5 comments about Photocraft: Cool Things to Do with the Pictures You Love.

1. What a wonderful addition to my burgeoning craft-book library! This book is visually engaging and can serve as a creative inspiration to novice crafters and seasoned ones alike. 'Photocraft' engages the imagination while providing practical instruction as to how to manipulate all types of images artisically. A great find!



2. Photocraft features fresh, inventive ways to display your photographs. I was inundated with photo storage boxes and was seeking a creative way to display cherished images when a friend gave me this book. Most of the projects are relatively simple and are accompanied with easy to follow instructions. I needed a quick fix wall treatment in my entranceway and borrowed an idea from page 100: using old CD cases, I created my own rotating photo gallery (FYI: I found that poster tabs keep the light weight plastic in place).
   
   I've found this book to be an invaluable resource for both displaying photos and making personalized gifts.



3. This book has some GREAT ideas for using those stored photographs! We've already gone through several boxes and made a really cool lampshade; a collage; and jewelry! The book has creative gift ideas, which will be cherished by the recipient. Fun projects for the whole family!



4. Many of the projects are pretty advanced, but there are some great ideas, and I always appreciate craft books that have sections on materials and step-by step instructions.



5. Great inspirational book. I have been taking pictures since I bought it. Haven't tried any of the projects in the book, but have came up with my own and now know so much more about things like photo paper, adhesives, etc. I do plan to try a project soon!

3 comments about Helen Levitt.

1. Always thought Helen Levitt's photography was excellent, so I ordered this book. Upon receiving it I found two pages to be bent back at the corners, badly crimped. So, I returned it asking that a second copy be sent along with the reason I was returning it.
   
   When the second copy arrived, it also had pages damaged & bent. Both had still been in the shrinkwrap, so it was something that apparently had happened during the production process of the book itself.
   
   After the second copy was also damaged, I just asked Amazon to credit me back a refund. It's a hassle packing the book up twice, printing out return labels on the computer twice, taking it down to the post office twice (gas is $3.18 a gallon). One might think if Amazon really cared about customer service they would have taken a look at the second copy before shipping it to me, knowing the first copy was damaged.
   
   I'll pick one up at a bookstore.
   
   Ron Evans / Charlottesville, Virginia



2. I ordered 5 copies of this book! It was such a pleasure to see all the new images that have never been published. I love Evans forward (brief but articulate), and to see the genius of Levitt through the years makes this my favorite book to date in 2008! I couldn't recommend it more!



3. I found this book nearly as good as Crossroads, which is now going for $200+. The binding and reproduction quality is excellent. The only difference with this is a lack of a tipped in image on the front. I purchased 7 of these books. One of them was defective, and this sometimes happens, but Amazon is very amenable to returns and I'm going to send it back for a replacement. Amazon pays the return shipment. I own over 6000 photography books and this is well-worth the investment!

5 comments about The Photographer’s Guide to Filters (Photographers Guide).

1. An Excellent Book about filters and the science of filters, I learn so much form that book. I do recommend this book for everyone who's interested in the science and the art of filters and choosing the right filter for the right moment.



2. I am not a prfessional photographer, I just do it for fun and I try to improve everytime I develop my films.
   
   I recommend this book. It has clear examples showing the different benefits of many types of filters. I would even recommend it if you are not into spending money in different filters. It will show you how far you can take your photography.



3. Thank you Mr. Frost for clearing the muddy waters on filter systems! I've researched the web on this topic and have found a lot of useful information, but this is the only guide (that I've found) that provides detailed specs on all the available systems in the marketplace, which filters are compatible with which holders, and what focal length limitations exist with each system (holders can cause vignetting with focal lengths wider than 20mm). Trust me ... it's confusing. Chapter 1 (Choosing a Filter System) alone is worth $20 - the 'low-tack' gum solution is brilliant! My only complaint is that it is a bit dated (2002). It would be nice to see an updated version that addresses how filters work with smaller digital sensors (1.3 and 1.6) that are common in the marketplace today. This book only references 35mm format full frame. Plus, there is an ommission of the compatibility of the Cokin Z holder (which I don't think was available in the market at print). These are pretty minor criticisms, however, as this book provides a wonderful summary on the subject. I would recommend this book to anyone who is thinking of buying a filter system.



