Author: Adobe Creative Team
Creative professionals seeking the fastest, easiest, most comprehensive way to learn Adobe Photoshop CS5 choose Adobe Photoshop CS5 Classroom in a Book from the Adobe Creative Team at Adobe Press. The 14 project-based lessons in this book show readers step-by-step the key techniques for working in Photoshop CS5.
In addition to learning the key elements of the Photoshop interface, this completely revised CS5 edition shows readers how to edit images with precise selection control, correct a wide range of lens-based errors, interactively transform their images with the new Puppet Warp tool, and easily remove or replace image elements with the new Content-Aware Fill mode. The book also covers new powerful painting effects to artistically enhance images and shows how to combine multiple exposures into a single HDR image.
Adobe Certified Instructor, Rocky Mountain Training (2010-08-30)Speaking as an Adobe Certified Photoshop Instructor, I think the Photoshop CS5 book is terrific. If you don't understand workspaces, selections and layers, you will not get very far in Photoshop. This book does an excellent job of teaching the basics, and then allows you to continue on to learn masking, working with type, compositing and more. Sure, there are some areas that could use a little more explanation, but that's why we choose to use them in our online Photoshop classes. When you combine this book (or any of the Classroom in a Book titles) with an experienced instructor, there are simply no better materials out there. I've been using the series since I started teaching Photoshop version 3, and my students have always loved the exercises and given very high ratings to the books. So far, Adobe Photoshop CS5 Classroom in a Book has been very well received by our students at Rocky Mountain Training.
Adobe should be ashamed to put their name on this book (2010-08-28)I am an advanced photographer and have used Photoshop for years. This is the third edition of Classroom in a book for me and I was disappointed. The authors used several of the same old photos. Worse from my viewpoint is that several of the lessons were quite complex with no explanation of the reason for each of the steps. It is like a cookbook which is only useful for making the included recipes but not for learning how to cook. I think the Scott Kelby books are much more useful (and fun). Even the Martin Evening books which I don't like because the print is too small for my tired old eyes and can be rather dry are better than this effort.
Maybe a designer would find the book more useful but in my opinion Photographers should avoid it.
VERY INFORMATIVE (2010-08-22)I have been using Photoshop since 1998. I upgraded to CS4 but never had time to learn all the new features. Now I have upgraded to CS5 and I needed to get educated about all the amazing new features. I bought this book and I was going to skip over a few sections but decided not to. I am very glad i did not. I learned something from each section even the simple selecting section.
I especially love how they gave thorough descriptions of color corrections and what all the adjustments do. LOVE this book, and also bought the InDesign Classroom book. I had bought the Adobe Design Premium Suite, so I will be buying Flash, Illustrator and other Classroom books. I had gone to a B&N and looked through other books and nothing was as good as these series. AND it from ADOBE not another Author.
CW from MASS
Students seeking an at-home course will find this a winner! (2010-08-15)Adobe Photoshop CS5 Classroom in a Book comes with a fine DVD-ROM for Windows and Mac OS filled with 2 hours of tutorials, and provides the easiest way to learn Photoshop CS5. The 'classroom' format centers around 14 lessons covering the basics of learning Photoshop and provides tips to become more productive with the program. It can be viewed in a progressive learning environment or referred to as a reference by skipping around: either way, students seeking an at-home course will find this a winner!
Some great information gems, and some not so great exercises (2010-08-14)There are things I really liked about this book and things I really didn't like.
The primary thing I didn't like was the approach they took to the exercises. For instance in the section on adjusting color in Camera Raw, they tell you specifically (by number) where to move the temperature, tint, exposure, blacks, contrast, clarity, vibrance, and saturation sliders, but there is no discussion as to why these amounts for this image work. This problem goes on throughout the book. I'd say that's a pretty huge weakness.
On page 118 there is a pull out box with the headline "About layer-comps" that has 3 paragraphs talking about how great layer comps are. (It's a way to look at different versions of complicated multi-layer PS file.) But it doesn't tell you how to create one, or even mention that there is a complete discussion of the subject that begins on page 242.
But the things I did like make this book worth purchasing. At the end of each section are review questions and answers. The answers are wonderful, brief and to the point. And there are other golden nuggets of information sprinkled throughout the chapters and book. For instance in the section on Working with channels it says, "To avoid confusing channels and layers, think of channels as containing an image's color and selection information; think of layers as containing painting and effects." While I knew that intuitively from working with them so much, I could never have explained it so simply.
