When Joe McNally sends me an email saying that he wants to send me his latest book, I tend to stop whatever I'm doing and respond to that email. Joe is one of my FAVORITE PHOTOGRAPHERS and he inspires me. Every photographer I know has someone that they look up to and hope to be like some day. For me, Joe McNally is one of those photographers that inspires me to try to do better. Of course I like Joe's photography and lighting skills, but I'm also inspired by the way Joe works with subjects. He is masterful in getting what he wants out of the subject in front of his camera. Every time I'm with him on a shoot or in a class I say "Wow, why can't I do that?"
This really is a book about learning how to shoot like the Pros
One of the things that actually surprised me was that this book is exactly as the title describes it. Don't get me wrong I think Joe is an excellent instructor, but in his other books Joe talks about photography through his life stories and pretty pictures. While there is certainly nothing wrong with that (I DO LEARN from Joe's stories) and I'm in awe of his shots, this book jumps right in and starts teaching you stuff. Go figure 🙂 The first chapter is called "Part One: Light". It starts off with a basic explanation of how the camera processes light, Exposure and camera settings. Then Joe jumps right in with tips and how and more importantly WHEN to capture the best light. He covers it all. Shooting on a sunny day, sunsets, a beach, a snowy day, etc. etc. and that's just chapter one! Joe then goes on to talk about the lens, Design Elements (I can't wait to finish this one!), Color, Composition and some last minute tips. Wow! This puppy is PACKED with great info and I can't wait to finish it over my holiday break.
The Bottom Line
No matter where you are in your photography skills, you can probably learn something from others. If I was 1/10th as good as Joe I'd be ecstatic, so I'm glad that I can learn from him and others. This is a great read. I'm only half way through it and loving what I'm learning. Thanks Joe for the opportunity to learn from you! I'm forever grateful.
You can order The LIFE Guide to Digital Photography – Everything You Need To Shoot Like The Pros here on sale.
I just ordered this book as a gift for a fellow shooter…..Thanks for the recommendation Terry.
I have a few of Joe’s other books also……. awesome reads.
Well deserved, Joe … the book is fabulous!
I bought this book when it first came out. As usual life got busy and I had to put it down but your post reminds me that I need to pick it back up and get learning!
Couldn’t agree more. Originally bought this because well, it’s JOE, and thought I’d read it and pass it on. . . NOT SO FAST! I keep learning and re-learning through experience and example. Brilliant book that will show you everything you need to motivate yourself at any level to take great frames.
I’m on my second trip through this book, it’s absolutely awesome!!
Joe makes learning easy and his style of writing is as entertaining as it is educational.
Looking forward to reading this new book? Is it available on Kindle or iBooks? Had a look but can’t find it. Yet
Fingers are firmly crossed that Mrs D has taken the onslaught of hints that this would make a great Christmas present for yours truly 🙂
Book looks fantastic which is a done deal when it’s by Joe!
Great present for you Terry and to get it from the man himself, well…doesn’t get any better than that.
Best wishes,
Glyn
I cannot wait to read it. Joe is definitely a fan of mine he inspired me in many ways on my photography skills, I have a couple of his DVDs.
Can’t wait to buy the book.
Thanks Terry