4. The Photographer's Guide to Filters is the best book I've found on the subject. The examples are stunning and the text is extremely informative. Highly recommended.



5. I bought this book because I figured having some direction regarding filters would be a good investment. This book is great. The book starts with what might be a slightly wordy explanation about the difference between screw on and slide in filters, and the advantages of each, but if you are just getting into filters you might not even be aware of the differences. I really liked how the book was broken down into different filter types too. This made it easy to follow, and a really relaxed read. Even if you think you know about filters there are several seemingly obvious (once you read them) that you might not have realized that he points out. Despite the un-attractive cover (the worst picture anywhere in the book) the book is very straight forward and shows numerous examples of with/without a certain filter for a certain shot. For these examples he helps to break down the picture and show where the filter used made any differences (sometimes subtle). Anyways, long review short, if you own an SLR then you need to know about filters, and you need to buy this book.

5 comments about Take Your Best Shot: Tim Grey Tackles Your Digital Darkroom Questions.

1. I can't really add anything to Gordon Schultz's review except to say that I agree with it 100%. Tim Grey has written an excellent book in a very user-friendly format which is chock full of information on every aspect of digital photography. If you're into RAW conversions, Photoshop editing, and home printing then unless you're an experienced pro, you need this book. I simply can't recommend it highly enough.



2. Great Book. I am a subscriber to the regular TimGrey.com but found the book a wonderful source of review and reinforcement. It is hard to keep up with the ever-quick changes that occur in this ever changing digital world and I appreciate the sharing of up-to-the-minute information. Thanks Tim!



3. This book is presented in question and answer format.
   
   As an advanced hobbyist photographer, these were exactly the questions I've had. The answers were clear, with (when needed) step-by-step instructions on how to do the task.
   
   I have two recommendations: For photographers -- get the book and also subscribe to the author's newsletter (one question/answer each). For the author -- write a second volume, soon.



4. I'm the author of this book, so you might want to take this review with the proverbial grain of salt. However, I can tell you that of all the books I've written (over a dozen), this was by far the most enjoyable for me to write. My hope is that readers will likewise find it to be enjoyable and informative to read, and I'm delighted that the reviews presented so far here reflect that.
   
   I've long felt that the question-and-answer format was a powerful way to learn. That was part of the motivation for creating the free Digital Darkroom Questions email newsletter (www.timgrey.com/ddqp/) in a question-and-answer format (the other reason being that I was simply getting a lot of questions from photographers!).
   
   In this book I've tried to cover the topics that have been most common (or most troubling) for photographers over the years. I'm biased, but I like to think this book has successfully encapsulated the most common questions in an organized format with an entertaining (while informative) style. I include my biggest "pet peeves" (so you'll know you're not alone when you get frustrated, and also know what to watch out for), as well as "Let's Settle This Already" sidebars that provide definitive answers to topics that have been the most controversial. These two features are, I think, of huge value in this book.



5. This book is a collection of (presumably) common questions, and Tim Grey's answers. Most of this information can be found on the Web easily, but for someone who is just getting started it might be useful to have such a compendium. On the other hand, for anyone who already does know what the difference between JPEG and RAW images is etc, the answers in this book don't have enough depth (especially when talking about how digital cameras work), and are sometimes incomplete (e.g. there is no mention of watermarking in the response to a question about "securing" images). At the same time, some of the questions are over-specific (e.g. "What Do the Highlighted Menu Items In Photoshop CS3 Mean?"). Even if the format of the book doesn't allow for detailed answers, I'd at least expect pointers to further information (there isn't even a reference section).

5 comments about Preston Bailey's Design for Entertaining: Inspiration for Creating the Party of Your Dreams.

1. What a fabulous book for inspiration to all professional florist, Event and party planners every where. As a high end Event and Party planner in Seattle, WA we use Mr. Bailey's book for reference to customers who are looking to throw an "over the top" party or event.
   
