New Blog Post: Photo How-To Books That Don't Suck and One That Does

I was recently contacted by a photographer who can't fit a photo workshop into her schedule but wants to improve her skills and knowledge of her camera's operation. I promised her I'd write a blog post about all the photo how-to books I found helpful. I published "Photo How-To Books That Don't Suck and One That Does" this morning.

I invite you to check it out. Leave a comment if I didn't include your favorite book or if you have an opinion about any of my suggestions.

And finally, the one and only photography book I’ve ever returned (drum roll please)…

hehe...I whole-heartedly agree.

I get the idea you guys don't like John Fielder much, especially you guys from Colorado. Does he still have a publishing company? One thing I did take from his book was his easy explanation of the Scheimpflug Principle.

Dean: I have nothing against Fielder. He's a hell of a good businessman. I just didn't find his book at all helpful and written in a very arrogant voice. Just not my cup of tea. As far as I know he does still have a publishing company. Westcliffe Publishing maybe?

For better or worse, the Fielder book was one of the most influential books I read/used as I was developing. I imagine a lot has to do with where you are/were as a photographer when you come across it.

I can see how it might come across as arrogant - particularly to someone at a more advanced level. But I really think it's more a simplification of principles in most cases, and to some it's undoubtedly oversimplified to the point of perhaps appearing condescending. But to a novice - which I was when I came across it many years ago - it was extremely beneficial.

The guy does do dorky stuff. When I was the moderator here, I sent - on behalf of the forum - condolences when his son passed away. He wrote a personal note to thank us... and also plugged his upcoming workshops.

Bret, thanks for posting this. I am always looking for good reading materials, and your feedback is much appreciated. Both for what to and not to look for. =)

Glad you have Art Wolfe's "The Art of Photographing Nature" on there. One of the first books I bought when I started getting into photography, and still one of my favorites.

Rick: I bet you're right about Fielder's book. Next time I'm at Barnes & Noble I might flip through it again just to see if my opinion has changed with my age.

Koveh: Glad you enjoyed the list!

Brent: Yeah, Art Wolfe's books are excellent. I used to have one that he co-wrote with a woman who is or was a photo editor (Martha something or other, maybe) and it was excellent. I can't find my copy and I couldn't find anything about it online, though. At any rate, it was a really excellent book.

Thanks, Bret...
I already have a couple of those books, and now I can add a few more to my list of books to buy...

Glad you enjoyed the list and post, Bob!

Great blog, Bret. I found the John Shaw and Tim Fitzharris books very helpful getting started.

What do you think of the book by the Mountain Trail Photo Team (members here at NPN, I believe) The Ultimate Guide to Digital Nature Photography? I really liked their style and organization of the material.