The section on creating paths using the pen tool that starts on page 202 is the best description I have read. I've used the pen tool a lot, and I've been putting too many points in because I didn't really understand it. I dog-eared this section so I can find it quickly. I ended up adding 9 such dog-ears throughout the book.
The section on the mixer brush was also very well done, and another area I was not up to speed on. I had been going over to Corel Painter for most of my painting issues, and it looks as though that may not be necessary.
So while this book has examples that I didn't find useful, it is worth reading every word because you never know when there will be some wonderful explanation that you hadn't heard. I mean it was written by the people who created Photoshop
Author: Scott Kelby
Since Lightroom first launched, Scott Kelby's The Lightroom Book for Digital Photographers has been the world's #1 best-selling Lightroom book. In this latest version for Lightroom 3, Scott uses his same step-by-step, plain-English style and layout to make learning Lightroom easy and fun. Scott doesn't just show you which sliders do what. Instead, by using the following three simple, yet brilliant, techniques that make it just an incredible learning tool, this book shows you how to create your own photography workflow using Lightroom:
1) Scott shares his own personal settings and studio-tested techniques. He trains thousands of Lightroom users at his "Lightroom Live!" tour and knows first hand what really works and what doesn't.
2) The entire book is laid out in a real workflow order with everything step by step, so you can begin using Lightroom like a pro from the start.
3) What really sets this book apart are the last two chapters. This is where Scott dramatically answers his #1 most-asked Lightroom question, which is: "Exactly what order am I supposed to do things in, and where does Photoshop fit in?" Plus, this is the first version of the book that includes his famous "7-Point System for Lightroom," which lets you focus on mastering just the seven most important editing techniques.
The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 Book for Digital Photographers is the first and only book to bring the whole process together in such a clear, concise, and visual way.
Just What I Needed (2010-09-06)This is exactly what I needed to learn Lightroom 3. There are a few books out there on Lightroom 3, but this book is what I was looking for. Since I'm a fairly new beginner in Lightroom, I needed a book to walk me through the basics and get started, but not talk over my head. This book just does that, it explains in each chapter what you going to be doing, with great examples, and speaks in a language you can understand. You also have to admit that this author has a great sense of humor, which makes learning this software a lot of fun!
Step-by-step instructions... (2010-09-06)Unlike his books for Adobe Photoshop Elements, this book goes step-by-step through Lightroom 3. He stresses that you spend time on the initial setup so that it will work as an organizer for you and will be easy to backup. I like the detailed advice since organization is my main concern now.
Solid, Thorough, Informative--But Get to the Point! (2010-09-05)Author Scott Kelby, an accomplished commercial photographer and renowned PhotoShop expert & lecturer, is extremely well versed in virtually every aspect of Lightroom 3. So this book is a great source of information about how to best use this latest version of Lightroom. But sometimes as I'm trying to find the answer to a question, I want to scream, "Stop with the jokes and entertaining stories Scott, and get to the point"!
Scott's presentation style is friendly, breezy and unique. This helps separate Scott and his book from so many other "how to" manuals. But, there are times I wish he's cut to the chase with an outline or bullet points to explain how to get LR3 to do what you want it to do!
Cut the jokes- get to the meat (2010-09-03)Although most books by Scott Kelby are well written and extremely informative, I wish he would leave out all the jokes and sick humor found in every book he writes. At a minimum he would cut down on paper use which would be more beneficial to all including the planet we live on.
Lightroom 3, Great book, highly recommended (2010-08-30)"The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 Book by Scott Kelby is a very good book for those of us using Lightroom who would like to take better advantage of this product. The step-by-step tutorials are very good and the illustrations are helpful. I would recommend this book to anyone who uses Lightroom. Of course, I also recommend Lightroom as a photo editor and management solution.
Author: Martin Evening
With the new edition of this proven bestseller, Photoshop users can master the power of Photoshop CS5 with internationally renowned photographer and Photoshop hall-of-famer Martin Evening by their side.
In this acclaimed reference work, Martin covers everything from the core aspects of working in Photoshop to advanced techniques for professional results. subjects covered include organizing a digital workflow, improving creativity, output, automating Photoshop, and using Camera RAW. The style of the book is extremely clear, with real examples, diagrams, illustrations, and step-by-step explanations supporting the text throughout. This is, quite simply, the essential reference for photographers of all levels using Photoshop.
