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 Customer Reviews
Easy read, 22 Nov 2008
great value for money at the price that I picked it up for. Not sure about the humour but if you can see past this then well worth a read. If like me you're trying to a bit more than just a point and click shooter then this will give you some good, and easily accessible, tips.
Best photography book ever, 14 Nov 2008
This is the best photography book I have ever purchased.
Self contained pages telling you how to get the shot.
No nonsense, no complications, no need to understand intricate instructions.
A word of caution. It has cost me a fortune! Because all of Scott's suggestions about how to get better images are actually very sensible but once you start buying better hardware - tripod, mount, lenses, printers, software, filters, flashes....you have spent a lot of extra money.
However, it is all great advice and it pays off.
I have many more really good shots on my computer after reading Scott's book/s (actually you will eventually buy the second book so you might as well get it straight away)
I have recommended this book to everybody I know who is interested on photography from beginner to interested amateur. Most have purchased and everybody is very pleased with the advice.
It makes ordinary people into much better photographers.
Phil Gordon
Newcastle upon Tyne
Fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
I have just bought this book and only really to get my free postage on my order - but what a great book! I only have a passing inerest in photography but often wondered how people got shots like they do. This book is presented in an easy to understand format and don't take any notice about the negative remarks about humour - it's there for a reason, to fix the ideas in your memory. I'm going to order the second volume as well.
A Groan A Minute, 30 Sep 2008
However useful this book may be the so-called humour is so thoroughly irritating that I ended up hurling across the room into the waste basket!
Highly recommended, 16 Sep 2008
Purchased this and the follow-up volume 2 and I have to say, I've read many books on the subject and all follow a similar path. These two books however are amazing. I have learned so much just reading volume one, that I can highly recommend these two books to anyone, who is wanting to improve their technique and produce not just good photo's but Great photo's. Scott has a very unique style which is easy to follow and along with his quirky humour (which I find actually helps get the message across) has produced two of the most amazing guides to the world of digital photography, I have had the pleasure of reading.
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Customer Reviews
Easy read, 22 Nov 2008
great value for money at the price that I picked it up for. Not sure about the humour but if you can see past this then well worth a read. If like me you're trying to a bit more than just a point and click shooter then this will give you some good, and easily accessible, tips.
Best photography book ever, 14 Nov 2008
This is the best photography book I have ever purchased.
Self contained pages telling you how to get the shot.
No nonsense, no complications, no need to understand intricate instructions.
A word of caution. It has cost me a fortune! Because all of Scott's suggestions about how to get better images are actually very sensible but once you start buying better hardware - tripod, mount, lenses, printers, software, filters, flashes....you have spent a lot of extra money.
However, it is all great advice and it pays off.
I have many more really good shots on my computer after reading Scott's book/s (actually you will eventually buy the second book so you might as well get it straight away)
I have recommended this book to everybody I know who is interested on photography from beginner to interested amateur. Most have purchased and everybody is very pleased with the advice.
It makes ordinary people into much better photographers.
Phil Gordon
Newcastle upon Tyne
Fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
I have just bought this book and only really to get my free postage on my order - but what a great book! I only have a passing inerest in photography but often wondered how people got shots like they do. This book is presented in an easy to understand format and don't take any notice about the negative remarks about humour - it's there for a reason, to fix the ideas in your memory. I'm going to order the second volume as well.
A Groan A Minute, 30 Sep 2008
However useful this book may be the so-called humour is so thoroughly irritating that I ended up hurling across the room into the waste basket!
Highly recommended, 16 Sep 2008
Purchased this and the follow-up volume 2 and I have to say, I've read many books on the subject and all follow a similar path. These two books however are amazing. I have learned so much just reading volume one, that I can highly recommend these two books to anyone, who is wanting to improve their technique and produce not just good photo's but Great photo's. Scott has a very unique style which is easy to follow and along with his quirky humour (which I find actually helps get the message across) has produced two of the most amazing guides to the world of digital photography, I have had the pleasure of reading.
Great Book Even For Pro's, 05 Oct 2008
I've been a wedding photographer for 25 years. I thought this was going to be another "how to take photos book". I've liked other Scott Kelby books so whilst in a bookstore picked it up just for a quick glance, but was suprised to see how much detail he went into. Each page being a new subject, it gave a detailed taster of each subject without all the waffle many books have, and then gave links to websites where you could read more or get equipement that is hard to find. To me it was worth it just for those hard to find links.
Should have stopped at volume 1, 04 Oct 2008
I like Scott Kelby, I really do.
OK he's from the other side of the Atlantic and totally over the top - but he is totally infectious in his love of photography and, in particular Photshop
However, this one doesn't do it for me.
It is just a re-hash of voulme one. The content is very weak and I gained very little from it.
Buy volume one by all means - and certainly buy his photshop books Adobe Photoshop CS3 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)....
but I suggest you think long and hard before buying this one
Buy a highlighter pen..., 21 Apr 2008
Please, don't take any notice of the tripe you will read in these reviews about stupid humour. It is only in a half dozen intro pages and even then, it's not enough to worry about and stop you learning from these wonderful books.
Buy this book, buy volume one too and a good highlighter pen, because you will learn an awful lot (unless you are a seasoned pro). The tips are quick, precise and have made my photography much better in the week it has taken me to read (and cover in highlighter!) both volumes.
Volume two has a great section on studio work with simple and inexpensive equipment that is worth the cover price alone. Don't listen to the silly moans about his sense of humour, buy these and learn lots!
An amazing book, 07 Apr 2008
As an amateur photographer I found the book to be compelling reading, being written in an engaging fashion and giving information in doses small enough to absorb with pleasure.
In addition to basic techniques and tips, you will also learn what equipment you require in order to improve your photography.
This is an excellent book which has helped me advance in my photography and which I have read from cover to cover at least twice.
This book is a must for anyone new to photography!
Don't buy it...., 15 Feb 2008
.....if you are a seasoned pro or utterly humourless. If you think your photographs are generally OK, but are missing that little something extra that makes them good enough to be proud of; then buy it instantly.
This isn't a technical photography manual that will spin your head out with more terms than a consolidation loan contract. Neither is it an artsy Bauhaus analysis of photography design. No, it is actually useful.
I wrote a glowing review of the first volume, and the second volume is just as good. The only downside is that I now am going to spend more money on photography kit. I really think that addiction to narcotics or alcohol would have been much cheaper and far less damaging to my marriage.
The author, to me anyway, comes across as a thoroughly nice bloke who obviously loves what he does. The style is informal and friendly and I enjoy reading both volumes again and again. If, like some reviewers, you find this off-putting I think that says far more about you than it does Scott.
In conclusion: my photographs are better after reading this book, thanks Scott.
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Customer Reviews
Easy read, 22 Nov 2008
great value for money at the price that I picked it up for. Not sure about the humour but if you can see past this then well worth a read. If like me you're trying to a bit more than just a point and click shooter then this will give you some good, and easily accessible, tips.
Best photography book ever, 14 Nov 2008
This is the best photography book I have ever purchased.
Self contained pages telling you how to get the shot.
No nonsense, no complications, no need to understand intricate instructions.
A word of caution. It has cost me a fortune! Because all of Scott's suggestions about how to get better images are actually very sensible but once you start buying better hardware - tripod, mount, lenses, printers, software, filters, flashes....you have spent a lot of extra money.
However, it is all great advice and it pays off.
I have many more really good shots on my computer after reading Scott's book/s (actually you will eventually buy the second book so you might as well get it straight away)
I have recommended this book to everybody I know who is interested on photography from beginner to interested amateur. Most have purchased and everybody is very pleased with the advice.
It makes ordinary people into much better photographers.
Phil Gordon
Newcastle upon Tyne
Fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
I have just bought this book and only really to get my free postage on my order - but what a great book! I only have a passing inerest in photography but often wondered how people got shots like they do. This book is presented in an easy to understand format and don't take any notice about the negative remarks about humour - it's there for a reason, to fix the ideas in your memory. I'm going to order the second volume as well.
A Groan A Minute, 30 Sep 2008
However useful this book may be the so-called humour is so thoroughly irritating that I ended up hurling across the room into the waste basket!
Highly recommended, 16 Sep 2008
Purchased this and the follow-up volume 2 and I have to say, I've read many books on the subject and all follow a similar path. These two books however are amazing. I have learned so much just reading volume one, that I can highly recommend these two books to anyone, who is wanting to improve their technique and produce not just good photo's but Great photo's. Scott has a very unique style which is easy to follow and along with his quirky humour (which I find actually helps get the message across) has produced two of the most amazing guides to the world of digital photography, I have had the pleasure of reading.