   I recommend this to all flower lovers.
   
   Magnolia Village Florist
   Seattle, WA



2. 
   I bought this book so I can find ideas for my wedding decoration, it has great and beautiful pictures, but obviously it's impossible to try to imitate Preston Bailey's ideas. I do recommend this book. You can use it afterwards for a coffee table book.



3. The photos are beautiful, but I didn't purchase it for the photos.
   I purchased it to discover the use of mechanics to construct the beautiful florals. There is some text about materials used, but very little. Disappointing.



4. This book has wonderful decorating ideas for a wide range of party types. The floral arrangements are unique and elegant. This is a great gift idea for your favorite florist!



5. It is a beautiful book, filled with gorgeous photographs and texts on the different venues that Mr. Bailey designed. This would be a wonderful gift for a creative friend.
   
   Elizabeth Edwards

5 comments about Adobe Photoshop CS2 One-on-One (One-On-One).

1. Adobe Photoshop CS2 One-on-One (One-On-One) This is not a book for any digital photographer who wants to increase his or her understanding and proficiency in essential "finishing" techniques of digital images. It barely addresses or doesn't address at all the necessary skills of adjustment levels, working with curves, and so on. He recommends too using auto fixes and variations which ruin the integrity of a digital image, and concentrates instead on creating slick finished products. It reminds me in a way of a class I took that was supposed to educate a student in approaching an image with CS2, but instead dealt with all the whacky things you could do to a picture with distortion filters and so. You come away thinking you can torture an image any number of ways without effecting the integrity of the pixels. The parts of the DVD I was able to watch were sketchy and too brief. I would recommend instead anything by Scott Kelby, Bruce Fraser, and David Blatner.



2. I have had college classes in photoshop. I could say that I have forgotten more about photoshop than most people know. Unfortunatly this means I have forgotten almost all that I knew. I found myself a beginning student at a new version of photoshop. This is a good book to sit down and go through the exercises. Good combination of video lectures and workbook exercises. I have just finished chapter six out of twelve this morning. You can not work your way through this book without coming away with a solid base in photoshop. After making it half way through this book, I am able to do things that I had no clue were even possible.



3. I am a newby here. I ordered different books to learn CS2, and this book is amazing. I don't have anything original to add to all the excellent comments people already wrote, I just felt compelled to give it its five starts. The book is clear, well organized, easy to follow, and gives you a pretty good understanding of every single topic. It's not just do this and this, like a recipe. This was the book I was looking for!



4. I have used this book as a Photoshop text book for two years in a 3 month Multimedia Specialist Vocational Course I teach. Students come into my course at many skill levels, ranging from new with no experience to graphic professionals with over 25 years experience.
   
   I have often heard from students "If I had only known that before!" and then an explanation of how much time one of Deke's tips would have saved them on some past project.
   
   The introductory videos to each lesson are packed with useful information. The practical exercises are fun and inspiring as well as aimed at users from all skill levels. The explanations are clear, concise and well thought-out. Deke's humor helps to keep things from being overwhelming.
   
   I strongly recommend this book from an author who knows Photoshop inside out for anyone who wants to learn Photoshop. Introducing my students to this book is one of the best things I do for them.



5. I was very pleased with the information contained in this book which I bought used. It is in excellent condition, i.e., gently used and well maintained. CS 2 is a new program to me and I need all the help I can get.

5 comments about Day of the Dachshund.

1. This great book is full of fantastic photographs, along with captions that fit -- it'll crack you up!! Any doxie fan would love this little treasure. I highly recommend this book as a gift to dachshund owners & lovers.



2. Actually, this book, composed primarily of wonderful dachshund photos, would be enjoyed by dog lovers in general. It is a handsome format, small, easy to hold and contemplate. It would make a lovely gift for dachshund owners, and that's what I bought it for.



3. The most affectionate dog breed has been well portrayed with comical sense of captions with each picture.
   
   For all Dachshund lovers this is a must. It is not big nor thick.
   so, it is easy for anyone to go through in short time, which makes you wish for a bigger or thicker book with more photos. :)
   
   Over all, this book confirms WHY you love Dachshunds.



