February, 2008
Take Your Photography to the Next Level is based on a series of essays that were originally featured on the http://www.luminous-landscape.com/ website, but it is not simply a reprint of those articles. Barr has rewritten much of the material for the book to expand upon and clarify the original information. He has also provided helpful photographic examples to illustrate complicated concepts in a way that hits home with the reader.
This is not a book about the technical aspects of photography; it does not discuss apertures or shutter speeds. It does not focus on the equipment used for photography, but rather on the person using the equipment. After all, more expensive gear is not the solution to better photos if a photographer is also lacking in creativity and artistic abilities. This book addresses the fact that a photo can be technically perfect, but still not aesthetically pleasing and goes on to teach the reader some techniques for capturing the "wow" factor in their photos.
Barr provides unique and insightful information about the artistic side of photography that is often overlooked. He emphasizes our need to learn to "see" things differently in order to create stronger photographs. His extensive experience in this field is obvious as he analyzes his own photos to point out strengths and weaknesses, providing tips on composition and how to work a scene. Barr explains that artistic photography is not about "taking" photos, but about "making" them, and supplies excellent advice to help readers at all levels of experience improve their own work.
I found this book quite enlightening. Barr writes in a conversational tone that is both clear and easy to read, and at the same time he covers a vast amount of important information. I found the book motivational, and with the insights that I have gained from this work, I am eagerly looking forward to my next photo shoot.
I would recommend Taking Your Photography to the Next Level to anyone with an interest in photography.
Topics include:
• Creativity
• Dealing with disappointment
• Developing an "eye"
• Making stronger images
• What photographs well
• Where to go looking for the best photographic subjects
• How to approach subject material
• A great image is just around the corner
• Dealing with failure
• Mind games
• Becoming a self-aware photographer
• Framing, cropping, & manipulating prints to create mood and transmit your message
Product Details:
List Price: US $39.95 | CAN $43.95
Title: Take Your Photography to the Next Level: From Inspiration to Image
First Edition: December 2007
Publisher: Rocky Nook
Pages: 216
ISBN-10: 1933952210
ISBN-13: 978-1933952215
Copyright (c) 2008, Adrienne Turcotte, All Rights Reserved