* Learn Photoshop the Martin Evening way! Everything you need to know for superb photographic results using Photoshop CS5
* Accompanying DVD includes the images used in the book, as well as QuickTime movie tutorials that show you how to get results fast
* Packed with diagrams, step-by-steps, and over 750 color images
Useful for the non-pro also (2010-09-03)The problem with Photoshop is that it is not so much a computer program as a way of life. It is an amazingly diverse set of tools but it is a complex application; becoming fully expert in its capabilities can take years. A whole industry has grown up to teach Photoshop, including books, online tutorials, videos, seminars, courses, and magazines. For the professional photographer or graphic editor, this is all good; one must learn Photoshop. But my perspective is the advanced amateur or hobbyist who has to decide how much time I can devote. The big investment is not the dollars to buy the software, but the hundreds of hours required to become fluent. What I need is an efficient resource to learn quickly. This book, the semi-official PS manual, is proving very useful. Martin Evening is a British fashion photographer, and this is the 8th edition of his manual. It is pretty much the bible of PS.
When I first received this book my first impression was: wow, heavy! Weighs several pounds and 768 pages. And not just a book but a DVD packed full of examples. Although it does cover basics, this is not for the beginner; rather an encyclopedic resource covering every technique a professional might need. Included are sophisticated techniques such as High Dynamic Range and workflow issues such as the choice of a companion file management program. One complication is that PS has evolved over the past 15 years, adding more and more features while rarely dropping any, so there is some redundancy. This can be confusing and means that Photoshop may offer more than one way to produce a given effect - an easy way versus a cumbersome way, or a crude versus a sophisticated way, or a messy versus a precise way. So it becomes important to learn good habits and style. The DVD is helpful because one can watch over the shoulder of a master, step by step. There is also a companion volume "Workshop" coming out with another 496 pages of tips and examples. The two books plus DVD comprise an encyclopedia of Photoshop.
I have only a few complaints. First, part of the reason this book is so gigantic is that the author seems never to say in five words what is possible to say in ten. He spends half a page explaining that his office has been painted a neutral grey so his color perception won't be tilted. His sentences are clumsy. The publisher should have provided a good editor who would have cut the page count in half. Second, although the volume is nicely printed and produced, paper media cannot capture the subtleties one sees on a computer display. So, some of the side-by-side illustrations will leave you scratching your head to see the difference. Third, although both PC and Mac versions are discussed, the author is an Adobe man and barely mentions non-Adobe products such as Aperture.
Bottom line; serious PS users both amateur and professional will want this on the bookshelf. Just don't let it fall on your head!
Evening's Best version yet (2010-09-01)Halfway through this book and I can't say enough great things about it. I am a photographer and illustrator. I've skipped some CS versions but finally hunkered down and purchased CS5 for the Illustrator's upgrades. I carefully looked over all the books as it starts adding up $$$ buying both the PS and Illustrator books. If you are a serious photographer this is the book to get. Kelby's are fun for quick and easy references but to understand the changes and upgrades of CS5 PS and CS5 Camera Raw this is the bible.
Pros for me: Evening must have a graphic design background as the book is beautifully laid out, chapters are color-coded, Mac/PC shortcuts are color-coded as well and easy to follow, plenty of space for tips in the margins, wonderful white space for notes, and beautiful sample images.
Although Evening is a British photographer, lucky for me, a large percent of the Camera RAW chapter images are pictures of the US Southwest. As a native, many of my images are similar and have the same complex image problems; tons of color saturation, difficult fore and background highlight/shadows and contrast issues. I also do studio portrait work and he addresses both issues throughout the book. Cons. Non yet.
There is enough technology/science background for the photo-nerd, but clearly written for the non-tech photographer. No meandering stories (Margulis), no "ha-ha" stupid funny (Kelby), just straightforward information about Photoshop CS5 and Camera Raw for the Photographer and with these many Adobe upgrades, pace of life and busy photo and illustration work...that's all I want anymore.
Very Good! (2010-08-20)This book is very good, it really add up to my knowledge on Photoshop.
It is not for beginners, though, it assumes you already have some knowledge in Photoshop, if you are upgrading from another version, its a very good book.
I already had the version for CS4, which was also very good, but this book is a good investment if you upgraded to CS5, it is helping me a lot to explore better all the amazing potential of Photoshop CS5 for my photography.
