5 comments about The Art of Handpainting Photographs (Amphoto crafts).

1. "The Art of Handpainting Photographs" provides detailed instructions for handcoloring black-and-white photographs with Marshall's Photo Oils, which generally impart somewhat muted colors. Colored pencils are often used in conjunction with the oils. Author Cheryl Machat Dorskind briefly mentions other media that can be used in handcoloring photographs, but she does not discuss them. Although there is a chapter on landscapes, Dorskind is primarily a portrait artist, so this book's emphasis is portraiture.
   
   Chapter 1, "Selecting a Good Photographic Print" makes suggestions in how to best photograph for handpainting, including choosing appropriate film and photographic paper. This is the book's weakest chapter. The advice could be confusing to beginning or intermediate photographers. For example, it recommends bracketing exposures, but does not explain that, unless you tell the lab, they will try to print them all the same. And there is not much point in bracketing old chemistry black-and-white film by just one EV anyway. It's better to vary the exposure in printing. The author doesn't mention chromogenic black-and-white film at all, which is less expensive, easier for amateurs to obtain, and would be fine if printed on a fiber-based paper. Dorskind doesn't recommend T-grain films or high speed films, but doesn't explain why. Her suggestion of infrared film is interesting, however, as its characteristic white foliage (when used with a dark red filter) is well-suited to handpainting. A handy chart lists texture, tone and contrast for recommended fiber-based and resin-coated papers. The option of toning prints prior to handcoloring is mentioned, but no instructions are provided. Oddly, I have never seen a book on handcoloring photographs mention digital prints. Most ink jet prints are unsuitable as the ink will run, but I am curious as to how permanent inks and dye-sublimation prints fare. No answer is forthcoming. The information about papers for conventional printing is very good, though.
   
   Chapter 2, "Materials and the Work Station", explains supplies you will need and what conditions provide the best working environment for coloring photographs. Chapter 3 is dedicated to "Basic Color Theory". There are explanations of the color wheel, complementary colors, hue, value, intensity, color temperature and advice on how best to choose the most appropriate color to convey your intentions.
   
   Chapter 4 discusses the five steps involved in "Preparing Your Photograph for Color Application": Spotting the photograph (retouching spots and scratches), masking the border, making wood/cotton skewers, arranging your color palette, and priming your photograph with Marshall's P.M. Solution.
   
   Chapter 5 provides a step-by-step explanation of "The Basic Painting Process". The example the author uses is a portrait. She explains how to mix colors, paint the photo, and use pencils on top of oil paints. These instructions are very good and would be invaluable if you are handcoloring a portrait, as there are specific suggestions for how to achieve the correct skin tone. Chapter 6, "More About Portraiture", provides further valuable advice to portraitists by explaining how to best paint red, blond, brown and gray hair. There is also some discussion of painting portrait backgrounds for various effects.
   
   Chapter 7, "Focusing on the Environment" is about handpainting landscapes. The author discusses color, tone, and composition in rural and urban landscapes, but there are no detailed instructions. Chapter 8, "Presenting Your Artwork" gives advice for how to store, mat, and frame your painted photographs. Chapter 9, "Special Assignments" mentions some specialized uses of handpainting, such as vintage photographs. There is a list of Resources in the back of the book.



2. I have researched and bought everything I can find on this subject and this book is by far the most helpful that I have found. It is easy reading. The photographs are inspiring. Even people who aren't interested in the technique love looking at the beauty of this book. I am a professional hand colorist and I use this book almost every day as a reference tool and also as inspiration. Anyone who wants to learn this technique should own their own copy of this book.



3. This wildly popular and highly comprehensive treatise on Handpainted Photography has become the bible for its genre. (A big seller in Michigan art stores) I noticed that competing publishers (see the phony review by Photobuff) have tried everything to stop this giant, but quality always succeeds. I learned the art of handpainting from Cheryl Dorskind. Great work! Can't wait for your next book.



4. While the subjects of the photographs in this book may be a little too saccharin for everyone, the author makes up for this in content. There is much useful information on techniques, supplies, and use of color. Of the three books I have read on the subject, this is the one I would recommend -- regardless of whether the subject matter appeals to you or not. The information provided can readily be transferred to the subject matter of your choice. If you can only buy one book, buy this one!



5. Highly sophisticated images grace the pages of this unique guide to an otherwise complicated craft. Professor Dorskind's compassion for the beginner and respect for the expert shine in this brilliant work. In addition to step by step instruction, she generously shares her personal photopainting struggles. Her college teaching experience and fine arts background help define "The Art of Handpainting Photography" as the outstanding work (and probably the best) in the field.

