5 comments about Silversmithing (Jewelry Crafts).

1. There is little that can be added to what the other reviewers have already said in terms of the quality of the information and material in this very good book. The high point for me is the large amount of black and white photos, all of perfect lighting and quality, that accompany the text. If, like me, you are a novice but are learning the hard way without someone to personally guide you then these will be a god send compared with the other high quality books out there that lack them.
   As to the book itself the authors have broken it into six main sections:
   1. Introduction to Silversmithing
   2. Basic Treatments
   3. Basic Tools and their uses
   4. General Procedures
   5. Special Procedures
   6. Projects
   From my own point of view the Projects section is the best because we get to see these very able men firstly "Sink a Bowl" then they "Sink a Plate and Tray". Next they "Raise a Bowl without crimping" and then one with crimping. They then raise a "Creamer with Self-Spout". "Construct a Box", "Forge some Flatware", "Forge a Punchbowl Ladle" and finish with "Stretching a Gravy Boat". The accompanying photos show the tools for each item and we get almost a complete set of photos showing the stages from start to finish.
   The items they manufacture have little decoration which is not required due to their design. So whilst there is a section on Chasing and Repoussé work it is not as extensive as in some of the other books out there. However it gives the basics to start from. If someone is looking for a more exhaustive treatment of that subject then they would be better to consult "Metal Techniques for Craftsmen" by Oppi Untracht. Anyway that is really a side issue and does not detract from what is a brilliantly clear exposition of a skill and art form which is disappearing in the age of mass production. Indeed they state their desire in the preface to the book to pass on to an interested new generation that which is fast being forgotten. Luckily for us they have helped us by doing such an outstanding job.
   Finegold and Seitz round the book out with some conversion charts and add some charts relating to gauges, weights and tempering temperatures.
   I highly recommend as others have that you do not go without a copy.



2. Good book, good photos and explanations. Nothing takes the place of a good teacher but this is worth the read.



3. The 3 stars represent disappointment on applicabiity, not the quality of the book. I did find some useful instruction which will apply to my size scale, like bending flat strips, raising, tensioning and a few other things, but if you are looking for something on the wear scale, this ain't it unless you want to do really tiny teapots and bowls.



4. Some great information in here... Not a lot about jewelry, however. Great for learning use of tools, polishing, etc. More geared towards large items like silver bowls and utensils. All black and white, maybe not as appealing as full color photos. Nice reference book.



5. you dont find these books any more. Old traditional silversmithing is in extinction and moreso are books being written on this subject in a fully descriptive manner. This silversmithing compendium rigorously explains each process involved from botttom to top taking full notice of every detail and possible situation. This means that you dont need to take things for granted or fill blanks by using your imagination or common sense, since all processes are outlined extensively. This is a technical book in the most full extention of its meaning. For any experienced silversmith it will bring to light concepts and facts that are not always fully understood nowadays, such as the crystaline behaviour of metals being raised or formed, the extense variety of stakes and the possible uses for them, etc. Even thogh some of the traditional processes are too time consuming or obsolete given the technology involved in metalsmithing nowadays, the information contained in this fabulously written book is of essential importance for any silversmith or aspiring metalsmith.

5 comments about Truth Needs No Ally: Inside Photojournalism.

1. There are many must-read about photojouanlism. Among these, this should be the first you buy. It leads you to the professional field. It tells you how you can get into the business and what you should know. I cannot find something compete.



2. Howard Chapnicks book on Photojournalism should be a standard text book on any PJ course... ooops it already is. And rightly so. The book is an absolute mine of information. This man was a genius and deserves much wider recognition.



3. this book it reads like a text book. It is very informative.



4. I have honestly say that I expected more from Mr. Chapnick. While some chapters ARE informative, others - like how to present yourself at an interview - are routine and almost obvious. Any so-called professional should NEVER show up looking like a bum. Or, (if I recall correctly) to use Mr. Chapnick's example, 'Animal' from the old Lou Grant program. You better have the rep of an Avedon or an Adams, and even THEN, you might not get the job. While I did see some pages on amazon, to judge from the title, I feel the title is a bit misleading. While Mr. Chapnick DOES cover some points of 1st Amendment, ethical and legal issues, I was expecting the bulk of the book to deal with these issues from a journalistic/freedom of the press point of view - both in America AND abroad. While he DOES touch on this when discussing shooters killed in the line of duty, I was expeceting more. For example: How did BLACK STAR photographers (or any other photog he knew about) deal with the Chinese Army and censorship during Tiannamen Square? What about shooters in previous years working in Central and South America (ie: Susan Meiselas)? As a counterpoint, the story about Don McCullin is interesting. At what point do you HAVE to stop looking at man's inhumanity to man and almost force yourself to walk away from being a war photographer? Mr. Chapnick discusses this. All this said, Mr. Chapnick never, EVER denigrates a shooter! From Adams to Nachtwey and every one known and unknown in between, Mr. Chapnick writes about every one with respect and the kind of thoughtful patience he showed me when I was in his office one day more than 20 years ago surrounded by photographs by James Nachtwey. For me, I learned about photojournalism by going out and doing it. Books are nice, but experience is your best teacher.