Great Book Even For Pro's, 05 Oct 2008
I've been a wedding photographer for 25 years. I thought this was going to be another "how to take photos book". I've liked other Scott Kelby books so whilst in a bookstore picked it up just for a quick glance, but was suprised to see how much detail he went into. Each page being a new subject, it gave a detailed taster of each subject without all the waffle many books have, and then gave links to websites where you could read more or get equipement that is hard to find. To me it was worth it just for those hard to find links.
Should have stopped at volume 1, 04 Oct 2008
I like Scott Kelby, I really do.
OK he's from the other side of the Atlantic and totally over the top - but he is totally infectious in his love of photography and, in particular Photshop
However, this one doesn't do it for me.
It is just a re-hash of voulme one. The content is very weak and I gained very little from it.
Buy volume one by all means - and certainly buy his photshop books Adobe Photoshop CS3 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)....
but I suggest you think long and hard before buying this one
Buy a highlighter pen..., 21 Apr 2008
Please, don't take any notice of the tripe you will read in these reviews about stupid humour. It is only in a half dozen intro pages and even then, it's not enough to worry about and stop you learning from these wonderful books.
Buy this book, buy volume one too and a good highlighter pen, because you will learn an awful lot (unless you are a seasoned pro). The tips are quick, precise and have made my photography much better in the week it has taken me to read (and cover in highlighter!) both volumes.
Volume two has a great section on studio work with simple and inexpensive equipment that is worth the cover price alone. Don't listen to the silly moans about his sense of humour, buy these and learn lots!
An amazing book, 07 Apr 2008
As an amateur photographer I found the book to be compelling reading, being written in an engaging fashion and giving information in doses small enough to absorb with pleasure.
In addition to basic techniques and tips, you will also learn what equipment you require in order to improve your photography.
This is an excellent book which has helped me advance in my photography and which I have read from cover to cover at least twice.
This book is a must for anyone new to photography!
Don't buy it...., 15 Feb 2008
.....if you are a seasoned pro or utterly humourless. If you think your photographs are generally OK, but are missing that little something extra that makes them good enough to be proud of; then buy it instantly.
This isn't a technical photography manual that will spin your head out with more terms than a consolidation loan contract. Neither is it an artsy Bauhaus analysis of photography design. No, it is actually useful.
I wrote a glowing review of the first volume, and the second volume is just as good. The only downside is that I now am going to spend more money on photography kit. I really think that addiction to narcotics or alcohol would have been much cheaper and far less damaging to my marriage.
The author, to me anyway, comes across as a thoroughly nice bloke who obviously loves what he does. The style is informal and friendly and I enjoy reading both volumes again and again. If, like some reviewers, you find this off-putting I think that says far more about you than it does Scott.
In conclusion: my photographs are better after reading this book, thanks Scott.
An Amazing Read, 18 Oct 2008
What an amazing read. If you are new to DSLR or photography in general and you have the D40/X you must own this book. Full of concise step by step easy to read instructions on getting the most out of your camera. I can't put it down. Learn how to use the basic dials on your camera and take great shots. Then when you feel more comfortable with it move on to more indepth actions on exposure, lighting, composition etc. Each chapter lets you feel your way in to the subject so you don't feel rushed. This allows you to understand everything easier and that way you feel like you are actually learning something and remembering it. You really can't do without this book. An amazing read. I love it as much as the camera itself.I would pay double for this book. Get it now!
Very clear and easily worth the money.., 04 Oct 2008
Firstly - dump the manual that came with your D40 in the drawer - it is next to useless if you are new to a dSLR.
Then open this book and find your way around the extensive features that this 'beginners' dSLR offers. The book is well written with multiple supporting illustrations. It quickly unravels some of what seem at first complicated menus and sub menus.
I quickly found out as an example how to limit the ISO rating the camera uses on ISO Auto, I won't tell you here, you'll have to buy the book!!! but it solved for me the issue of noise that had crept into some of my pictures when using ISO auto.
Again quickly found out how to switch off the graphic representation of the shooting settings and get it to a 'classic' setting more akin to what would appear on a LCD menu had the D40 had one. This is essential for any one who bemoans the loss of the LCD screen settings on the D40.
This book is certainly a must have for any d40 user - certainly any one using one for the first time.
If there is any down side it is the book size making it a tad of a challenge to use 'in the field' but if it was any smaller it probably wouldn't be as easy to read and follow as it is.
Top notch, 27 Aug 2008
This book does exactly what it says on the cover, takes you through all the functions (with easy to see colour pictures)), working with light, exposure, photographing different subjects, etc. It explains your Nikon D40 and all of the features, I cannot recommend this highly enough. Between this and the Ken Rockwell website I have learnt so much about the D40.
Great, 03 Jul 2008
This book tell you all you need to know when starting out with the Nikon D40 in an easy and comprehensive way unlike the original confusingly laid out manual. Additionally this book give good photo taking techniques in a variety of situations. Nice!
for newcomers, 15 May 2008
This book is brilliant if you are new to DSLR photography and the manual that comes with the camera confuses you-like it did me! I have learnt so much and have already been practising with it. Things have made sense and I have to reread it to then put it into practice, i can see me taking this book on holiday and not the manual!
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Customer Reviews
Easy read, 22 Nov 2008
great value for money at the price that I picked it up for. Not sure about the humour but if you can see past this then well worth a read. If like me you're trying to a bit more than just a point and click shooter then this will give you some good, and easily accessible, tips.
Best photography book ever, 14 Nov 2008
This is the best photography book I have ever purchased.
Self contained pages telling you how to get the shot.
No nonsense, no complications, no need to understand intricate instructions.
A word of caution. It has cost me a fortune! Because all of Scott's suggestions about how to get better images are actually very sensible but once you start buying better hardware - tripod, mount, lenses, printers, software, filters, flashes....you have spent a lot of extra money.
However, it is all great advice and it pays off.
I have many more really good shots on my computer after reading Scott's book/s (actually you will eventually buy the second book so you might as well get it straight away)
I have recommended this book to everybody I know who is interested on photography from beginner to interested amateur. Most have purchased and everybody is very pleased with the advice.
It makes ordinary people into much better photographers.
Phil Gordon
Newcastle upon Tyne
Fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
I have just bought this book and only really to get my free postage on my order - but what a great book! I only have a passing inerest in photography but often wondered how people got shots like they do. This book is presented in an easy to understand format and don't take any notice about the negative remarks about humour - it's there for a reason, to fix the ideas in your memory. I'm going to order the second volume as well.
A Groan A Minute, 30 Sep 2008
However useful this book may be the so-called humour is so thoroughly irritating that I ended up hurling across the room into the waste basket!
Highly recommended, 16 Sep 2008
Purchased this and the follow-up volume 2 and I have to say, I've read many books on the subject and all follow a similar path. These two books however are amazing. I have learned so much just reading volume one, that I can highly recommend these two books to anyone, who is wanting to improve their technique and produce not just good photo's but Great photo's. Scott has a very unique style which is easy to follow and along with his quirky humour (which I find actually helps get the message across) has produced two of the most amazing guides to the world of digital photography, I have had the pleasure of reading.
Great Book Even For Pro's, 05 Oct 2008
I've been a wedding photographer for 25 years. I thought this was going to be another "how to take photos book". I've liked other Scott Kelby books so whilst in a bookstore picked it up just for a quick glance, but was suprised to see how much detail he went into. Each page being a new subject, it gave a detailed taster of each subject without all the waffle many books have, and then gave links to websites where you could read more or get equipement that is hard to find. To me it was worth it just for those hard to find links.
Should have stopped at volume 1, 04 Oct 2008
I like Scott Kelby, I really do.
OK he's from the other side of the Atlantic and totally over the top - but he is totally infectious in his love of photography and, in particular Photshop
However, this one doesn't do it for me.
It is just a re-hash of voulme one. The content is very weak and I gained very little from it.
Buy volume one by all means - and certainly buy his photshop books Adobe Photoshop CS3 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)....
but I suggest you think long and hard before buying this one
Buy a highlighter pen..., 21 Apr 2008
Please, don't take any notice of the tripe you will read in these reviews about stupid humour. It is only in a half dozen intro pages and even then, it's not enough to worry about and stop you learning from these wonderful books.
Buy this book, buy volume one too and a good highlighter pen, because you will learn an awful lot (unless you are a seasoned pro). The tips are quick, precise and have made my photography much better in the week it has taken me to read (and cover in highlighter!) both volumes.