I highly recommend it.
More Information with less effort (2010-07-26)This is a book with more than 740 pages, very small letters. This means that for those who want to quickly but efficiently operate CS5, even coming from prior versions, reading will become extremely tiring after a while. More yet, there is no doubt that Photoshop has enormous amount of options, ways of doing things, but the reality is that unless you spend hours every day working with this software, what you really need is some "killing tips" literature, presented in a mild environment. This is a heavy book to read, to store in mind, although very professional. As far as I can see, to date, no books released based on desirable profile submitted above. Jennifer Smith, Scott Kelby (with less sense of humor) and even the standard "Adobe Class Room" should be more advisable for those who want to benefit the max, with a compatible time & effort.
all you wanted to know about CS5 (2010-07-23)I've been using Adobe Photoshop for many years and this book opens areas that I did not know existed as well as explaining in detail those that I thought I knew. I recommend this book to anyone wanting a serious understanding of CS5.
Authors: Barbara London, Jim Stone
This is a new book, modeled after the long-running and widely used Short Course in Photography, which presents the medium entirely in its current, electronic form. In additional to covering the basic techniques of photography, this text covers the impact of computers on this important art form. Including information on how to transfer your pictures to a computer and make sure they are organized and safe from loss and how to best use computer software to make your photographs look their best.
Wonderful Textbook/Book For Beginners (2010-03-23)I used this book for my intro to Digital Photography class and love it. You learn basic techniques using a DSLR, the way that a camera works and finish the book knowing which settings to choose and WHY. The text also gives an mini-lesson on how to mat and frame.
Clear and very Informative (2010-02-22)I have been working on teaching myself how to better utilize my DSLR camera and this book has come in very handy. Lots of comparative pictures and clear writing.
Too Basic For Most (2010-02-18)I bought this book because it was recommended for a class I am taking. I don't know why a book like this was recommended to experienced photographers. If you're new to DSLR and have a need to learn the basics including aperture, shutter speed, exposure than this book is for you but for any photographer with at least a basic knowledge of DSLR photography this book is a waste of time.
Useful resource for serious instruction (2010-01-31)The London-Stone book A Short Course in Digital Photography is an excellent example of a seriously refined book for the beginning photographer. In an age when so many photography books attempt to avoid obvious and critical links to analog photography precedents, the authors safely navigate the student from the crucial examples of the past into contemporary practice. The references to traditional photography, or whatever one may wish to call film, are valuable for students of any age and any background. Also, by introducing Lightroom and Aperture, but not trying the impossible task to cover them completely, the authors encourage further research into more advanced program guides. Indeed, this is an excellent all-around short course book.
The Only Digital Photography book I need (2010-01-29)I first came upon this book at my local library. Having perused the insides, I decided to get my own copy. Clear and concise, tons of visuals and clarification for some of us no-brainers who relate to graphics and diagrams over pages of mind-boggling dry text. This is basically a text book I guess, the reason for the high price. Anything to improve my art, hence, well worth the expense, and I do love my photography. I have a half dozen digital photography books on my shelf, but this will be my go-to book. Overall, an excellent first guide for digital photographers.
Authors: Scott Kelby
In this book, author Scott Kelby tackles the most important side of of digital photography--how to take pro-quality shots using the same tricks today s top digital pros use (and it s easier than you d think). This isn t a book of theory - full of confusing jargon and detailed concepts. This is a book of which button to push, which setting to use, when to use them, and nearly two hundred of the most closely guarded photographic tricks of the trade to get you shooting dramatically better-looking, sharper, more colorful, more professional-looking photos with your digital camera every time you press the shutter button. Another thing that makes this book different is that each page covers just one trick, just one single concept that makes your photography better. Every time you turn the page, you ll learn another pro setting, another pro tool, another pro trick to transform your work from snapshots into gallery prints. So if you re tired of taking shots that look OK, and if youre tired of looking in photography magazines and thinking, Why don t my shots look like that? then this is the book for you.
A Practical Guide (2010-09-03)This is a more professional digital "step-by-step" photography compared to the Dummy series. I was looking for a straight forward approach to successfully using my digital camera and not an academic point of reference. This book tells you directly what to do and how to avoid mistakes. If you want to "understand" the why and why not than a college course would be a good alternative.
