan B Mcartney's Book

The only travel photography book you will ever need...
This is one of those rare books in which every facet of travel photography is covered. It is written in a very personable style, as if he were talking to you. He first goes over how he prepares to shoot a location and then continues to give you his insight in how to cover each aspect of the shoot. Finally he has a section on photographic gear and films.
The video version of the book (same name, I believe by Nikon) is excellent. As a matter of fact I bought the book after seeing the video. ... 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

The Camera, together with The Negative and The Print, comprise The Ansel Adams Photography Series, a legendary triad of books about photographic technique that has become the most influential "how-to" series on photography ever written. The first edition of this series was completed in the 1950s. Adams completely revised and updated it just a few years before his death, making it his last word on the technical mastery of his medium. Three generations of photographers have learned how to approach the artistic possibilities of their art form through this seminal series. Now available in paperback, it remains as vital today as when it was first published.

The Camera covers 35 mm, medium format, and large-format view cameras and offers detailed advice on camera components such as lenses, shutters, and light meters. Adams' concepts of "visualization" and "image management" are the philosophical cornerstones of the book. Extensively illustrated with photographs by Adams as well as instructive line drawings, this classic manual belongs on every serious photographer's bookshelf. ... Read more

Reviews (15)

The ultimate book for purist photographers!
The Camera, book 1 of 3 in the Ansel Adams Photography Series, is well written with many illustrations of the subjects in each chapter. It also includes many of Ansel's own photo's as examples. The chapters are written for the the novice as well as for the journeyman who want to refresh one's memory on the basics. The latter chapters get more involved with technical information. Book 2 and 3, "The Negative" and " The Print" are eqully well written with an introduction to Ansel's own Zone system. A must read for serious photographers or the novice interested in advanced techniques and/ or terminology. Ansel will go down in history not only as a great photographer but teacher and writer as well. I highly recommend this series to anyone interested in taking better pictures.

A brilliant introduction to the camera
Ansel Adams is indeed one of the most highly regarded photographers ever, and in this first of three instructional books, he reveals much of the foundational wisdom that he gathered over a lifetime taking pictures. The focus of this book is the camera and deals with all types and formats of film cameras and techniques for using them to take wonderful photos.

This book is one of the most common and cherished textbooks used in beginning photography but is indispensable for any interested in better understanding camera arts.

Truly a masterpiece
Just like his photos, this book is a classic. It explains the fundamentals quite clearly, with intuitive diagram and real pictures. Its coverage on view camera is extremely valuable. Although not many people use view camera these days, that chapter is an eye-openner for appreciating some of the best pictures ever taken by Ansel and other classic photographers. Its coverage on the basic principles are very thourough too. A must read for every serious photographer.

Classic
A must have for all those wanting to expand their understanding of cameras in the process of making beautiful fine prints

Great series
This whole series (The Camera, The Negative, & The Print) are highly recommended for anyone seriously interested in learning more about photography and improving their skills. If you're not interested in that, then the books are probably still worth adding to your collection just to see all of Adams's stunning images. ... Read more

Reviews (32)

John Shaw's Landscape Photography is a Must Have
As many admirers of Shaw's work will attest, his books are not only a visual treat, but they are also packed with practical advice and are inspirational for us lesser mortals. Landscape Photography is another fine example of Shaw's approach to a photographic genre and of course, it contains a lot of great hands-on information. Too many landscape photo books focus purely on aesthetics, with little practical information for the amateur photographer. As always, Shaw delivers the how-to and the why in this book. Buy it!

A Conditional 5 Star Rating
This book gets a conditional five stars for reasons I will soon explain.

If you are a novice or intermediate photographer, you want to shoot landscapes, and you want to get only one book, this is the one.

Shaw starts out with the basics of exposure theory and then discusses equipment, film and lenses. The emphasis throughout the discussion here and later is strictly in terms of landscape photography. He moves on to the effects of light, composition and a pot pourri of special problems and solutions.

