Complete Photography: Understand Cameras to Take, Edit and Share Better Photo’s

Half text, half photographs, this complete and nicely produced reference book on photography, Complete Photography, should be on the shelf of any serious photographer. Chris Gatcum had a range of photographers in mind, ranging from bare beginners interested in advancing their techniques and art through more serious amateurs, even professionals. Gatcum’s writing is very good; his explanations are clear, brief, and to the point. Every one of his six chapters ends in a short, several-page write-up called Master Class, each featuring the expertise of a well-known photographer (including a web link). You can learn through these about subjects such as portraits, retouching, or documentary. Each is accompanied by a sidebar of the featured photographer’s tips. This book is very extensive, comprehensive, and unconditionally excellent. Gatcum was careful to keep his paragraphs brief and easy to read and follow. Many sidebars and numerous illustrations make this volume even easier to read. It is also full of technical examples (high and low dynamic ranges, preset white balance, color balance). A detailed glossary at the end of the book is very useful. Even though the focus is on digital, Gatcum also briefly touches on film photography.