5. "Truth Needs No Ally: Inside Photojournalism," Howard Chapnick, Univ. Missouri Press, Columbia, 1994, ISBN: 0-8262-0955-6, PC 370 pgs., (Table contents 2 pgs, 48 pgs photos, Biblio 12 pgs. Index 8 Pgs.) 6 1/8" x 9 1/4"
   
   Author Chapnick, 50-yrs experience in freelance PJ, photo-agency presidency, & as monthly columnist, amassed salient sagacity that sanctions him to write, rigorously, of the many faces of photojournalism (PJ). He illustrates 4 broad miens of PJ - its foundations, basic components, career evolutions, & creative and ethical issues in 24 chapters of succinctly written prose. His style & clarity of delivery reveals he is a gifted writer.
   
   He interprets the essence of eyewittness PJ, responsibilities, of "concerned" photographers, & PJ essays using examples of renowned PJs, & of how one enters the field via portfolio, dress code, gender, education, specialization, minority ranks & agencies. He summarizes fundamental assets of 29 successful PJ photographers.
   
   In describing the evolution of PJ field, he notes importance of ideas, aesthetics, personal projects, writings, photo book projects, workshops, grants awards, etc. Importantly, he devotes coverage of ethical concerns including invasion of privacy, manipulations, setups, marital break-ups, demands of wartime PJ & re-affirming news photographs as sacrosanct.
   
   Throughout the book are short accounts of PJ greats as Margaret Bourke-White, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Capa, Newman, Karsch, Lange, W.E. Smith, Leibovitz, Arthur Fellig (Weegee), & 2-time NPPA awarded Lisa Larsen of LIFE whom I met on photoshoot of Paul Robeson. He quotes the 1990 AP statement: The content of a photograph will NEVER be changed or manipulated in any way," but then details some deviations & manipulations by mags as LIFE, Nat. Geographic (pyramids), TV Guide (Oprah Winfrey's head on Ann-Margaret's torso) etc., & notes damages are done to alter public's perception of truth.

5 comments about Work: The World in Photographs.

1. This is an awesome book with hardcovers, and glossy photos. Great for the coffee table. It illustrates different jobs people do around the world. The only disappointment was that some of the photos were taken over 50 yrs ago. I would have liked to see more up-to-date jobs that people are doing around the world.



2. Cultural writer Ferdinand Protzman explores some of the world's finest images of men, women and children at work, packing in almost two hundred images spanning some 150 years from the beginnings of photography to modern times. Eighty top photographers from around the world are featured - and some aren't even affiliated with National Geographic, either - making for a collection celebrating all kinds of work situations from farming and bullfighting to begging and snake charming and beyond. A powerful tribute to the world of work makes for an exceptional celebration.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch



3. I was disappointed by this book; many of the photographs do not even focus on work, and the rest are generally just sort of mediocre. Normally I would think of higher standards for a National Geographic book.



4. Sometimes with Geographic, the editorial staff choses images and as the reader im like 'What is going on here?'
   There are very strong images in this book. I know some of the photographers as well, but some images ghave no relation to the theme of 'work' here. Geographic includes images that stimulate the viewer to think and that process is walking a thin line sometimes because some images need to be apparent and show the theme--in this case 'WORK' and they simply do not, in my opinion. I was disappointed. Redo this book and hire a different photo editor.



5. Another of the National Geographic mini books. This one would have been much better with a larger format. Similar to other National Geographic books dedicated to photography, such as "Behind the Lens", "The Milestones". People at work around the world. Interesting in showing people doing things we don't usually see in our Western culture.

3 comments about Meerkat Manor: Flower of the Kalahari.

1. Being a fan of Meerkat Manor, I am really appreciating the information and great photos in this book. For anyone who enjoys the TV show or likes the study of animal societies, this book is for you.



2. Gives details of the Meerkat project that are sometimes only touched briefly in the Animal Planet TV series. There is heavy emphasis on reproductive strategies such as male roving and the frequent practice of infanticide of sibling's pups by pregnant females. Definitely for the reader who wants a deeper understanding of the sociobiology of another mammalian species not for someone who expects a gushing anthropomorphic indulgence. For that, view the movie!



3. The book is full of beautiful photography and offers insight and additional detail to events that were softly touched on by the Animal Planet series of the same name - I find that the chart of all of Flower's pups in the back of the book to be particularly helpful.
   