Shaw is clear, direct and succinct. There is no room for confusion about the points he is making, and he makes all the essential points. No writer gives better instruction. His photographs have been selected not so much to dazzle you with their brilliance as to support his teaching points, although his pictures are beautiful.

So what makes my recommendation conditional?

Well, this book was published in 1994 and there have been several technological changes in photography since then. However, most of what Shaw says here still holds true for landscape photography. What's changed even more is that in 2000 Shaw's book "Nature Photography Field Guide" was published. This later book goes over much of the same material as the landscape book, while taking into account the latest technology. It even uses some of the exact same anecdotes to illustrate points.

The difference between the two books is that one looks at just landscape photography while the other looks at the more encompassing class of nature photography. The Field Guide contains a long chapter on close up photography which may not interest the landscape photographer, while the landscape book aims each chapter exclusively at landscape with slightly more detail.

Most of us aren't exclusively committed to landscape so the Field Guide seems like a better choice if you insist on only one book. But if you're like me, you'll get both books. If you're serious about landscapes the slant of the earlier book might just give you that slight edge to make a better landscape photograph.

A good overview of landscape photography
There are a lot of other photography books out there with the same general content as this book -- an overview of photographic techniques, equipment and the creative process as they relate to landscape photography. Although it is not an outstanding book, it is better than average, primarily because of the clear, direct way in which John Shaw writes, and the practical advice which he provides.

Excellent text
THis book takes the mystery out of landscape photography. The techinal aspects are simply explained and illustrated in many cases which allows the artist at it were in you to be released. Very thoughtful and insightful a must for anyone interested in landscape and even travel photography.

John shaws Landscape Photography
This book give precise and thoughtfull insites on both the technical and creative methods used to produce superior landscapes. There are numerous excellent examples. He does not get bogged down with technical trivia. I would definitly buy this book, it is a bargain. Its only shortcoming is not having a section on digital cameras that are taking over much of the market. These cameras allows instant feedback on photo results including histograms that remove all the guesswork and waiting to get film developed. ... Read more

Book Description

Nick Kelsh's winning formula for creating the consistently top-ranking titles in his category? Simply put, Kelsh can teach anyone--with any kind of camera--to take great pictures, by showing how he takes his own great pictures.

Kelsh presents more than 40 new picture-taking scenarios--the types that fill everyone's photo albums. Whether capturing milestones such as graduations or weddings, or the unexpected occurrence, such as a beautiful sunset or a pet in a funny pose, Kelsh's readers will learn to make images they can be proud of.

Each spread addresses one photo idea, with simple techniques and tips explained using a "predictable amateur photo" compared to the same image improved by professional wisdom. A special 8-page gatefold demonstrates "how to photograph a vacation." These are the photo-ops of our daily lives and, mundane or special, they represent what everyone really wants to know: how to take a picture of a group of friends, how to photograph a private moment, and even how to take a good picture of something you want to sell on eBay.

Special attention is paid to the growing number of people working with point-and-shoot digital cameras. Kelsh has photographed the entire book with one and he includes advice on how to use it as well as image storage for the digital family album.

You've photographed Baby and Family. It's time for the rest of your life in How to Photograph Your Life. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

I fell in love with this book
I enjoyed each moment reading this book. I plan to re-read it multiple times in future years. What makes this book really stand out is that it presents examples of what not to do (pictures that look "common") side-by-side with better ideas, presented using simple and touching text. The design and pictures make this a work of art. It is not about my camera; it is about me. I have been taking photos of my family over 30 years, and this book encouraged me. I want to get out and experiment even more.

Simple tips, practical advice - for the amateur photographer
This is the most practical book on photography I have read. And I have read many, many books over the years.

I would get lost in f/stops and shutter-speeds and light-meters and fiddle endlessly with my SLR camera. I bought this book after I had just sold my SLR and got my first digital camera, a Canon S50. My eyesight is not so good anymore and I wanted an easy to use point and shoot with some manual features.

After reading this book, I have been getting some pretty amazing pictures with my new digital camera. I shoot many, many pictures and come up close to the subject and a lot of the time, just turn off the flash. And the pictures that have resulted are the best I have ever taken (I love taking people-pictures).