Volume two has a great section on studio work with simple and inexpensive equipment that is worth the cover price alone. Don't listen to the silly moans about his sense of humour, buy these and learn lots!
An amazing book, 07 Apr 2008
As an amateur photographer I found the book to be compelling reading, being written in an engaging fashion and giving information in doses small enough to absorb with pleasure.
In addition to basic techniques and tips, you will also learn what equipment you require in order to improve your photography.
This is an excellent book which has helped me advance in my photography and which I have read from cover to cover at least twice.
This book is a must for anyone new to photography!
Don't buy it...., 15 Feb 2008
.....if you are a seasoned pro or utterly humourless. If you think your photographs are generally OK, but are missing that little something extra that makes them good enough to be proud of; then buy it instantly.
This isn't a technical photography manual that will spin your head out with more terms than a consolidation loan contract. Neither is it an artsy Bauhaus analysis of photography design. No, it is actually useful.
I wrote a glowing review of the first volume, and the second volume is just as good. The only downside is that I now am going to spend more money on photography kit. I really think that addiction to narcotics or alcohol would have been much cheaper and far less damaging to my marriage.
The author, to me anyway, comes across as a thoroughly nice bloke who obviously loves what he does. The style is informal and friendly and I enjoy reading both volumes again and again. If, like some reviewers, you find this off-putting I think that says far more about you than it does Scott.
In conclusion: my photographs are better after reading this book, thanks Scott.
An Amazing Read, 18 Oct 2008
What an amazing read. If you are new to DSLR or photography in general and you have the D40/X you must own this book. Full of concise step by step easy to read instructions on getting the most out of your camera. I can't put it down. Learn how to use the basic dials on your camera and take great shots. Then when you feel more comfortable with it move on to more indepth actions on exposure, lighting, composition etc. Each chapter lets you feel your way in to the subject so you don't feel rushed. This allows you to understand everything easier and that way you feel like you are actually learning something and remembering it. You really can't do without this book. An amazing read. I love it as much as the camera itself.I would pay double for this book. Get it now!
Very clear and easily worth the money.., 04 Oct 2008
Firstly - dump the manual that came with your D40 in the drawer - it is next to useless if you are new to a dSLR.
Then open this book and find your way around the extensive features that this 'beginners' dSLR offers. The book is well written with multiple supporting illustrations. It quickly unravels some of what seem at first complicated menus and sub menus.
I quickly found out as an example how to limit the ISO rating the camera uses on ISO Auto, I won't tell you here, you'll have to buy the book!!! but it solved for me the issue of noise that had crept into some of my pictures when using ISO auto.
Again quickly found out how to switch off the graphic representation of the shooting settings and get it to a 'classic' setting more akin to what would appear on a LCD menu had the D40 had one. This is essential for any one who bemoans the loss of the LCD screen settings on the D40.
This book is certainly a must have for any d40 user - certainly any one using one for the first time.
If there is any down side it is the book size making it a tad of a challenge to use 'in the field' but if it was any smaller it probably wouldn't be as easy to read and follow as it is.
Top notch, 27 Aug 2008
This book does exactly what it says on the cover, takes you through all the functions (with easy to see colour pictures)), working with light, exposure, photographing different subjects, etc. It explains your Nikon D40 and all of the features, I cannot recommend this highly enough. Between this and the Ken Rockwell website I have learnt so much about the D40.
Great, 03 Jul 2008
This book tell you all you need to know when starting out with the Nikon D40 in an easy and comprehensive way unlike the original confusingly laid out manual. Additionally this book give good photo taking techniques in a variety of situations. Nice!
for newcomers, 15 May 2008
This book is brilliant if you are new to DSLR photography and the manual that comes with the camera confuses you-like it did me! I have learnt so much and have already been practising with it. Things have made sense and I have to reread it to then put it into practice, i can see me taking this book on holiday and not the manual!
DSLR made easy, 25 Oct 2008
This is a book for those who do not have an idea what is aperture (Av), shutter speed (Tv) or ISO. So if you have a compact point-and-shoot camera you know what these are. But it is a book that I bought before I even bought the DSLR camera. THe photos though in colour may not be the best but it is written to be read in a weekend.
D. Busch knows his stuff. At less than 10 quids it will sparkle your imagination and get your camera to go out an experiment.
Recommended.
Book, Camera, Action!, 14 Oct 2008
The big attraction of this series of "for Dummies" books is that we who buy these products have little respect for our own knowledge and plenty of respect for those who do and are able to write books like this.
I am currently converting from film photography to digital photography and some aspects are quite daunting. I have, therefore, purchased several books and tutorial DVDs on the subject and am working my way through them all. The title of this product suggests it is the right place to start and, on reflection, is exactly where I should have started. For those of you, who like me, are converting to digital for the first time, grab your camera and a copy of this book and work your way through from cover to cover until you are conversant with the new technology. It really will give you a good grounding.
That, however, will only work very well if you are already conversant with photography. If you are new to photography altogether and a digital SLR camera is your very first camera, you may have to learn a few basic lessons of, for example, the correlation between film speeds, shutter speeds and aperture settings - which really do need to be understood, before you study this book.
David Busch clearly knows what he is talking about and is able to put that knowledge into an easy-to-follow format for us Dummies to read and, as I say, I wish I had read this book before getting into some of the more technical tomes I also purchased.
NM
A worse dummy than I thought!, 17 Feb 2008
I think I must need a 'Total Idiot's Guide' as this was not what I thought it would be.
Being a complete beginner with dSLR, I thought this book would be a step-by-step guide on 'How To....' I was a bit wide of the mark - although the book says a lot about why you should do this over that, etc it left me lost on how to actually do it. So I'm using my camera on Auto until my Nikon book arrives. Let's hope I'll have more success with that one.
excellent book, 08 Feb 2008
Bought the book on the strength of the previous two reviews as I've not really been keen on the "dummies" books previously.
This one, though, is excellent. If you've spent a chunk of money on a new digital camera (like my EOS 40d!) you really should spend another £10 and read this, and actually start to understand how it all works! (If you're already expert then you won't be needing this, but understanding even how the digital sensor works is really interesting)
It's printed on good quality glossy paper (unlike some of the dummies books) and includes some really nice images.
Well worth it
The best book I've read for DSLR beginners, 09 Jan 2008
A real creative education from a proper photographer. Easy to read, and packed full of tips and tricks. Get this one.
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Customer Reviews
Easy read, 22 Nov 2008
great value for money at the price that I picked it up for. Not sure about the humour but if you can see past this then well worth a read. If like me you're trying to a bit more than just a point and click shooter then this will give you some good, and easily accessible, tips.
Best photography book ever, 14 Nov 2008
This is the best photography book I have ever purchased.
Self contained pages telling you how to get the shot.
No nonsense, no complications, no need to understand intricate instructions.
A word of caution. It has cost me a fortune! Because all of Scott's suggestions about how to get better images are actually very sensible but once you start buying better hardware - tripod, mount, lenses, printers, software, filters, flashes....you have spent a lot of extra money.
However, it is all great advice and it pays off.
I have many more really good shots on my computer after reading Scott's book/s (actually you will eventually buy the second book so you might as well get it straight away)
I have recommended this book to everybody I know who is interested on photography from beginner to interested amateur. Most have purchased and everybody is very pleased with the advice.
It makes ordinary people into much better photographers.
Phil Gordon
Newcastle upon Tyne
Fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
I have just bought this book and only really to get my free postage on my order - but what a great book! I only have a passing inerest in photography but often wondered how people got shots like they do. This book is presented in an easy to understand format and don't take any notice about the negative remarks about humour - it's there for a reason, to fix the ideas in your memory. I'm going to order the second volume as well.
A Groan A Minute, 30 Sep 2008
However useful this book may be the so-called humour is so thoroughly irritating that I ended up hurling across the room into the waste basket!
Highly recommended, 16 Sep 2008
Purchased this and the follow-up volume 2 and I have to say, I've read many books on the subject and all follow a similar path. These two books however are amazing. I have learned so much just reading volume one, that I can highly recommend these two books to anyone, who is wanting to improve their technique and produce not just good photo's but Great photo's. Scott has a very unique style which is easy to follow and along with his quirky humour (which I find actually helps get the message across) has produced two of the most amazing guides to the world of digital photography, I have had the pleasure of reading.
Great Book Even For Pro's, 05 Oct 2008
I've been a wedding photographer for 25 years. I thought this was going to be another "how to take photos book". I've liked other Scott Kelby books so whilst in a bookstore picked it up just for a quick glance, but was suprised to see how much detail he went into. Each page being a new subject, it gave a detailed taster of each subject without all the waffle many books have, and then gave links to websites where you could read more or get equipement that is hard to find. To me it was worth it just for those hard to find links.