Love it... (2010-09-01)To be honest, I've had this book in my collection for quite some time and hadn't read it yet. After reading the reviews about Mr Kelby's 'poor attempt' at humor, I thought I should read it. I will be honest....I LOVED IT! Not only is there so much great info on photography, but the humor was a relief from alot of the 'stuffy' photography books out there. This was the first photography book that had me laughing and gave me straight forward tips and tricks on making better photos. I have already ordered the rest of the series and am looking forward to any future books. Mr. Kelby, if you read this, keep your sense of humor in the books!!!
Great idea for those starting out. (2010-08-23)Pros: Good read (very entertaining); you will take better pictures; easy to understand (not too technical)
Cons: I wish it had exif data for all the pictures instead of just the last 10 or so; geared toward Canon/Nikon users but still works for all DSLRs.
Excellent! (2010-08-11)An excellent introduction to those looking to learn how to use their camera and is applicable for those with a SLR or a point and click. The books do become a bit redundant if you buy the series, however while he tends to repeat himself on occasion from book to book, it is likely for those that only buy one of his series. So for you out there only looking to buy one of his books your in luck however I would highly recommend the series.
Excellent Photography Quick Reference (2010-08-11)As a long-time "prosumer" experienced with film, point and shoot, and dSLR photography, I highly recommend this series. I noticed that the reviewers who do not like the book still think the advice is worthwhile. Kelby's books are full of brief, easy-to-understand tips that will help you capture phenomenal photos. What I really like is that you get quick information on the settings required for a specific type of shoot (i.e. sports, fireworks, landscape, etc.). If you are new to digital photography and need to learn the basics, start with the "Digital Photography for Dummies" and then get this book.
Authors: Elaine Weinmann, Peter Lourekas
This best-selling guide from authors Elaine Weinmann and Peter Lourekas has been the go-to tutorial and reference book for photography/design professionals and the textbook of choice in college classrooms for decades.
This fully updated edition includes: concise, step-by-step instructions; hundreds of carefully edited full color photographs; screen captures of program features; supplemental tips and sidebars; a thorough table of contents and index; and extensive cross references. New and updated Photoshop CS5 features are clearly marked with bright red stars in both the table of contents and main text.
Among the new CS5 features covered in this volume are enhancements to brushes, workspaces, copying layers, Refine Mask, Lens Correction, the Spot Healing Brush, Camera Raw, and Bridge (including the new Mini Bridge).
Pleasant surprise (2010-08-22)I like to order a Missing Manual and an easy visual start manual for each software product. I ordered this product because it said visual. I was disappointed when it care because it was not as visual as the visual brand that I usually order. However, upon glancing through the book, I found that the information is great. I probably will stick to the usual visual manuals that I order in the future, but I indeed will use this book in addition to the others.
What an overhaul (2010-07-12)I've purchased Adobe 3rd party books over the years and I'm not sure if this was the intention, but the Visual Quickstart Guide for CS5 appears to me as a complete overhaul. Beautifully laid out, easy to find stuff, and even the screen captures (which are a big part of the book) are extra large.
Just wonderful. I wonder if the other upcoming Visual Quickstart Guides are overhauls too?
Authors: Michael Freeman
Design is the single most important factor in creating a successful photograph. The ability to see the potential for a strong picture and then organize the graphic elements into an effective, compelling composition has always been one of the key skills in making photographs.
Digital photography has brought a new, exciting aspect to design - first because the instant feedback from a digital camera allows immediate appraisal and improvement; and second because image-editing tools make it possible to alter and enhance the design after the shutter has been pressed. This has had a profound effect on the way digital photographers take pictures.
The Photographer's Eye shows how anyone can develop the ability to see and shoot great digital photographs. The book explores all the traditional approaches to composition and design, but crucially, it also addresses the new digital technique of shooting in the knowledge that a picture will later be edited, manipulated, or montaged to result in a final image that may be very different from the one seen in the viewfinder.
Features
*Covers both traditional in-camera composition and the new opportunities for picture-making made possible by digital imaging editing
*Shows how to explore situations and locations in order to find the best possible photographic possibilities
*Uses clear examples from real photographic assignments, with schematic illustrations of how and why the pictures work
I was somewhat reluctant to buy this book (2010-08-31)A main theme of the reviews, both positive and negative, seemed to point out that Freeman is a difficult read. But if you are really interested in composition from the photographer's perspective and push onward, you will begin to pay more attention to the content and less to the author's tone.