Some 30 pictures I took recently of a little girl in a matter of about 45 minutes came out so good, her dad couldnt stop thanking me for the great pictures. To me only two of them were outstanding. Is this my new skill, am I now a terrific photographer? Pshaw ! I simply followed Nick Kelsh's advice and just came in close and shot many pictures. And some of them came out just great. Really !

I now have this book plus Kelsh's "Family" and "Baby" books. Enjoyed reading them and re-inforcing the advice so it becomes second-nature when I am using my camera. By the way, if you like shooting portraits, using window-light is absolutely the best way to go.

Buy this book
As an above amature photographer, I initally found this book to tell me everything I already knew.....Except, this book not only told me why but showed me results in taking photographs the bad way and then the good way. I am on my way to ordering Nick's two other books as soon as I finish this....Thanx Nick

Fun, creative, encouraging!
The focus of this book is creativity in photography for people who haven't done a lot of picture-taking. In addition to showcasing some simple concepts, this book gives creative ideas and suggestions for all kinds of challenging photography situations (birthday parties, family meetings, the list goes on). Kelsh's emphasis is on simplicity and ingenuity, and is guaranteed to transform your ho-hum snapshots into enlargement-worthy favorites.

This book has a few simple concepts that will revolutionize the way you take pictures (as well as the way you look at people). What could be simpler than the tips found in this book? We can all get closer, turn off the flash, take a lot of pictures (a few rolls at a time), and look at situations from unexpected perspectives. And yet, with just these basic tips, Nick Kelsh assures us that we will begin to take photos that will be treasured as instant classics.

Kelsh's tone is encouraging, conversational, and assuring. He is part-professional, part-everyphotographer. He is equally comfortable with portrait photography and snapshots. He avoids technical jargon and sticks with phrases we all like to imagine in connection with our own photos: "the envy of all your friends," "compliments on your photos," "people will ask you to photograph their children," and so on.

You'll love your first reading of it, and I bet it will become a favorite over time. I'm tempted to buy several copies to give to friends. So don't wait -- get it, read it, and start taking pictures of your loved ones! And check out ALL of Nick Kelsh's titles!

Terrific guide for EVERY amateur photographer!!
I picked this book up when I was considering teaching an amateur photography class at an outdoor retreat thinking I might get a few tips and some sample photos to show the class. What a surprise when I realized that this was the perfect, concise, easy-to-understand guide to taking great photographs with a basic, point-and-shoot digital camera! Kelsh is funny, easy to relate to, easy to understand, and obviously very good at what he does. I've since bought all of his books and have given copies of this one to my friends and family. If you like to take pictures, BUY THIS BOOK!! ... Read more

Book Description

Every film or video shoot calls for at least two camera assistants. Camera assistants (or first and second ACs, as they're known) have the important job of maintaining the camera, readying it for use, troubleshooting (such as knowing what to do when a camera drops into the ocean), and preparing it for transport. The Camera Assistant's Manual teaches the complete workflow in easy-to-understand terms and does not assume prior knowledge. It is a must-have on the set for camera assistants and is loaded with reference material such as camera illustrations, forms, charts, checklists, and equations. Invaluable career advice rounds out the book.

·New companion website with extensive forms, charts, and illustrations to print out and use
·Completely updated with information on digital video and high definition cameras that are changing the camera assistant's job
·Career tips and complete job descriptions help camera assistants get and succeed at jobs
·Companion website: www.cameraassistantmanual.com
·Author's site: www.davidelkins.com ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Camera Assistant's Manual is a great tool to have.
The Camera Assistant's Manual, 4th edition is packed with a wealth of valuable tips, tricks, explanations, illustrations, and suggestions for the modern-day camera assistant.This is a good book to have, an excellent reference for a working professional camera assistant and a great teaching tool for film students and people new to the camera department.The companion website offers acollection of links and forms, a superb resource that is always accessible.

