I had a blast reading Scott Kelby’s "The Digital Photography Book" volume one. I learned a ton of great tips that have greatly improved my photography. Well, he’s written a follow up book and yes you’ve guessed the title "The Digital Photography Book" volume two. This one picks right up where volume one left off.
I found both titles to be easy reads and not biased towards one brand of camera or another (provided you’re shooting with Canon or Nikon 🙂 ), all kidding aside, there are tips that can be used by digital photographers at all levels. The new book is the same format as the last one where there is one photo and one tip per page. The 217 page book is a must read for those of you looking to improve your skills behind the camera. There is very little mention of Photoshop, so it’s not a Photoshop how-to book. Instead Scott aims to have you get it right in the camera so that you don’t have to do a lot of work in Photoshop. Scott wrote this book as if you and he were on a shoot together and you asked, "how would I shoot this?" Rather than give you a lot of technical jargon and the history of photography, he would just tell you what to set your camera and how to compose the shot. I devoured the first volume in a couple of days and couldn’t put it down. However, due to time constraints I’m only half way through this one so far. I have already learned a lot, but what I’m realizing is that this stuff is starting to sink in. The reason I say this is that while the book is packed with all NEW tips and techniques, there aren’t nearly as many "aha" moments for me this time around. This means that I’ve learned a lot since the first volume and it’s sticking. I can’t wait until my next shoot to put some of these new techniques to use. This book is another winner!
The weekend is here and hey, you need a new book to read anyway. So check out The Digital Photography Book volume two. Amazon has it for $14.99. There’s probably a copy available at your local book store as well.
I took delivery of my copy of this book a week or two ago and although I have only read the first two chapters so far (its been a busy old time here in England). I feel that the first chapter on flash has really improved my photography and made me look at how I use the light slightly differently.
I recommend this book to all photographs, and the same applies for the first version as well.
Terry, I’ve become addicted to your site (you’re #1 on my Bookmarks Bar). Hardly a day goes by that I don’t check to see what’s new. Your reviews are great and I highly respect your recommendations. I’m excited about the Digital Photography Book not only for myself but as gifts for all the photographers in my life! And since I didn’t know about #1 much less #2 – double thanks!
Hey LTalk,
Thanks!