   Overall, it is well-written and easy to read - anyone who is interested in animals, Meerkat Manor, or Meerkats in general will enjoy this book.

5 comments about Final Cut Pro 5 Hands-On Training.

1. Clear, precise and comprehensive. I found the exercises and tutorials well-conceived and appropriately entertaining. This text and DVD companion (tutorials) made learning a software, especially one as technically complex as FCP, a wonderful experience.
   
   I was editing with FCP in under a week with the help of this book!



2. Summary: A fine companion for the beginner or intermediate Final Cut Pro 5 user.
   
   The Book:
   Final Cut Pro (FCP) is a complex swiss army knife of an edit program and can be very intimidating to a beginner. There seems to be way too many layers, windows and other sharp objects on which to cut yourself. But once you appreciate its potential, you will put imovie in your old cigar box of treasures and only bring it out to share with the grandkids.
   
   This book guides you through the maze with agility and style. The author, Larry Jordan, is an Apple Certified Trainer who specializes in FCP and DVD Studio Pro. He is a veteran producer, director, and editor of corporate and network programs. He prides himself as a teacher and it shows in the more than 70 step-by-step Final Cut tutorials and fourteen quicktime movies. He has refined his teaching in his workshops and takes pride in presenting the information in a friendly, organized manner. Larry seems to be one of those tireless types. I'll leave it at that.
   
   The book is part of a H.O.T. (Hands On Training) series presented by publisher lynda.com/books. The founder, Lynda Weinman, a web graphics and design veteran, wrote the very first industry book on web design, Designing Web Graphics, way back in 1995.
   
   "The best tip in the book is that FCP gives you lots of different ways to accomplish the same task... just learn the ones that make you productive so you can forget about how the tool works and concentrate on telling your stories."
   Larry Jordan
   
   The book's chapters walk you through the entire process, from organizing and editing to outputting your project. The title page of each chapter shows a table of exercises and a summary of what you'll learn. You follow along with each exercise with the FCP project files and media located on the companion DVD-ROM. Each chapter closes with a list of helpful keyboard shortcuts and a summary of what was covered.
   
   Throughout the book are shaded boxes and pointers identifying features that are new to FCP 5, power tips, warnings, etc. The graphic design, layout, paper texture, etc., are all very pleasing and evoke the attention to detail found in every aspect of the book.
   
   Also on the companion DVD are the fourteen movies of Larry talking us through various aspects FCP, including capturing media, filters and multi-clip editing. Each one is about fifteen minutes and all are helpful in grasping some of the more complex features of FCP. One of the movies I especially liked was Larry's demonstration of slip/slide and ripple/roll edit features. His description helps differentiate the tools and describes when to use each.
   
   Even though there are brief exercises on bringing files into Soundtrack Pro and LiveType, the 478 page book deals only with FCP not the other applications found in Final Cut Suite.
   
   This book is for beginner and intermediate users of FCP. It provides a solid foundation and fills in a lot of holes if you're self-taught. It is written as if you are attending one of Larry's classes, very conversational and punctuated with his opinions and personal preferences. If you like his style, you'll like the book.
   
   I highly recommend Final Cut Pro 5 Hands-On Training to anyone wanting to learn Final Cut Pro.
   
   PRO: Best book I've seen for beginning FCP training. A treasure.
   
   CON: Who has time to go through it all, plus the movies. Just have to pace yourself.
   NOTE: This is written my Jim Jewell and I'm posting it



3. I used to think the Apple training books were the best, but the HOT (Hands On Training) books, especially those authored by Larry Jordan, are even better. Mr. Jordan explains everything with such ease that it put other authors to shame. And the graphic design and layout of the book, coupled with the use of color in just the right places and a very legible typeface, makes reading these books a joy. Yeah, that's right...a joy to read a 'how-to' book. Who would have thought?
   
   I'd give this 6 stars if I could, just to send a signal to other 'how-to' authors and publishers that this is HOW IT'S DONE.



4. This book is well organized and easy for folks new to FCP. It has the basics and some advanced features. I had to learn FCP quickly as I was responsible for making my son's varsity basketball highlights video. The book covered file organization, how to insert video and stills into the timeline, add audio, make special scenes of B&W to color, slow motion, transitions, credits, and export the movie. The video was a hit. It was very gratifying to see the kids and parents reaction.



5. I found this book to be really helpful when I started using FCP. Everything was written in a manner that was easy to understand, it also contains everything you can do with the program. The instructions include editing, tools usage, transitions, capturing, etc...The book is thorough and the author isn't boring, which is great since there's a lot to remember!

3 comments about Adobe Photoshop Elements 6.0 On Demand.

1. A well laid out book. Nice photos, orderly info and directions. Paper and binding good quality, so the book lays open conveniently--no fighting to keep pages open while you use it as a reference! Covers all (or at least most) bases well, with clearly-stated directions.