THE Textbook for Assistant Camera
Having been trained by David Elkins from the original manuscript of this book, I was eager to read the second addition.

This book is the perfect primer for the beginning Assistant Cameraperson.The details of the cameradepartment, each department broken down into chapters, gives not only anoverview, but a detailed step by step description of the tasks and dutiesof an Assistant Camera.

This has been an invaluable text book for mybeginning Film Students. ... Read more

Book Description

For aspiring photographers ready to transform their work from average to expert, here is the "bible" to lighting any subject and space effectively.In specific but nontechnical terms, Photographic Lighting Simplified explains how to take light sources–from outdoor bright sunlight to indoor household lighting–and recreate their effects in the studio.A series of enjoyable, hands-on assignments show readers tips for selecting the right camera format, film, and lenses; the basics of metering and testing; overviews of essential equipment for studio lighting; and much more.Plus, dozens of step-by-step illustrations demonstrate an array of techniques for lighting reflective metal and glass objects; lighting different face types and groups; and special lighting considerations for digital cameras.For anyone who is serious about taking better photographs, this is the ultimate success guide. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

This Does Make it Simple!
I fell in love with Susan McCartney's photography books when I Mastering the Basics of Photography. This book is just as good at breaking down the elements of light into language and steps even a novice (like me) can understand. I was always frustrated trying to photograph shiny surfaces and trying to capture dramatic shadows. This book has such great tips for dealing with these situations that I actually look for challenging shots now, just to show off what I have learned about lighting.

Introductory Overview Only
I regret to have found this book very disappointing. Susan McCartney's book on travel photography, Travel Photography: A Complete Guide to How to Shoot and Sell, is the very best book on the subject. I've read it twice, some sections even more than twice. I purchased Photographic Lighting Simplified with the same level of quality content in mind. Unfortunately, the book is more "simplified" than what I had hoped for.

The book is very fast and easy to read, but the content is useful only to those with no experience whatsoever in photographic lighting. Susan McCartney has broad experience in lighting, and I was disappointed to find the depth of that experience is not presented in this book. For example, she talks more about traveling with strobes and using flashes for on-location travel photography shoots in her travel photography book than in this one. I would like to have seen more of that experience and knowledge related here.

A book on photographic lighting really needs to be in color with stunningly inspirational photographs. Many of the black and white pictures in this book are really dismal and even technically flawed in some cases. Ms. McCartney is a first-rate photographer and I'm sure the originals are perfect, but the black and white reproductions in this book fall short.

However, those critiques aside, if you have not studied lighting before then this book will provide a good overview for you and introduce you to some new techniques. Those with travel photography in mind should check out Susan McCartney's other book mentioned above. For some really creative lighting techniques try Gary Gladstone's book Corporate & Location Photography.

Basic principals about lishting
Photographic Lighting Simplified is a great book for the beginner like myself. It explains in novice language the details concerning all aspects of photographic lighting. When to use and not to use various lights depending on the situation. The book covers hotlights, flash, strobe lights and accessories. Also covered are exposer-reflective meters to manually set your camera and correct use of the Kodak gray scale for proper exposer. I read the entire 163 pages in about 3 days. The book also has 9 self-assignment for you to try out on you own. All pictures in the book include camera settings and shot detail that make it easy for you to reproduce a similar shot. All photos are in black & white except for the cover page. At first I found this distracting but then realized that black & white photos show the best contrast and light on the subjects in the photographs. I bought the book to improve my knowledge and skills to do lighting for desktop studio photos for Ebay.

Another book that I have heard about but haven't been able to track down yet is Digital Desktop Studio Photography by Rick Ashley & Dennis Curtin. Amazon does not carry this book yet.