   A must buy for the true "photo buff."

4 comments about Susan Seddon Boulet: The Goddess Paintings.

1. This is a wonderful book of Susan Seddon Boulet about Goddess portraits and her legends . Clearly explained ,and full of paintings . Susan Seddon Boulet is a great artist and each of her painting is a masterpiece . Delightul !



2. This is a wonderful book that is not only visual but informative. I love reading about the origins of Goddess myths. Well written and the reproductions of Susan Seddon Boulet's artwork is incredible. I only wish she was still alive!



3. Susan Boulet's paintings capture the beauty & sprit of over 40 goddesses. Many images are mystical, magical and mysterious, while others have an almost haunting quality. I love the soft earthy colors she uses.

   Each painting is in full color on glossy stock & contained to a single page. In a few cases several portraits are done of a single goddess. Alongside, on a separate page, sidebars tell what each goddess represents & her history.

   Some of my favorites include the Bird Goddess & Bast, an Egyptian goddess with a female face & a cat's body. I also enjoyed the brief history of mythology & information on the artist herself contained in the forward.

   I liked this book so much I bought an extra copy so I could cut out the artwork & use it to decorate my home. The setup is great for this, in most cases pictures are not back to back on the same page.




4. This beautiful collection of paintings by Susan Seddon Boulet consists of 44 depictions of different goddesses from mythology on the right, along with a description of the goddess on left. The goddesses are from all types of mythology, anywhere from Egyptian to medieval to Celtic, but they center around Greek and Roman goddesses. The medium is a combination of pastels, pencil, and ink. Susan Seddon Boulet's use of transparency and color is especially impressive. The paintings are very wispy and dream-like. If you are interested in mythology you will love this book. If you are unfamilliar with mythology, this is a great way to learn.

2 comments about Paint Along with Jerry Yarnell Volume Two - Painting Inspirations (Paint Along With Jerry Yarnell, 2).

1. How disappointing. According to Jerry, painting is a "god given" gift. He would not be able to paint without god's help. If god is all-powerful then if I were gifted from god to paint I wouldn't need this book. If I'm not gifted by god to paint then why bother? And again I wouldn't need this book.
   
   I think I'll buy a book by a mere mortal so I can learn how to paint. : )



2. This book is by far the best art book I've owned as far as the very detailed step by step instructions it gives for each painting right down to the colours to mix and the brushes to use. Highly recommended.

5 comments about Visions.

1. The books are awesome for sure BUT I think Amazon should warn buyers that this "book" Visions is actually a hard case containing the books Transfigurations and Sacred Mirrors so that people don't buy both or all of them (as was the case here).
   (In fact, on the Amazon page it is recommended to buy Visions and Transfigurations....)



2. Amazon is great! Got the books fast and well-packaged. These books are amazing, and Amazon is amazing for getting them to me so fast, right before Christmas, and we are all very happy with the transaction. Thanks, Amazon!



3. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, Grey's paintings are intellectually provocative, as they show human bodies as energy forms interacting with other energy forms.



4. This is an amazing collection. If you don't mind spending the money this is the best option for the complete Alex Grey experience. It comes with both of his books in beautiful hardcover format. They aren't just all of his pictures either. There are many, many side articles and writings with pictures describing many fascinating things about his life and works and other teachings. Plus, you get the 6 glossy drawings you can frame on your wall. The book contains close-ups of many of the paintings so you can see the incredible detail put into them. My only complaint is that the little lock on the outside of the whole hardcover casing can be hard to lock because of the books on the inside pushing out, but this is a minor detail. I highly recommend this for anyone craving the complete Alex Grey experience in hardcover.



5. These book and prints give you a very complete look at the amazing work of Alex Grey. He teaches through his paintings. You can't go wrong with this purchase!

No comments about The Watercolorist’s Answer Book.

2 comments about Book of Joy.

1. This is a precious little book with beautiful photos of the paintings of Thomas Kincade and wonderful inspirational words.
   
   Perfect to unwind after a hectic day and a wonderful gift.



2. This is a great gift. I have given Thomas Kinkade books numerous times as gifts. The pictures are beautiful and the inspirational words are wonderful as well. I think anyone who purchases this book will enjoy it.

3 comments about Marine Painter's Guide.

1. Tried this book on a whim to assist with painting marine scenes to get the details on boats correct. This book is an outstanding timeless reference. Probably one of the best detail books on the subject.
   