Should have stopped at volume 1, 04 Oct 2008
I like Scott Kelby, I really do.
OK he's from the other side of the Atlantic and totally over the top - but he is totally infectious in his love of photography and, in particular Photshop
However, this one doesn't do it for me.
It is just a re-hash of voulme one. The content is very weak and I gained very little from it.
Buy volume one by all means - and certainly buy his photshop books Adobe Photoshop CS3 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)....
but I suggest you think long and hard before buying this one
Buy a highlighter pen..., 21 Apr 2008
Please, don't take any notice of the tripe you will read in these reviews about stupid humour. It is only in a half dozen intro pages and even then, it's not enough to worry about and stop you learning from these wonderful books.
Buy this book, buy volume one too and a good highlighter pen, because you will learn an awful lot (unless you are a seasoned pro). The tips are quick, precise and have made my photography much better in the week it has taken me to read (and cover in highlighter!) both volumes.
Volume two has a great section on studio work with simple and inexpensive equipment that is worth the cover price alone. Don't listen to the silly moans about his sense of humour, buy these and learn lots!
An amazing book, 07 Apr 2008
As an amateur photographer I found the book to be compelling reading, being written in an engaging fashion and giving information in doses small enough to absorb with pleasure.
In addition to basic techniques and tips, you will also learn what equipment you require in order to improve your photography.
This is an excellent book which has helped me advance in my photography and which I have read from cover to cover at least twice.
This book is a must for anyone new to photography!
Don't buy it...., 15 Feb 2008
.....if you are a seasoned pro or utterly humourless. If you think your photographs are generally OK, but are missing that little something extra that makes them good enough to be proud of; then buy it instantly.
This isn't a technical photography manual that will spin your head out with more terms than a consolidation loan contract. Neither is it an artsy Bauhaus analysis of photography design. No, it is actually useful.
I wrote a glowing review of the first volume, and the second volume is just as good. The only downside is that I now am going to spend more money on photography kit. I really think that addiction to narcotics or alcohol would have been much cheaper and far less damaging to my marriage.
The author, to me anyway, comes across as a thoroughly nice bloke who obviously loves what he does. The style is informal and friendly and I enjoy reading both volumes again and again. If, like some reviewers, you find this off-putting I think that says far more about you than it does Scott.
In conclusion: my photographs are better after reading this book, thanks Scott.
An Amazing Read, 18 Oct 2008
What an amazing read. If you are new to DSLR or photography in general and you have the D40/X you must own this book. Full of concise step by step easy to read instructions on getting the most out of your camera. I can't put it down. Learn how to use the basic dials on your camera and take great shots. Then when you feel more comfortable with it move on to more indepth actions on exposure, lighting, composition etc. Each chapter lets you feel your way in to the subject so you don't feel rushed. This allows you to understand everything easier and that way you feel like you are actually learning something and remembering it. You really can't do without this book. An amazing read. I love it as much as the camera itself.I would pay double for this book. Get it now!
Very clear and easily worth the money.., 04 Oct 2008
Firstly - dump the manual that came with your D40 in the drawer - it is next to useless if you are new to a dSLR.
Then open this book and find your way around the extensive features that this 'beginners' dSLR offers. The book is well written with multiple supporting illustrations. It quickly unravels some of what seem at first complicated menus and sub menus.
I quickly found out as an example how to limit the ISO rating the camera uses on ISO Auto, I won't tell you here, you'll have to buy the book!!! but it solved for me the issue of noise that had crept into some of my pictures when using ISO auto.
Again quickly found out how to switch off the graphic representation of the shooting settings and get it to a 'classic' setting more akin to what would appear on a LCD menu had the D40 had one. This is essential for any one who bemoans the loss of the LCD screen settings on the D40.
This book is certainly a must have for any d40 user - certainly any one using one for the first time.
If there is any down side it is the book size making it a tad of a challenge to use 'in the field' but if it was any smaller it probably wouldn't be as easy to read and follow as it is.
Top notch, 27 Aug 2008
This book does exactly what it says on the cover, takes you through all the functions (with easy to see colour pictures)), working with light, exposure, photographing different subjects, etc. It explains your Nikon D40 and all of the features, I cannot recommend this highly enough. Between this and the Ken Rockwell website I have learnt so much about the D40.
Great, 03 Jul 2008
This book tell you all you need to know when starting out with the Nikon D40 in an easy and comprehensive way unlike the original confusingly laid out manual. Additionally this book give good photo taking techniques in a variety of situations. Nice!
for newcomers, 15 May 2008
This book is brilliant if you are new to DSLR photography and the manual that comes with the camera confuses you-like it did me! I have learnt so much and have already been practising with it. Things have made sense and I have to reread it to then put it into practice, i can see me taking this book on holiday and not the manual!
DSLR made easy, 25 Oct 2008
This is a book for those who do not have an idea what is aperture (Av), shutter speed (Tv) or ISO. So if you have a compact point-and-shoot camera you know what these are. But it is a book that I bought before I even bought the DSLR camera. THe photos though in colour may not be the best but it is written to be read in a weekend.
D. Busch knows his stuff. At less than 10 quids it will sparkle your imagination and get your camera to go out an experiment.
Recommended.
Book, Camera, Action!, 14 Oct 2008
The big attraction of this series of "for Dummies" books is that we who buy these products have little respect for our own knowledge and plenty of respect for those who do and are able to write books like this.
I am currently converting from film photography to digital photography and some aspects are quite daunting. I have, therefore, purchased several books and tutorial DVDs on the subject and am working my way through them all. The title of this product suggests it is the right place to start and, on reflection, is exactly where I should have started. For those of you, who like me, are converting to digital for the first time, grab your camera and a copy of this book and work your way through from cover to cover until you are conversant with the new technology. It really will give you a good grounding.
That, however, will only work very well if you are already conversant with photography. If you are new to photography altogether and a digital SLR camera is your very first camera, you may have to learn a few basic lessons of, for example, the correlation between film speeds, shutter speeds and aperture settings - which really do need to be understood, before you study this book.
David Busch clearly knows what he is talking about and is able to put that knowledge into an easy-to-follow format for us Dummies to read and, as I say, I wish I had read this book before getting into some of the more technical tomes I also purchased.
NM
A worse dummy than I thought!, 17 Feb 2008
I think I must need a 'Total Idiot's Guide' as this was not what I thought it would be.
Being a complete beginner with dSLR, I thought this book would be a step-by-step guide on 'How To....' I was a bit wide of the mark - although the book says a lot about why you should do this over that, etc it left me lost on how to actually do it. So I'm using my camera on Auto until my Nikon book arrives. Let's hope I'll have more success with that one.
excellent book, 08 Feb 2008
Bought the book on the strength of the previous two reviews as I've not really been keen on the "dummies" books previously.
This one, though, is excellent. If you've spent a chunk of money on a new digital camera (like my EOS 40d!) you really should spend another £10 and read this, and actually start to understand how it all works! (If you're already expert then you won't be needing this, but understanding even how the digital sensor works is really interesting)
It's printed on good quality glossy paper (unlike some of the dummies books) and includes some really nice images.
Well worth it
The best book I've read for DSLR beginners, 09 Jan 2008
A real creative education from a proper photographer. Easy to read, and packed full of tips and tricks. Get this one.
Much better than expected, 08 Nov 2008
The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)
Excellent book that I have learned more from in a week than I did from Rob Sheppard's Lightroom 1 book in several months. I know that some people find Scott's casual style a bit irritating, but it is not at all intrusive in this book. In fact I think it helps me to remember things. Screen shots linked directly to the "stepped" approach, provide both a readable book and a reference work. The practical "real life" approach suits me and I would think many other photographers - Thoroughly recommended!
A lot more to Lightroom than the obvious, 08 Oct 2008
Mr. Kelby always does a good job with all his books, but this is his best yet.Written in a clear, and concise manner, and the screen captures this time are readable without the aid of a magnifying glass. The book follows a good workflow throughout, and proves what a comprehensive programme Lightroom is. This is not evident at first or even second glance, and yet Mr. Kelby makes it all appear so easy, which few writers manage to attain with so called technical books, this is his big secret.
The book is also a valuable reference.
I never knew there was so much in it!, 02 Oct 2008
With the beta release of Lightroom 2, I decided to see what all the fuss was about and try it. Once Adobe released it to manufacturing, I was happy to switch my workflow from CaptureOne + Adobe Bridge + Photoshop to Lightroom 2 + Photoshop. I was up-and-running very quickly, but I knew I was just scratching the surface. Obviously, there's a lot in Lightroom 2 and I wasn't exploiting very much of it.