Great book if you need to start yourself in lighting
Gives you an overall learning experience from very basic lights and up to the newest technologies, including digital photo, with multiple lights.
In addition it provides some personal assigments so that you can practice what you read.
It is a good investment ... Read more

Book Description

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

Book Description

Reviews (1)

Great book on digital b/w photography-lots of ideas as well
This is a very good book indeed.Basically it covers the concepts you need to know in order to capture good color images on your digital camera that can then later be converted to black and white.It further goes on to explain and suggest all the various options open to you to make this photo marketable and or a work of art.While I don't agree 100% with everything said, I am on board for 95%.The provided photos are great and inspiring and the book address both manual ways in photoshop to convert to B/w (besides just clicking greyscale or desaturate) as well as the plugins available out there.Having said this,be aware that this is a very photoshop centric book too. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

An amazing journey through Heaven on Earth.
This book is absolutely brimming with gorgeous pictures. I bought it the minute I finished looking at it for the first time four years ago. All photographs are tastefully done and convey a sense of wonder at what God has put here on this earth for us all to enjoy. You absolutely have to have this book!!!! It is stunning!!!!!

How to make a boring picture
Pretty amazing -- David Hamilton takes some pictures of some very attractive subjects, in extremely attractive backgrounds, with extremely expensive equipment, and manages to make them look worse than the worst of my holiday photos. Boring, self-conscious... basically, not worth a look. If you like the subject matter, I highly recommend Jock Sturges (for some very laid-back, pretty pictures) or Sally Mann (for some slightly more disturbing overtones.) But skip Hamilton, he's a waste of paper

Rehash of trite commercial images
This collection of Hamilton's work contains bland landscape photography that would fit the formulas of the Sierra Club desk calender; bland images of young girls in the same poses we've seen dozens of times in his other work, saying nothing new and with all the personality of a jeans ad; and self-conscious photos of some Beautiful People that look like they were intended for ads in a fashion magazine. Of course, none of this should be surprising considering that most of Hamilton's work is blatantly commercial and self-indulgent, but some of his earlier books -- Sisters, Private Collection, and so on -- contained genuinely unique, well-composed, and evocative pictures. (Age of Innocence was as boring to me as this book.) The only images that worked for me in Place in the Sun were the photos of flowers, which are very pretty. Seeing one photo of a "native" couple titled "The Noble Savage," and another of a young woman holding handfuls of fruit at crotch level titled "The Fruits of Love" (or something similar) gave me a laugh. For some reason, Hamilton has never gotten over his addiction to silly quotes and captions that cheapen his images. I would certainly prefer that he let them speak for themselves, but then the viewer might have a chance to experience his own response to them, rather than being directed by Hamilton to Hamilton's own narcissistic fantasy.

The "Perfect" Hamilton book for your coffee table!
David Hamilton is perhaps the most talented photographer in the world... This volume is proof. While his other US releases, "The Age of Innocence" and "Twenty-Five Years of an Artist" focus almost entirely upon his obsession with nude girls between the ages of 12-18, "A Place in the Sun" incorporates the beauty of a young girl into the larger, greater beauty of the tropics; Making the beauty of her nude physical form into just one part of the whole of the surrounding beauty of the water, the sky, the beach, and the flora and fauna of the environment of which she is a part. This book is a true journey into fantasy! The topless girl standing on the beach looking out to sea on page 44, the single cloud over the Bali sea on page 104, the peaceful young goddess sleeping in the hammock on page 46... These pictures alone would be with the price.

This is THE most beautiful photography book I have ever seen, and far less controversial than his other US releases... Buy this book. It will one day be a collectors item.

Beautiful girls in the nude
This book contains a variety of beautiful pictures of various things, from deserted beaches, to storm-encroached seas, to even a mule! It also has some excellent photos of young girls, some of which are extraordinary in their perfection of beauty and their playful attitude toward life. I would say there are 10 to 20 photos of beautiful girls in this book. They are well worth the asking price of the book. ... Read more