Some of the sections are very technical, like the "Golden Section" and "Fibonacci Series". But photography is a visual art and most of the book is about general artistic principles and design with exampled photos. I think people will get the most from the book by reading a few sections, then going out and taking a LOT of pictures to put the newly learned principle into practice. Just read and shoot....read and shoot.
Great photographer (2010-08-25)But terrible writer. Treat this book as a photo book and ignore the writing. Some of these pictures are genuinely amazing but the same can't be said for his writing.
be prepared (2010-07-30)I found it difficult to keep in this book. There is a sentence or two with very useful information if you can find those gems within the vast sea of art history and famous quotes. One random example from the book (p86) "Under what circumstances is it useful to try to impose a triangular structure? It is important to see implied triangles as one of a few devices for bringing order to an image, or of arranging the things being photographed. The occasions when such organization is needed are usually those when there is a need for clarity. This is a common in still life photography and in various forms of reportage when the most important thing is to make a clear representation of something, often in a visually untidy setting. As this is a common condition in professional photography, the idea of structuring an image in a simple graphic arrangement is principally professional." ....the preceding represents one of easier paragraphs to read in the book. I found myself skipping many paragraphs due to the abstract thoughts that didn't seem to pertain, quotes or the history lesson on the particular topic at hand.
Given that, there is still good information if you can stick with it long enough to glean some of the knowledge. This is my second book (purchased simultaneously) by Mr. Freeman and I might be hard pressed to purchase another- simply due to his presentation of the material.
Not for use on a Kindle 2 - Color graphics on PC (2010-07-03)KINDLE REVIEW: The writing style is somewhat drawn-out, but OK once you get use to his style. However the graphic elements are dreadful on a Kindle 2. I was ready to see if I could return it, until I viewed in on Kindle for PC. It turns out the graphics are in COLOR and of reasonable quality. Much is lost with the Kindle grayscale conversion.
I'll keep the e-book, but only view it on a PC. The Kindle DX may display better.
Great book, poor Kindle quality on iPad (2010-06-26)Anyone who's into photography knows how important it is to be able to see a good quality of the image that is being discussed. The Kindle edition of this book robbed me from that particular side of the learning process: most of the pictures are such poor quality, I have hard time making sence of them.
Someone might tell me, "That's what samples are for". Yes, I did get the sample first but thought, "Well, it's a sample; the real thing will have proper picture quality". Wrong!
Great disappointment, Kindle team.
Authors: Bryan Peterson
For serious amateur photographers who already shoot perfectly focused, accurately exposed images but want to be more creative with a camera, heres the book to consult. More than seventy techniques, both popular and less-familiar approaches, are covered in detail, including advanced exposure, bounced flash and candlelight, infrared, multiple images, soft-focus effects, unusual vantage points, zooming, and other carefully chosen ways to enhance photographs. The A-Z format make sit easy for readers to find a specific technique, and each one is explained in jargon-free language. Top Tips for each technique help readers achieve superb results, even on the first attempt.
Um.....no (2010-08-29)If your brand new to serious photography and want good, solid, quick tips on shooting better THIS WEEKEND go for "The Digital Photography 1,2,and 3 books. Good info quickly given..(a bit of crappy humor mixed in but oh well)..If you want a wordy graphic novel about exposure then here you go.
I'm the odd man out here I guess but this book, "A must read" I'm told...did me no good!
This guy has some great video's...watch those and save some time.
great to get started! (2010-08-19)I am new to photography and needed something to get me started. This book was great. Peterson gives great easy to remember tips and techniques. I have read much of this information online but it was never explained in the manner that he explains it in. He uses helpful analogies that really make the concepts easy to grasp. I would highly recommend this book for any beginner/intermediate photographer.
Wish I had read it years ago! (2010-08-09)This is a great book. I wish I had read this years ago. The author took complex information and explained it in a way that is much easier to understand. Some sections take a little more concentration and applied learning to really achieve a full understanding. The average person should be able to take this book and gain a great deal of knowledge. I highly recommend this book.
Must Read for Beginners! (2010-07-19)I'm currently enrolled in my first basic (digital) photography class at my local art institution. After my first class I realized that photography is much more scientific than I thought! I decided to get this book hoping that it facilitate my learning. It totally did! Peterson's writing style is consistent, clear and easy to read without comprimising his obvious expertise. He writes as if he is teaching you verbally in a real class. The ordering of the material feels a natural flow. Not to mention the fabulous examples he provides with his own images. (I especially love how he provides the actual metadata for EVERY image which is very helpful for future reference). Great book...highly recommend!