I was rather pleased, then, to see that Scott Kelby was releasing this new volume and pre-ordering it was a no-brainer. I particularly like Scott's informal, conversational style of writing. I expect some may find it irritating, but for me, it makes his books more pleasant to read. Consequently, it makes it easier to retain the knowledge that he imparts.
I'm reading this one from cover-to-cover, as Scott recommends, and it's certainly working. Within the first few pages, I found useful ways to incorporate Lightroom facilities that I simply hadn't encountered. As I continue to work through, there's more and more that is helping improve my workflow considerably.
I sometimes wonder if Scott's books are a little lightweight. They certainly don't tax your brain too much. I guess that's because most of the books I read tend to be detailed technical references where there's a vast amount of information to impart in a limited space. The way Scott writes, it seems too easy. But then, that's the point, isn't it? When you're working with hundreds or even thousands of photographs at a time, it really does need to be easy. So, thumbs up to Mr Kelby for helping me find new ways to improve the efficiency of my workflow, yet again.
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Customer Reviews
Easy read, 22 Nov 2008
great value for money at the price that I picked it up for. Not sure about the humour but if you can see past this then well worth a read. If like me you're trying to a bit more than just a point and click shooter then this will give you some good, and easily accessible, tips.
Best photography book ever, 14 Nov 2008
This is the best photography book I have ever purchased.
Self contained pages telling you how to get the shot.
No nonsense, no complications, no need to understand intricate instructions.
A word of caution. It has cost me a fortune! Because all of Scott's suggestions about how to get better images are actually very sensible but once you start buying better hardware - tripod, mount, lenses, printers, software, filters, flashes....you have spent a lot of extra money.
However, it is all great advice and it pays off.
I have many more really good shots on my computer after reading Scott's book/s (actually you will eventually buy the second book so you might as well get it straight away)
I have recommended this book to everybody I know who is interested on photography from beginner to interested amateur. Most have purchased and everybody is very pleased with the advice.
It makes ordinary people into much better photographers.
Phil Gordon
Newcastle upon Tyne
Fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
I have just bought this book and only really to get my free postage on my order - but what a great book! I only have a passing inerest in photography but often wondered how people got shots like they do. This book is presented in an easy to understand format and don't take any notice about the negative remarks about humour - it's there for a reason, to fix the ideas in your memory. I'm going to order the second volume as well.
A Groan A Minute, 30 Sep 2008
However useful this book may be the so-called humour is so thoroughly irritating that I ended up hurling across the room into the waste basket!
Highly recommended, 16 Sep 2008
Purchased this and the follow-up volume 2 and I have to say, I've read many books on the subject and all follow a similar path. These two books however are amazing. I have learned so much just reading volume one, that I can highly recommend these two books to anyone, who is wanting to improve their technique and produce not just good photo's but Great photo's. Scott has a very unique style which is easy to follow and along with his quirky humour (which I find actually helps get the message across) has produced two of the most amazing guides to the world of digital photography, I have had the pleasure of reading.
Great Book Even For Pro's, 05 Oct 2008
I've been a wedding photographer for 25 years. I thought this was going to be another "how to take photos book". I've liked other Scott Kelby books so whilst in a bookstore picked it up just for a quick glance, but was suprised to see how much detail he went into. Each page being a new subject, it gave a detailed taster of each subject without all the waffle many books have, and then gave links to websites where you could read more or get equipement that is hard to find. To me it was worth it just for those hard to find links.
Should have stopped at volume 1, 04 Oct 2008
I like Scott Kelby, I really do.
OK he's from the other side of the Atlantic and totally over the top - but he is totally infectious in his love of photography and, in particular Photshop
However, this one doesn't do it for me.
It is just a re-hash of voulme one. The content is very weak and I gained very little from it.
Buy volume one by all means - and certainly buy his photshop books Adobe Photoshop CS3 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)....
but I suggest you think long and hard before buying this one
Buy a highlighter pen..., 21 Apr 2008
Please, don't take any notice of the tripe you will read in these reviews about stupid humour. It is only in a half dozen intro pages and even then, it's not enough to worry about and stop you learning from these wonderful books.
Buy this book, buy volume one too and a good highlighter pen, because you will learn an awful lot (unless you are a seasoned pro). The tips are quick, precise and have made my photography much better in the week it has taken me to read (and cover in highlighter!) both volumes.
Volume two has a great section on studio work with simple and inexpensive equipment that is worth the cover price alone. Don't listen to the silly moans about his sense of humour, buy these and learn lots!
An amazing book, 07 Apr 2008
As an amateur photographer I found the book to be compelling reading, being written in an engaging fashion and giving information in doses small enough to absorb with pleasure.
In addition to basic techniques and tips, you will also learn what equipment you require in order to improve your photography.
This is an excellent book which has helped me advance in my photography and which I have read from cover to cover at least twice.
This book is a must for anyone new to photography!
Don't buy it...., 15 Feb 2008
.....if you are a seasoned pro or utterly humourless. If you think your photographs are generally OK, but are missing that little something extra that makes them good enough to be proud of; then buy it instantly.
This isn't a technical photography manual that will spin your head out with more terms than a consolidation loan contract. Neither is it an artsy Bauhaus analysis of photography design. No, it is actually useful.
I wrote a glowing review of the first volume, and the second volume is just as good. The only downside is that I now am going to spend more money on photography kit. I really think that addiction to narcotics or alcohol would have been much cheaper and far less damaging to my marriage.
The author, to me anyway, comes across as a thoroughly nice bloke who obviously loves what he does. The style is informal and friendly and I enjoy reading both volumes again and again. If, like some reviewers, you find this off-putting I think that says far more about you than it does Scott.
In conclusion: my photographs are better after reading this book, thanks Scott.
An Amazing Read, 18 Oct 2008
What an amazing read. If you are new to DSLR or photography in general and you have the D40/X you must own this book. Full of concise step by step easy to read instructions on getting the most out of your camera. I can't put it down. Learn how to use the basic dials on your camera and take great shots. Then when you feel more comfortable with it move on to more indepth actions on exposure, lighting, composition etc. Each chapter lets you feel your way in to the subject so you don't feel rushed. This allows you to understand everything easier and that way you feel like you are actually learning something and remembering it. You really can't do without this book. An amazing read. I love it as much as the camera itself.I would pay double for this book. Get it now!
Very clear and easily worth the money.., 04 Oct 2008
Firstly - dump the manual that came with your D40 in the drawer - it is next to useless if you are new to a dSLR.
Then open this book and find your way around the extensive features that this 'beginners' dSLR offers. The book is well written with multiple supporting illustrations. It quickly unravels some of what seem at first complicated menus and sub menus.
I quickly found out as an example how to limit the ISO rating the camera uses on ISO Auto, I won't tell you here, you'll have to buy the book!!! but it solved for me the issue of noise that had crept into some of my pictures when using ISO auto.
Again quickly found out how to switch off the graphic representation of the shooting settings and get it to a 'classic' setting more akin to what would appear on a LCD menu had the D40 had one. This is essential for any one who bemoans the loss of the LCD screen settings on the D40.
This book is certainly a must have for any d40 user - certainly any one using one for the first time.
If there is any down side it is the book size making it a tad of a challenge to use 'in the field' but if it was any smaller it probably wouldn't be as easy to read and follow as it is.
Top notch, 27 Aug 2008
This book does exactly what it says on the cover, takes you through all the functions (with easy to see colour pictures)), working with light, exposure, photographing different subjects, etc. It explains your Nikon D40 and all of the features, I cannot recommend this highly enough. Between this and the Ken Rockwell website I have learnt so much about the D40.
Great, 03 Jul 2008
This book tell you all you need to know when starting out with the Nikon D40 in an easy and comprehensive way unlike the original confusingly laid out manual. Additionally this book give good photo taking techniques in a variety of situations. Nice!
for newcomers, 15 May 2008
This book is brilliant if you are new to DSLR photography and the manual that comes with the camera confuses you-like it did me! I have learnt so much and have already been practising with it. Things have made sense and I have to reread it to then put it into practice, i can see me taking this book on holiday and not the manual!
DSLR made easy, 25 Oct 2008
This is a book for those who do not have an idea what is aperture (Av), shutter speed (Tv) or ISO. So if you have a compact point-and-shoot camera you know what these are. But it is a book that I bought before I even bought the DSLR camera. THe photos though in colour may not be the best but it is written to be read in a weekend.