Book Description

Written by noted AP photographer and photoeditor Brian Horton, this is an insider’s manual to one of the most glamorous and exciting media professions. Emphasizing the creative process behind the photojournalist’s art, Brian Horton draws upon his three decades of experience, as well as the experiences of other award-winning photojournalists, to instruct readers in the secrets of snapping memorable news photos every time. With the help of more than 100 photographs from the AP archives, he analyzes what constitutes successful news photos of every type, including portraits, tableaux, sports shots, battlefield scenes, and more, as well as offering tips on how to develop a style of your own. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Nice introduction book
I bought this book since I want to become a photojournalist.
I am a photographer who has graduated a photo school few months ago. this book isn't for beginners, The little technical data may be misleading if read by a novice. Instead, it deals with content and the thinking and working process of photographers in this field. I find it as a nice introduction to the world of photojournalism,though a little "too good to be true" kind of book. The book definitely doesn't deal with the problems, the deadlines, the failures and the risks. This is like a postcard, where everything is perfect. There is a good side though, it is easily read, and very interesting. You want a more serious book, look some place else...
If you have the spare bucks though, don't hasitate and buy it!!!

Don't Bother
Anyone writing a positive review of this so-called book must be a relative of the author.

Being an avid reader of all things photography, most of the books that actully get published seem to have at least some merit. This book actually achieves the dubious distinction of being utterly useless.

It is nothing more than a scrapbook or stream of consciousness diary of sorts with no substance, no direction and no worthwhile information regarding the picture taking process. This literally could not have taken any effort to "write". The only people who put any effort into this one were the people who chopped down the poor trees to make this thing and the printers and bookbinders who assembled it. Don't waste your time or money on this one. Other than the foregoing, I enjoyed it immensely.

How to think, but not how to see
This book is an excellent primer on the basics of photojournalism, and a good how-to guide on becoming a journeyman photojournalist. With chapters on each of the "bread-and-butter" categories of newspaper photography - sports, features, news, etc. - each section has interviews with veteran AP photographers on how they approach these sorts of assignments, and tips to help ensure that one will come back with a serviceable picture. In short, it's a good book for someone who's just getting their feet wet in the business of newspaper photography, and I'm glad it was one of the first books in my photojournalism library.

But much like AP photojournalism itself, the focus of this book is on how to create simple, clean images that tell the immediate story of the day. Except for some talk of basic "picture packages" in the features chapter, there's no suggestions on how to brainstorm and develop an in-depth photos essay, nor is there much type given on taking risks visually with photography, and creating new and innovative images while documenting the world.

In short, this book is a primer, and a fairly decent one at that. But I would urge anyone who picks this up to also get a book or three of photo essays and see how they can take their work to the next level.

MUST read for Photojournalists
Brian Horton's book is a must read for photojournalists. Do NOT be misled that this is only for Associated Press photographers. Brian has interviewed many photographers on many aspects of being a photojournlist. Be sure to check out his interviews with photographers on how they handle fast-breaking situations. This book is not an f-stop and shutterspeed book but gets into the photojournalist's mind.

Associated Press Guide to Photojournalism
This is a great inside look at photojournalism as it is practiced by the photographers of the world's leading news agency. Their work methods, how they think and react to a situation, and the forces that motivate them are all fascinating reading. And, the book is so current. It seems like only yesterday that we saw many of the photographs in this book first in our daily newspaper. Several of those photographs are analyzed in depth. The future of photojournalism also is discussed. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Nice Work
The title is a bit grandiose; Advanced Techniques might lead you to expect an encyclopedic coverage of a wide variety of techniques, which you will not find. The Fine Art moniker might suggest large format photography; you won't find that, either. What you will find is a compact presentation of some nice images with technical details and a bit of a storyline for each.

The format is 35mm with film capture. The body used and, more importantly, film type are not identified, however. Looks like Velvia to me, mostly. There are some strong illustrations of the use of filtration and multiple exposure.

If the price were as grandiose as the title I'd balk. But for the price it would make a nice addition to your bookshelf -- there is some nice work here.

Nice Photos, Short on Instruction
Sweet's book is basically a portfolio of about 50 images, with camera, lens, filter, and exposure information.

The photos are great, but the explanations that go with them are fairly terse and could provide more instruction.

empty spaces
The book contains cute photos, but not enough, the author's site is much better.

Fine Art from a Camera
This book is magic. Tony shows great composition skills, and includes tremendous color in h