Go a little deeper in Exposure....and enjoy the author's evident Love for image making. (2010-07-10)So, you know you use a larger aperture for a shorter depth of field. And you know large apertures have small numbers. But would you like to know why that is? Do you already know? If, indeed, you know these basic principles but not 'why' they exist, then you remind me of me, and I think you'll like this book. The photos are great, the book dimensions show them off well, and the descriptions are fantastic. It's not a dry, dull technical book...not does it overdo the, um, humor (ahem, Scott Kelby....). But it makes exposure make sense of a deeper level. Of course, if you don't an know aperture from a hand grenade, you'll probably like this, too. But, you don't have to be 'that clueless' to get something from this book. For me, it's reinforcing things I already know and helping me understand them a little more...and inviting me to really use my knowledge. The author evidently loves to shoot, and that enthusiasm is infectious. Don't worry that's it's too easy or too hard for you; just read it. I think it's been around forever...and books that stay in print that long tend to do so for a reason. (Recommended for film and digital, I will add that I am reading the revised edition, 2004, and am delighted that there is more information on digital than I expected. I do remain curious about the upcoming August 2010 edition, though.)
Authors: Scott Kelby
Scott Kelby, the man who changed the "digital darkroom" forever with his groundbreaking, #1 bestselling, award-winning book The Photoshop Book for Digital Photographers, shows which button to push, which setting to use, when to use them and hundreds of the most closely guarded photographic "tricks of the trade" to get budding photographers shooting dramatically better-looking, sharper, more colorful, more professional-looking photos with their digital camera every time they press the shutter button.Scott tackles the most important side of digital photography--how to take pro-quality shots using the same tricks today's top digital pros use (and it's easier than you'd think). Each chapter is packed with plain English tips on using flash, shooting close up photography, travel photography, shooting people and even how to build a studio from scratch, where he demystifies the process so anyone can start taking pro-quality portraits today! Plus, he's got full chapters on his most requested topics, including loads of tips for landscape photographers, wedding photographers and there's an entire chapter devoted to sharing some of the pro's secrets for making your photos look more professional, no matter what you're shooting.
Digital Photography Guide for ANYONE (2010-09-03)I purchased the three book set of Digital Photography by Scott Kelby. Book 1 is written in plain language, without a lot of technical terms that make you feel like a dummy. He explains how to get most any kind of shot you want, with helpful hints to guide you along. The other books are a bit more complicated, but I am able to understand and love all his advice.
The Digital Photography Book set (2010-08-25)I found Scott Kelby's book to be as I expected it to be and more. I plan on getting more of his books soon. Dan B
Start your Digital Photography right with these books. (2010-08-20)I am glad I picked up his 3 volumes and read them all. I am an novice when it comes to taking pictures. I love the format of the book and how Scott presents the information by topics. As I read through vol 2 and then 3, each book has the same lay out in term of topics. But progressively each book delve deeper into more technical aspect of each topic. I appreciate his clear and concise teaching along with the humor at the beginning of each chapter. This is definitely a keeper on my bookshelf. I always check back certain topics before going out to take more photography. It really helps me improving my picture taking skills. If you are a beginner like me, buy the books. You won't regret it.
Must have photography books for DSLR users! (2010-08-01)This series of books for anybody that has purchased a DSLR camera (or even have experience and just want to learn more). The style it is written in makes it easy to cut through the technical aspects of the camera and simply take great pictures. Rather than confuse you with details and the author focuses on what you should do to take better pictures with specific examples and advice for the types of photo you are taking. For a book on a technical subject it is easy to read and understand. In addition to the use of the camera there is good advice on composition and lighting. These concepts will help the beginner go from the world of blah photos to more interesting and professional looking shots that will make people say "wow". I dig these books and highly recommend them. Also, the concepts shared are not specific to any brand of camera, although there is a bit more information specific to Nikon and Canon DSLR's.