D. Busch knows his stuff. At less than 10 quids it will sparkle your imagination and get your camera to go out an experiment.
Recommended.
Book, Camera, Action!, 14 Oct 2008
The big attraction of this series of "for Dummies" books is that we who buy these products have little respect for our own knowledge and plenty of respect for those who do and are able to write books like this.
I am currently converting from film photography to digital photography and some aspects are quite daunting. I have, therefore, purchased several books and tutorial DVDs on the subject and am working my way through them all. The title of this product suggests it is the right place to start and, on reflection, is exactly where I should have started. For those of you, who like me, are converting to digital for the first time, grab your camera and a copy of this book and work your way through from cover to cover until you are conversant with the new technology. It really will give you a good grounding.
That, however, will only work very well if you are already conversant with photography. If you are new to photography altogether and a digital SLR camera is your very first camera, you may have to learn a few basic lessons of, for example, the correlation between film speeds, shutter speeds and aperture settings - which really do need to be understood, before you study this book.
David Busch clearly knows what he is talking about and is able to put that knowledge into an easy-to-follow format for us Dummies to read and, as I say, I wish I had read this book before getting into some of the more technical tomes I also purchased.
NM
A worse dummy than I thought!, 17 Feb 2008
I think I must need a 'Total Idiot's Guide' as this was not what I thought it would be.
Being a complete beginner with dSLR, I thought this book would be a step-by-step guide on 'How To....' I was a bit wide of the mark - although the book says a lot about why you should do this over that, etc it left me lost on how to actually do it. So I'm using my camera on Auto until my Nikon book arrives. Let's hope I'll have more success with that one.
excellent book, 08 Feb 2008
Bought the book on the strength of the previous two reviews as I've not really been keen on the "dummies" books previously.
This one, though, is excellent. If you've spent a chunk of money on a new digital camera (like my EOS 40d!) you really should spend another £10 and read this, and actually start to understand how it all works! (If you're already expert then you won't be needing this, but understanding even how the digital sensor works is really interesting)
It's printed on good quality glossy paper (unlike some of the dummies books) and includes some really nice images.
Well worth it
The best book I've read for DSLR beginners, 09 Jan 2008
A real creative education from a proper photographer. Easy to read, and packed full of tips and tricks. Get this one.
Much better than expected, 08 Nov 2008
The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)
Excellent book that I have learned more from in a week than I did from Rob Sheppard's Lightroom 1 book in several months. I know that some people find Scott's casual style a bit irritating, but it is not at all intrusive in this book. In fact I think it helps me to remember things. Screen shots linked directly to the "stepped" approach, provide both a readable book and a reference work. The practical "real life" approach suits me and I would think many other photographers - Thoroughly recommended!
A lot more to Lightroom than the obvious, 08 Oct 2008
Mr. Kelby always does a good job with all his books, but this is his best yet.Written in a clear, and concise manner, and the screen captures this time are readable without the aid of a magnifying glass. The book follows a good workflow throughout, and proves what a comprehensive programme Lightroom is. This is not evident at first or even second glance, and yet Mr. Kelby makes it all appear so easy, which few writers manage to attain with so called technical books, this is his big secret.
The book is also a valuable reference.
I never knew there was so much in it!, 02 Oct 2008
With the beta release of Lightroom 2, I decided to see what all the fuss was about and try it. Once Adobe released it to manufacturing, I was happy to switch my workflow from CaptureOne + Adobe Bridge + Photoshop to Lightroom 2 + Photoshop. I was up-and-running very quickly, but I knew I was just scratching the surface. Obviously, there's a lot in Lightroom 2 and I wasn't exploiting very much of it.
I was rather pleased, then, to see that Scott Kelby was releasing this new volume and pre-ordering it was a no-brainer. I particularly like Scott's informal, conversational style of writing. I expect some may find it irritating, but for me, it makes his books more pleasant to read. Consequently, it makes it easier to retain the knowledge that he imparts.
I'm reading this one from cover-to-cover, as Scott recommends, and it's certainly working. Within the first few pages, I found useful ways to incorporate Lightroom facilities that I simply hadn't encountered. As I continue to work through, there's more and more that is helping improve my workflow considerably.
I sometimes wonder if Scott's books are a little lightweight. They certainly don't tax your brain too much. I guess that's because most of the books I read tend to be detailed technical references where there's a vast amount of information to impart in a limited space. The way Scott writes, it seems too easy. But then, that's the point, isn't it? When you're working with hundreds or even thousands of photographs at a time, it really does need to be easy. So, thumbs up to Mr Kelby for helping me find new ways to improve the efficiency of my workflow, yet again.
Secrets from a 'shooter', 19 Nov 2008
Not many secrets here, thats just a sales come on. Some usefull beginners info but sadly let down by the appalling print quality, this is a PHOTOGRAPHY book you know, the quality of the images should be much better than this!! May appeal if you want to be a 'shooter' too!
Inspirational and an entertaining read, 18 Nov 2008
Each 2-page spread of this book is divided into three sections: a technical description of how it was done, the photo itself and an entertaining story about it. This approach works extremely well; you get the best of all worlds.
I found it technically informative though not dull, the photos are all very good and sometimes astonishing, and some of the stories are moving or laugh-out-loud funny. They also give an insight into the life of a hard-working travelling photographer. And you get to see a labelled picture of Joe McNally's photographic equipment that he takes around with him.
The language at times was slightly annoying though - after a while you start keeping a mental tally of the number of times a piece of equipment is "that puppy".
Nonetheless, five stars.
Enjoyable read and reference, 06 Nov 2008
Ive read it cover to cover and now read snippets out of it as well as just page through it looking at the images.
Overall it is inspiring, yes it does have some overview instructions, which are not laid out step by step. So don't expect it. If you want a beginners how to do it book there are some great ones around.
Very pleased to have this book in my library, Thank you Joe.
Gems from a Master, 07 Apr 2008
Great read - good anecdotes but definitely not for the beginner looking for technical info.
I couldn't put it down till I'd ploughed through it but I still keep diving in and picking up tips and techniques I can now use in my own (wedding) photography.
The references to how Joe uses the Nikon SB800's as slave units I found particularly useful.
Buy it now - great value for money.
Get inside the photographer's mind..., 10 Mar 2008
... and what a photographer! Joe McNally has a well-deserved reputation as a photographer and is only slightly less well known as a teacher. But for those of us on this side of the pond, attending one of his workshops is, let's face it, financially daunting. No matter. You can buy this book instead!
Here is much photographic wisdom in book form - and (unusually, given the subject matter) a book that can make you laugh out loud and yet teach you at the same time. OK, so some of the shots are ones you'd never get to take yourself as an amateur (hanging out of a helicopter over the Hollywood sign with Michelle Yeoh takes some beating, and as for getting to meet Kermit in the flesh...). But then for others you *can* try and emulate, even if you don't have all of the kit that Joe has available to him. And even if you can't, well, then, as the publisher's own blurb says, this book would look equally good on your coffee table.
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Customer Reviews
Easy read, 22 Nov 2008
great value for money at the price that I picked it up for. Not sure about the humour but if you can see past this then well worth a read. If like me you're trying to a bit more than just a point and click shooter then this will give you some good, and easily accessible, tips.
Best photography book ever, 14 Nov 2008
This is the best photography book I have ever purchased.
Self contained pages telling you how to get the shot.
No nonsense, no complications, no need to understand intricate instructions.
A word of caution. It has cost me a fortune! Because all of Scott's suggestions about how to get better images are actually very sensible but once you start buying better hardware - tripod, mount, lenses, printers, software, filters, flashes....you have spent a lot of extra money.
However, it is all great advice and it pays off.
I have many more really good shots on my computer after reading Scott's book/s (actually you will eventually buy the second book so you might as well get it straight away)
I have recommended this book to everybody I know who is interested on photography from beginner to interested amateur. Most have purchased and everybody is very pleased with the advice.
It makes ordinary people into much better photographers.
Phil Gordon
Newcastle upon Tyne
Fantastic!, 08 Oct 2008
I have just bought this book and only really to get my free postage on my order - but what a great book! I only have a passing inerest in photography but often wondered how people got shots like they do. This book is presented in an easy to understand format and don't take any notice about the negative remarks about humour - it's there for a reason, to fix the ideas in your memory. I'm going to order the second volume as well.
A Groan A Minute, 30 Sep 2008
However useful this book may be the so-called humour is so thoroughly irritating that I ended up hurling across the room into the waste basket!