4. If you are a dachshund owner, then you know that every day with your dachshund is in their minds their day. The title of this book says it all. It portrays dachshunds doing their daily funny habits. Well worth the money!



5. This is a wonderful compilation of dachshund pictures that will delight anyone who is in love with the breed. One is sure to find pictures that will be among their favorites.

5 comments about Do It Yourself.

1. The idea of having models choose their own poses and snap their own photos is a good one but, for the most part, this book shows the value of a professional photographer.
   
   The models are beautiful and the lighting and technical aspects of the images are fine. But there are inherent difficulties of taking a good image of oneself, not the least of which is knowing exactly when the shutter will snap. Maybe it would take 1,000 attempts to find 50 or 60 happy accidents of spontaneity. Either this book drew from fewer photos, or happy accidents are rarer than I would wish.
   
   It is not hard to look at the pictures, and they are not in bad taste -- just not likely to become new classics. I bought the book, I looked it once, then put it up for sale.



2. This large hardcover collection of erotic photography is one of the best books of erotica to come along in quite a while. The premise is simple, allow models to photograph themselves in the nude. The result is a memorable collection of unique and borderline voyeuristic images that are just as artistic as they are erotic.
   The photographs have an amateur feel to them, you get the feeling you're looking thru the personal photo collections of each lovely young woman, and in a way... you are. The personalities of most of the women come shinning thru in their selected poses. For example, it was easy to see the naughty playfulness of a young blonde woman, who was laughing as she snapped a pantyless upskirt shot of herself. You could tell that she was thinking she might be going too far, but that people would freak when they saw the picture!
   
   Some shots are artistic, some playful and some all-out erotic. Some are in black and white, some in color. Some of the models look like top fashion models, some look like amateurs, but all of the content in the book is top-quality. Full page photos on heavy stock paper makes up the book and it's a fair price for such a large amount of content.
   This is my favorite erotic photography book since Roy Stuart, Vol. 4: The Fourth Body (Book & DVD) and I highly recommend it.



3. I bought this book on a whim. I liked the concept of the book and I saw some nice photos from it, like the one on the cover. The content however, dissapoints. The photo's just aren't very good. The overall atmosphere is that of 1990's amateur nude photography.
   
   Perhaps not much more can be expected of non-photographers. But I was hoping for a charming, low-fi low-tech DIY look that would make up in personality for what it lacks in professionality. In stead, it's aiming for a high-key 'glamour' look and failing miserably.
   
   I also thought the idea of having the camera and cable release in most of the photos would be charming, but in stead I found it distracting. Paradoxically, I feel a good photographer would have been less noticeably there than the cable release is - in other words, the photos would have felt more private if they had been shot by someone else.
   
   Interesting to browse through once or twice but not a book I could recommend.



4. This book is essentially a collection of photographs of women who staged and posed their own pictures in natural everyday settings. These photos are highly original and sensual in their way. They reveal a certain quality of the beauty that is within. People who post photos on websites looking for that perfect partner can perhaps take a few lessons from this highly original artistic book.



5. This book is fabulous! I love the idea of giving the women the camera and letting them play around with ideas of beautiful photography. Fun stuff.

4 comments about New York: 365 Days.

1. A thick, 744 page book presenting the flavor of the world's premier city. Though the title suggests a visual year it is more a selection of photos arranged round themes: sports, travel, markets, the weather, construction, entertainment, civic events, personalities etc. Each gets a few pages with some images going back to the nineteenth century though most are from the thirties onward.
   
   I thought the selection was quite impressive, there is something for every New Yorker here. Some of the names of the fifty-one photographers in the index will be familiar to readers of the Times. Neal Bonenzi, Sam Falk, Vincent Laforet and Ernie Sisto get the largest showing. Two of Laforet's are particularly stunning: his night time Manhattan skyline from July four 2005 with the sky alight with fireworks and the amazing shot from January thirteen, 2001 looking down on two workman repairing a colored light at the top of the radio mast on the Empire State (I was always curious about this photo because neither of these guys are wearing hard hats). An unfortunate omission, perhaps, is any work by Weegee. He brilliantly captured the lives of the working class over the years but his photos only appeared in the down-market tabloids.
   