Digital Photography for Basic and Advanced (2010-07-10)Definitely this box set is excellent for not only beginners but who is looking to take better pictures, even with point and shot digital cameras. I use a Nikon D5000 camera with 18-55mm and 70-300mm lenses and the results are getting better day by day. Each chapter of the books is dedicated to each situation you may have (landscapes, indoors, child pictures, weeding, flashes...), besides the recommended lenses and camera adjustments for each scenario.
Authors: Martin Evening
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom was designed from the ground up with digital photographers in mind, offering powerful editing features in a streamlined interface that lets photographers import, sort, and organize images. This completely updated bestseller, The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 Book, was also written with photographers in mind. Author Martin Evening describes features in Lightroom 3 in detail from a photographer’s perspective. As an established commercial and fashion photographer, Martin knows firsthand what photographers need for an efficient workflow. He has also been working with Lightroom from the beginning, monitoring the product’s development and providing valued feedback to Adobe. As a result, Martin knows the software inside and out, from image selection to image editing to image management. In this book you’ll learn how to:
• Work efficiently with images shot in the raw or JPEG format
• Import photographs with ease and sort them according to your workflow
• Create and manage a personal image library
• Apply tonal adjustments to multiple images quickly
• Integrate Lightroom with Adobe Photoshop
• Export images for print or Web as digital contact sheets or personal portfolios
• Make the most of new features in Lightroom 3, such as automatic lens correction and improved noise reduction
Photographers will find Lightroom 3âand The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 Bookâindispensable tools in their digital darkrooms.
“With Martin’s expert guidance, you’ll soon find that you have precisely the tools you need to turn your concentration back where it belongsâon making better pictures!”
âGeorge Jardine, Lightroom instructor
“As a photographer himself, Martin Evening knows what tools photographers need to realize their creative vision. In this book, he shows not only how Adobe Photoshop Lightroom works but also why it will become an essential part of any photographer’s workflow.”
âGreg Gorman, photographer
This book’s companion site, www.thelightroombook.com, offers video tutorials, articles, sample images, and updates from author Martin Evening.
Lightroom 3 Book (2010-08-28)I installed the program in my computer but have not use it yet. I haven't had a chance to read the book. My reason of purchasing the book is to learn how to convert my raw images to jpg and to learn how to correct some of my images, like adjusting lights, noices, skin tone and sharpness.
Adam
Salvation for a new user (2010-08-15)This book is an incredible value. I'd purchased Lightroom 3 to replace my Photoshop Elements 7, and I was completely lost trying to do anything. While I'm still no expert, I can work confidently in Lightroom 3 now, without feeling like I'm always on the edge of a disaster. As other folks have pointed out, this isn't a "hand holding" book. The writing is clear, coverage is thorough, and a lot of detail on "why", rather than "move slider to 75". I have more Lightroom books, but this is by far the best.
Comprehensive treatment (2010-08-10)I buy Evening's books on Lightroom and Photoshop every time a new edition of either product comes out. His books are encyclopedic and sometimes you get more than you need or want which can be confusing. Scott Kelby's books are better as an introduction, and he covers most of the essential stuff in a much more digestible way. Still I return to Evening's book sometimes for a more detailed view. It's a useful book, but more than the average Lightroom user needs, or, I suspect, wants.
Good, but technical (2010-08-02)Martin Evenings Lightroom books are excellent sources of information, but they are not for the easily intimidated. The books, including this one, are very technical but accessible. They are not a step by step, here's how this is done type of book. This is a reference for those who want to truly understand what is going on in the program and want to learn not only the how but the why of things. If you're familiar with the program and want to understand what you're doing, then I highly recommend this book. If you just want to be told how to do things in a step by step format, then Scott Kelby's book might be more to your liking.
This is THE Lightroom Reference Book (2010-07-30)Looking at the half dozen or so reviews I currently see in the review pages for this book, I'd have to say that I agree with them all. Unequivocally, this is neither a quick 'how to' book, nor is it for 'Dummies', 'Idiots' or other time challenged people. What you do get is a superb description of what and why, as well as the how. I found this to be a little bit frustrating initially (when you want to get something done in software, you want to get it done, now, don't you) but I soon came to appreciate the depth and knowledge afforded by Martin Evening's expertise. Yes, it's harder work, but it's probably more fulfilling for all of that. If you do need a quick guide, rather than a reference, then this book may not be for you, but if you can invest more time, then you will be rewarded with the knowledge of one of the great experts in the field. I can understand why this book may not fulfil some people's needs, but I can't see this book as anything other than a true 5 stars.
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