Highly recommended, 16 Sep 2008
Purchased this and the follow-up volume 2 and I have to say, I've read many books on the subject and all follow a similar path. These two books however are amazing. I have learned so much just reading volume one, that I can highly recommend these two books to anyone, who is wanting to improve their technique and produce not just good photo's but Great photo's. Scott has a very unique style which is easy to follow and along with his quirky humour (which I find actually helps get the message across) has produced two of the most amazing guides to the world of digital photography, I have had the pleasure of reading.
Great Book Even For Pro's, 05 Oct 2008
I've been a wedding photographer for 25 years. I thought this was going to be another "how to take photos book". I've liked other Scott Kelby books so whilst in a bookstore picked it up just for a quick glance, but was suprised to see how much detail he went into. Each page being a new subject, it gave a detailed taster of each subject without all the waffle many books have, and then gave links to websites where you could read more or get equipement that is hard to find. To me it was worth it just for those hard to find links.
Should have stopped at volume 1, 04 Oct 2008
I like Scott Kelby, I really do.
OK he's from the other side of the Atlantic and totally over the top - but he is totally infectious in his love of photography and, in particular Photshop
However, this one doesn't do it for me.
It is just a re-hash of voulme one. The content is very weak and I gained very little from it.
Buy volume one by all means - and certainly buy his photshop books Adobe Photoshop CS3 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)....
but I suggest you think long and hard before buying this one
Buy a highlighter pen..., 21 Apr 2008
Please, don't take any notice of the tripe you will read in these reviews about stupid humour. It is only in a half dozen intro pages and even then, it's not enough to worry about and stop you learning from these wonderful books.
Buy this book, buy volume one too and a good highlighter pen, because you will learn an awful lot (unless you are a seasoned pro). The tips are quick, precise and have made my photography much better in the week it has taken me to read (and cover in highlighter!) both volumes.
Volume two has a great section on studio work with simple and inexpensive equipment that is worth the cover price alone. Don't listen to the silly moans about his sense of humour, buy these and learn lots!
An amazing book, 07 Apr 2008
As an amateur photographer I found the book to be compelling reading, being written in an engaging fashion and giving information in doses small enough to absorb with pleasure.
In addition to basic techniques and tips, you will also learn what equipment you require in order to improve your photography.
This is an excellent book which has helped me advance in my photography and which I have read from cover to cover at least twice.
This book is a must for anyone new to photography!
Don't buy it...., 15 Feb 2008
.....if you are a seasoned pro or utterly humourless. If you think your photographs are generally OK, but are missing that little something extra that makes them good enough to be proud of; then buy it instantly.
This isn't a technical photography manual that will spin your head out with more terms than a consolidation loan contract. Neither is it an artsy Bauhaus analysis of photography design. No, it is actually useful.
I wrote a glowing review of the first volume, and the second volume is just as good. The only downside is that I now am going to spend more money on photography kit. I really think that addiction to narcotics or alcohol would have been much cheaper and far less damaging to my marriage.
The author, to me anyway, comes across as a thoroughly nice bloke who obviously loves what he does. The style is informal and friendly and I enjoy reading both volumes again and again. If, like some reviewers, you find this off-putting I think that says far more about you than it does Scott.
In conclusion: my photographs are better after reading this book, thanks Scott.
An Amazing Read, 18 Oct 2008
What an amazing read. If you are new to DSLR or photography in general and you have the D40/X you must own this book. Full of concise step by step easy to read instructions on getting the most out of your camera. I can't put it down. Learn how to use the basic dials on your camera and take great shots. Then when you feel more comfortable with it move on to more indepth actions on exposure, lighting, composition etc. Each chapter lets you feel your way in to the subject so you don't feel rushed. This allows you to understand everything easier and that way you feel like you are actually learning something and remembering it. You really can't do without this book. An amazing read. I love it as much as the camera itself.I would pay double for this book. Get it now!
Very clear and easily worth the money.., 04 Oct 2008
Firstly - dump the manual that came with your D40 in the drawer - it is next to useless if you are new to a dSLR.
Then open this book and find your way around the extensive features that this 'beginners' dSLR offers. The book is well written with multiple supporting illustrations. It quickly unravels some of what seem at first complicated menus and sub menus.
I quickly found out as an example how to limit the ISO rating the camera uses on ISO Auto, I won't tell you here, you'll have to buy the book!!! but it solved for me the issue of noise that had crept into some of my pictures when using ISO auto.
Again quickly found out how to switch off the graphic representation of the shooting settings and get it to a 'classic' setting more akin to what would appear on a LCD menu had the D40 had one. This is essential for any one who bemoans the loss of the LCD screen settings on the D40.
This book is certainly a must have for any d40 user - certainly any one using one for the first time.
If there is any down side it is the book size making it a tad of a challenge to use 'in the field' but if it was any smaller it probably wouldn't be as easy to read and follow as it is.
Top notch, 27 Aug 2008
This book does exactly what it says on the cover, takes you through all the functions (with easy to see colour pictures)), working with light, exposure, photographing different subjects, etc. It explains your Nikon D40 and all of the features, I cannot recommend this highly enough. Between this and the Ken Rockwell website I have learnt so much about the D40.
Great, 03 Jul 2008
This book tell you all you need to know when starting out with the Nikon D40 in an easy and comprehensive way unlike the original confusingly laid out manual. Additionally this book give good photo taking techniques in a variety of situations. Nice!
for newcomers, 15 May 2008
This book is brilliant if you are new to DSLR photography and the manual that comes with the camera confuses you-like it did me! I have learnt so much and have already been practising with it. Things have made sense and I have to reread it to then put it into practice, i can see me taking this book on holiday and not the manual!
DSLR made easy, 25 Oct 2008
This is a book for those who do not have an idea what is aperture (Av), shutter speed (Tv) or ISO. So if you have a compact point-and-shoot camera you know what these are. But it is a book that I bought before I even bought the DSLR camera. THe photos though in colour may not be the best but it is written to be read in a weekend.
D. Busch knows his stuff. At less than 10 quids it will sparkle your imagination and get your camera to go out an experiment.
Recommended.
Book, Camera, Action!, 14 Oct 2008
The big attraction of this series of "for Dummies" books is that we who buy these products have little respect for our own knowledge and plenty of respect for those who do and are able to write books like this.
I am currently converting from film photography to digital photography and some aspects are quite daunting. I have, therefore, purchased several books and tutorial DVDs on the subject and am working my way through them all. The title of this product suggests it is the right place to start and, on reflection, is exactly where I should have started. For those of you, who like me, are converting to digital for the first time, grab your camera and a copy of this book and work your way through from cover to cover until you are conversant with the new technology. It really will give you a good grounding.
That, however, will only work very well if you are already conversant with photography. If you are new to photography altogether and a digital SLR camera is your very first camera, you may have to learn a few basic lessons of, for example, the correlation between film speeds, shutter speeds and aperture settings - which really do need to be understood, before you study this book.
David Busch clearly knows what he is talking about and is able to put that knowledge into an easy-to-follow format for us Dummies to read and, as I say, I wish I had read this book before getting into some of the more technical tomes I also purchased.
NM
A worse dummy than I thought!, 17 Feb 2008
I think I must need a 'Total Idiot's Guide' as this was not what I thought it would be.
Being a complete beginner with dSLR, I thought this book would be a step-by-step guide on 'How To....' I was a bit wide of the mark - although the book says a lot about why you should do this over that, etc it left me lost on how to actually do it. So I'm using my camera on Auto until my Nikon book arrives. Let's hope I'll have more success with that one.
excellent book, 08 Feb 2008
Bought the book on the strength of the previous two reviews as I've not really been keen on the "dummies" books previously.
This one, though, is excellent. If you've spent a chunk of money on a new digital camera (like my EOS 40d!) you really should spend another £10 and read this, and actually start to understand how it all works! (If you're already expert then you won't be needing this, but understanding even how the digital sensor works is really interesting)
It's printed on good quality glossy paper (unlike some of the dummies books) and includes some really nice images.
Well worth it
The best book I've read for DSLR beginners, 09 Jan 2008
A real creative education from a proper photographer. Easy to read, and packed full of tips and tricks. Get this one.
Much better than expected, 08 Nov 2008
The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter)
Excellent book that I have learned more from in a week than I did from Rob Sheppard's Lightroom 1 book in several months. I know that some people find Scott's casual style a bit irritating, but it is not at all intrusive in this book. In fact I think it helps me to remember things. Screen shots linked directly to the "stepped" approach, provide both a readable book and a reference work. The practical "real life" approach suits me and I would think many other photographers - Thoroughly recommended!