2. If your are serious about PHOTOSHOP 6.0 this is the book to have at your side when editing photo's. The best I ever bought and I bought several 6.0 books.



3. I love Photoshop Elements 6.0 so much so I enjoy this book anyway. It is very simple and clear step by step.

4 comments about Lighting and Posing Techniques for Photographing Women (Pro Photo Workshop).

1. There are a lot of examples of lighting methods and styles to help you find the right light for the photographic look you wish to achieve.



2. Photographers who want to hone in on the lighting and poses that flatter women will love Lighting and Posing Techniques for Photographing Woman, covering a wide range of images from the traditional bridal image and business portraits to fashion shots, maternity images, and more. Posing techniques are presented to make women look their best, along with tips on using both studio and natural lighting, and different poses for business versus personal portraits. Approaches of a number of different pros outline different methods of achieving success.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch



3. I expected more information, specifically on modeling, composition, and selecting locations for outdoor portraiture based on the goal one is trying to achieve.
   
   Also, would have been handy if it included (with pictures) different techniques to overcome physical shortcomings. Unfortunately, not everyone looks beautiful in a two-piece bikini. With a little small talk I try to attain subject's insecurities, I then photograph them in ways were I enhance their best features and reduce focus on the areas of insecurity. It would have been nice to review the techniques of others, compare, experiment, and incorporate some.
   
   Limited by having 128 pages and 15 photographers profiled. Next time dedicate 150 pages with the input of 5 top photographers.



4. Norman Phillips is one of professional photographry's legendary portrait artists. This book is richly illustrated with not only his exceptional images but those of other industry legends like Monte Zucker and Michael Ayers.
   
   The lighting diagrams make it easy to replicate the wonderful pictures in the book. This is a helpful guide for both the beginner and seasoned pro.

5 comments about Adobe Photoshop CS2 for Photographers: A Professional Image Editor's Guide to the Creative Use of Photoshop for the Macintosh and PC.

1. This book is better than an owners manual for cs2, taking you through step by step instructions, if you already know something just skip that section, if you don't then it works, and it's easy to understand. The pages are color coded, great index and it has lots of picture examples.



2. Great onfo, just starting out on Mac...so anything seems great to me. I am a photographer and like the way the chapters are done...informative!



3. I bought this book on Amazon a few weeks ago. Normally I have a difficult time staying interested in a how-to book. The Kelby books keep me interested with wit and charm (and they know the subjects they write about well) but Martin Evening has a way off keeping my interest with a minimum of humor and anecdotes. The book is laid out so well. Every subject seems to be in it's proper place to allow the continuity of the book to progress in a logical manner that will help a novice photoshop user to learn CS2. Don't worry about having to go ahead in the book to figure out something they assume you should already know. I surmise that Mr. Evening is an Englishman because of some of the spellings and terminology, such as colour vs color. But he avoids the use of any terminology that Americans will have difficulty deciphering. The CD presents some of the topics in the book in video plus it provides some sample files to work with. Of all of the Photoshop CS2 books I bought I would reccomend this one over any other. The author has worked hard to make this one a real winner.



4. I have owned this book for one year and have been intimidated by the many favorable reviews this author has received. However, after looking up a topic in this book and, once again, having minimal clarity shed on the subject, I've decided to tell it like it is. It reads like an encyclopedia. I have 2 advanced degrees and learned chess, photography, and photoshop from books. But this book is user unfriendly and if I do not tell that to others, then they took will waste their money. If you do not believe me, then leaf through the book at one of the local book stores and decide for yourself. At least I've warned you. Stick with Scott Kelby, Rob Sheppard, Ellen Anon and Tim Grey.



5. If anybody is serious about editing pictures in Adobe Photoshop CS2 it is the best book on the market. Following the steps in the book you can achieve astonishing effects. Besides, this book is not so borring as Adobe Photoshop Classroom in a Book.

2 comments about Enclosure.

1. Andy Goldsworthy's work is as good as a human being can get to the Northern Lights.



2. You will not look at rocks, sticks, ice, leaves or water the same way after you read this (or any) of his books. It's mezmerizing to see the way these common objects we would walk right by turn into sublime art. Also worth checking out the DVD "Rivers and Tides". Just wonderful, and the polar opposite of the slick, mass produced art out there today.

1 comments about Digital Moviemaking (Wadsworth Series in Broadcast and Production).

1. This text is a must for any beginning film student because it does a real good job about detailing film. However, it simplifies the term so it isn't so mind boggling to grasp. And the pictures and diagrams and examples really help you understand th production side of filming and what Videographers, Directors, Actors, Editors, Production Designers, do in filmmaking. A great read for anyone who wants to make television programs and or films.