   The landscape format of the book works perfectly, the photos (with some in color) are either one to a page or one to a spread, and all have comprehensive captions. This is a fascinating book, dip into it anytime to remind you of the rhythm of the city.
   
   *I wonder if the publishers will do similar versions using the photo libraries of other great metro papers like the San Francisco 'Chronicle', Chicago 'Tribune' or the Washington 'Post'?
   



2. 
   Nice book, not very expensive, mixing old and news photographs of subjects
   about New York.
   A good journalistic panorama.



3. This is just an amazing collection of fascinating photographs from the archives of the New York Times. Gay Talese offers a brief introduction, but the stars of the production are the incredible photographs drawn from the turn of the 20th century to the present, one for each day of the year--with some in color. There is no table of contents; it is best to just start thumbing at random. Common topics are: personalities; buildings; neighborhoods; music performances; subways; bridges; contruction; weather; immigrants; sports; and politicians. Each picture is captioned and has a short write-up, often a brief excerpt from the NYT story where it originally appeared. Some fotos I found especially moving: returning World War I troops marching past the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1919; early shots of the lower East Side; LBJ and John Glenn in a tickertape parade; JFK visiting the city; plus a 15 page collage of sunsets, morning with fog, and sunrises. The common theme is people living and interacting in the city. Beautifully printed by Abrams, there is an index to the pictures and photographers. I can't think of another book that so artfully conveys the essence of NYC as completely as this inexpensive volume.



4. I gave this book to my sister because her dream is to go to New York and she was extremely happy with it.
   
   The book contains beautiful pictures from many different years (the book includes many black-and-white photos) and many different places and gives a very good overview of how fantastic New York is.
   
   I've never been in New York, but once I'll go there, maybe together with my sister?

5 comments about Macro Photography Photo Workshop.

1. By concentrating on small images and texture representation a photographer's overall approach and finished results can appear more professional. MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO WORKSHOP is thus an outstanding title not just for working macro photographers seeking to improve their results, but for any looking to understand macro images in everyday surroundings, and use the latest camera devices to capture the best shots. From common macro problems and digital editing techniques to shooting insects, flowers and more, MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO WORKSHOP is especially recommended as a supplemental classroom text for any photographer moving beyond the beginner levels.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch



2. i now have 3 of these photo workshop books and they are excellent books and full of information. the photographs in the books have a statement next to them to tell you how they were shot. the information is current for the new digital camearas and it full of usefull information.



3. As a beginner in Macro Photography, I found this book useful. It was thorough starting at the beginning by describing what macro photography is and the various pieces of equipment needed. The author then moves into more technical information such as lighting and depth of field. In his photos, he fully describes which camera was used, which lens, f-stops, shutter speeds, ISO, and additional information. At the end of each chapter he gives an "assignment" and encourages you to post your photo on a particular web site.
   He goes beyond the most obvious macro subjects of flowers and insects. He covers everyday objects, beauty of textures, abstracts, and people.The book is filled with many photos to learn from.
   I like the fact that it was not written so technically that I could not understand it. It was easy reading.Highly recommended for the beginner who wants to learn about macro photographer.



4. I am a novice in macro photography, having been exposed only to medical/dental close-up photography in the past. The author has been kind enough to keep the text less technical and geared more to the novice to average photographer. The examples are annotated with the source and equipment used. He provides tips, cross-references with each new chapter, and has `assignments' that allows one to practice what was read. At the conclusion of the book he provides websites to allow you to see what others have to offer. I recommend this book for both the novice and the average photographer as an excellent resource.



5. This is a very helpful, informative book. I have not done much macro photography, and this book made it fun to try. I highly suggest that anyone who has a camera and a little time, read this book, and then get out and play.
   Gayle Gahn