A lot more to Lightroom than the obvious, 08 Oct 2008
Mr. Kelby always does a good job with all his books, but this is his best yet.Written in a clear, and concise manner, and the screen captures this time are readable without the aid of a magnifying glass. The book follows a good workflow throughout, and proves what a comprehensive programme Lightroom is. This is not evident at first or even second glance, and yet Mr. Kelby makes it all appear so easy, which few writers manage to attain with so called technical books, this is his big secret.
The book is also a valuable reference.
I never knew there was so much in it!, 02 Oct 2008
With the beta release of Lightroom 2, I decided to see what all the fuss was about and try it. Once Adobe released it to manufacturing, I was happy to switch my workflow from CaptureOne + Adobe Bridge + Photoshop to Lightroom 2 + Photoshop. I was up-and-running very quickly, but I knew I was just scratching the surface. Obviously, there's a lot in Lightroom 2 and I wasn't exploiting very much of it.
I was rather pleased, then, to see that Scott Kelby was releasing this new volume and pre-ordering it was a no-brainer. I particularly like Scott's informal, conversational style of writing. I expect some may find it irritating, but for me, it makes his books more pleasant to read. Consequently, it makes it easier to retain the knowledge that he imparts.
I'm reading this one from cover-to-cover, as Scott recommends, and it's certainly working. Within the first few pages, I found useful ways to incorporate Lightroom facilities that I simply hadn't encountered. As I continue to work through, there's more and more that is helping improve my workflow considerably.
I sometimes wonder if Scott's books are a little lightweight. They certainly don't tax your brain too much. I guess that's because most of the books I read tend to be detailed technical references where there's a vast amount of information to impart in a limited space. The way Scott writes, it seems too easy. But then, that's the point, isn't it? When you're working with hundreds or even thousands of photographs at a time, it really does need to be easy. So, thumbs up to Mr Kelby for helping me find new ways to improve the efficiency of my workflow, yet again.
Secrets from a 'shooter', 19 Nov 2008
Not many secrets here, thats just a sales come on. Some usefull beginners info but sadly let down by the appalling print quality, this is a PHOTOGRAPHY book you know, the quality of the images should be much better than this!! May appeal if you want to be a 'shooter' too!
Inspirational and an entertaining read, 18 Nov 2008
Each 2-page spread of this book is divided into three sections: a technical description of how it was done, the photo itself and an entertaining story about it. This approach works extremely well; you get the best of all worlds.
I found it technically informative though not dull, the photos are all very good and sometimes astonishing, and some of the stories are moving or laugh-out-loud funny. They also give an insight into the life of a hard-working travelling photographer. And you get to see a labelled picture of Joe McNally's photographic equipment that he takes around with him.
The language at times was slightly annoying though - after a while you start keeping a mental tally of the number of times a piece of equipment is "that puppy".
Nonetheless, five stars.
Enjoyable read and reference, 06 Nov 2008
Ive read it cover to cover and now read snippets out of it as well as just page through it looking at the images.
Overall it is inspiring, yes it does have some overview instructions, which are not laid out step by step. So don't expect it. If you want a beginners how to do it book there are some great ones around.
Very pleased to have this book in my library, Thank you Joe.
Gems from a Master, 07 Apr 2008
Great read - good anecdotes but definitely not for the beginner looking for technical info.
I couldn't put it down till I'd ploughed through it but I still keep diving in and picking up tips and techniques I can now use in my own (wedding) photography.
The references to how Joe uses the Nikon SB800's as slave units I found particularly useful.
Buy it now - great value for money.
Get inside the photographer's mind..., 10 Mar 2008
... and what a photographer! Joe McNally has a well-deserved reputation as a photographer and is only slightly less well known as a teacher. But for those of us on this side of the pond, attending one of his workshops is, let's face it, financially daunting. No matter. You can buy this book instead!
Here is much photographic wisdom in book form - and (unusually, given the subject matter) a book that can make you laugh out loud and yet teach you at the same time. OK, so some of the shots are ones you'd never get to take yourself as an amateur (hanging out of a helicopter over the Hollywood sign with Michelle Yeoh takes some beating, and as for getting to meet Kermit in the flesh...). But then for others you *can* try and emulate, even if you don't have all of the kit that Joe has available to him. And even if you can't, well, then, as the publisher's own blurb says, this book would look equally good on your coffee table.
Had very little presentation experience, never heard of Garr, gave a ppt based on this book - really positive feedback on my ppt, 19 Nov 2008
I have never left a review before but this book really helped me. I have made the odd slide before but nothing fancy. I needed to give a full presentation as part of an assignment and as part of my work role. I had created the usual text laden ppt that I had experience of seeing others present. I needed some literature to back up my decision in my assignment and found this book. In one day it transformed my whole presentation. I had lots of fun using pictures suggested from istockphoto and the critical audience that I presented to was really impressed with the slides I had produced. Yes most of what he says is common sense when you think about it - but the book is so easy to follow and you will kick yourself for not realising it all by yourself! However sometimes you need things pointed out to you simply! Its an easy read and can make a difference! I would strongly recommend this book - in fact I already have!
Should be required reading for presenters, 14 Nov 2008
Bought this on "spec", and found it extremely useful. Written in a light and easy manner, never preachy, yet supplying valuable concepts and rules for all presentations.
Should be required readings for anybody wanting to create a powerpoint presentation, as there are soooo many bad PP's out there.
Only looses five full stars because it relies a lot on asking you to use stock photographs from sites such as iStockPhoto, that need a subscription - which few can afford.
Replace Bullet Points with Dental Posters That Evoke Positive Feelings, Tell Stories, and Be Mentally Present, 21 Oct 2008
Long before there was PowerPoint, most presentations contained more columns of numbers and bullet points than pictures. PowerPoint seemed designed to capture the essence of those transparencies and make it faster to create them . . . while adding color. Compared to those ugly transparencies, PowerPoint seemed like an improvement.
By comparison, my dentist has always covered his walls with beautiful bleed images of gorgeous places combined with intriguing sayings about life. Those posters are the only uplifting thing about my trips to the dentist's office. He doesn't tell me any entertaining stories.
In presentationzen, Garr Reynolds shares with us that today's audiences like a standard PowerPoint presentation about as much as I like going to the dentist (I doubt if you are surprised by that). His prescription is to turn the typical presentation into a series of stories aided by exhibits that remind me of those dental posters while being very responsive (present . . . in his terminology) to the audience.
The book's main strength, and one that makes it well worth reading and following, is in describing a process that can be used to create a presentation that will be compelling. Even when I see a presentation that I like, I don't learn much from the example because the presenter doesn't share the process behind the result.
The examples almost all showed someone in a black turtle neck, black pants, and black shoes who looked like a Steve Jobs acolyte. As a result, there's an Apple versus Microsoft tone to the book that didn't match any environment where I ever see or give presentations (usually board rooms and senior corporate conference rooms).
Most presentations should be much shorter, should have a lot less material, and should be much easier to grasp. This book will help you if that's the way you want to go. Beware, however, that you don't go over the edge into becoming an "artiste" in your presentations. This book will probably push you a little too far in that direction.
For those who cannot imagine how an image might fit into a presentation, this book will be a great breath of fresh air. To those who want to copy the advice closely, keep your audience in mind. You might try to take them places where they don't want to go.
In my 30-plus years of presentation experience, I find that the story is the key to success. One good story will more than carry the day. You can draw on a chalk board with your fingernails for graphics and a good story will still work just fine. To me, the weakness of this book is that it doesn't pay enough to the story telling aspect of successful presentations.
I recommend Stephen Denning's books on story telling to help you with that aspect of presentations.
Must read for people doing Presentation, 08 Oct 2008
This book is a must read on the Topic. Some people might find it not practical but I don't agree, it's just that it makes you think on the way we've been taught to do Powerpoint presentation. And from there Garr Reynolds gives you the keys on how to prepare, design and deliver your presentation. Presentation is in our everyday life, face to face, powerpoint, meeting, selling etc... Presentation Zen is a classic in Business (read also his blog)
Presentations worth meditating on...., 16 Sep 2008
This concise book is a real breath of fresh air in presentation design. Stripping the art of presenting back to basics, Garr Reynolds advocates a clean and simple form of presentation that he argues strengthens a presentation's quality.
I'd certainly agree and the book is beatifully illustrated with examples of this crisp and clean design style. I used the book as inspiration for a series of presentations (both for myself and my graphic design team) and the resulting presentations were a massive improvement on previous work and very well received.
If you like long lists of bullet points, don't buy this boo. If you like clean and elegant work, get a copy now!
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