   I wanted to know more about Jack Coggins and found a web site on his paintings and writings maintained by a relative. Coggins is a modern master and a vast body of his paintings are available for viewing on this site.
   
   I hope this book never goes out of print. If you are looking to properly render the ocean and boats this book is for you.



2. Experienced maritime artist and teacher Jack Coggins presents Marine Painter's Guide, a self-teaching tool written especially for beginning to intermediate painters. Chapters cover such common maritime painting subjects as hulls, masts and rigging, sails, water, skies, freighters and tugs, docks, gulls, and people, as well as giving a wealth of technical do's and don'ts. Painters who have difficulty capturing the subtle nuances of perspective, composition, and water reflections will find Marine Painter's Guide particularly helpful. 127 black-and-white illustrations, many of which show sketches of complex ship riggings in careful detail, and 11 illustrations in full color round out this "must- have" how-to guide for creating realistic and emotionally moving works of maritime art.



3. An excellent book for the begginer and most helpful for an intermediate painter. It provides very practical guidance on perspective and composition. The author is a practiced professional artist with the down to earth feel of a person who has thought through how to make his advice relevant. He does not waste words or time explaining overly basic matters but keeps to a firm structure with plenty of examples and illustration. The book can be used as a course for learning marine painting.

5 comments about Tom Lynch’s Watercolor Secrets.

1. in examples of work done from beginning to end. It is filled with the artist's beautiful art work and that Mr. Lynch is a very accomplished painter is definitely not in dispute. However, I found the book tedious to read. Each picture is accompanied with an explanation why the picture had achieved oomph regarding design. Most of the paintings are of urban settings, i.e. of Paris, golf clubs, etc. and I am more of a nature and flower painter. I found the book to be not a complete waste of my money, but there are definitely books I like much better.



2. "Tom Lynch's Watercolor Secrets" is a 5-star watercolor technique book for visual learners. Alas, I am not a visual learner, and so much of the impact was lost. If you are, I strongly recommend you get this book.
   
   All lessons are displayed mainly in comparison pictures: the same scene done two ways, once without the recommended technique, and once with the recommended technique. This is the "salvage paintings" stuff that other reviewers mention. These painting comparisons are scattered throughout the book and cover all topics. The comparison pictures are very effective pictoral representations of the technique lessons described herein.
   
   For myself, I don't like landscapes and I wasn't particularly impressed by the author's painting style. Still, this book has a lot of useful advice on painting technique. You might also consider Painting What You Want to See (Practical Art Books), which is the best watercolor technique book I've found.



3. When you get into reading this book to learn his "secrets," some of the information is really thin. It has some really great parts that give insight, like his section on color. It opened my eyes to new ways of painting -- outside of the box! With many of the pictures, a few step by step "in progress" points would have been super helpful -- that's where it just misses. If you have a lot of skill, you may be able to read "the picture" and see things from other chapters and get the deeper concept. I, being new, can NOT even begin to do that yet, so it is a great read and gives good insight, but it is a book to read after reading some of the conceptual walk-you-through-it books that exist. So, not allllll of his secrets really are revealed. :-)



4. A great concept with wonderful illustrations by Tom Lynch but lacking descriptions of the techniques and pigment use employed. Like the other reviewer I found the secrets still secrets and not revealing enough information. This publishers books seem to follow this pattern as with Alvaro Castagnet book Watercolor Painting with Passion (beautiful and inspiring illustrations by Castagnet but lacking decent text of the techniques and use of pigments used).

   However, aside from the lacking technical information, Lynch's work is wonderful and inspiring.




5. THIS BOOK NEEDS MORE DETAIL AND TECHNIQUE IN MUCH BETTER FORM. I APPRECIATE GOOD ART BOOKS AND THIS ONE COULD BE A LOT BETTER..

4 comments about Famous Painted Cats.

1. Cats with make-up! Such serious little pussen faces as they contemplate what we've done to them! A darling book & wonderful gift to make anyone smile, even people who don't like cats!!!



2. what a treat... surprising, amazing, great gift... great to get people talking and shareing.. absolutely delightful



3. I love cats, I love painted cats and I love the books by Burton Silver & Heather Busch.
   This is a collection of postcards which I wrote to my friends. They all loved them as well.



4. What a disappointment. When my "book" came I discovered it was actually a bunch of postcards bound together. It might make a good gift for a cat lover, but it was disappointing to me that it wasn't what I was expecting. Nowhere did I find any mention of postcards.

No comments about Terry Harrison's Sea & Sky in Watercolour.