Take Your Photography to the Next Level: From Inspiration to Image by George Barr
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Book Reviews of Take Your Photography to the Next Level: From Inspiration to Image
Book Review: Outstanding
Summary: 5 Stars
Take Your Photography to the Next Level: From Inspiration to Image, by George Barr, is a collection of the most helpful postings from his blog over the past few years. I rank this book right up there with the works of Bryan Peterson in terms of it's importance to photographers in general. In fact, I would declare this a must read.
Mr. Barr has taken the liberty (well advised in my mind) of editing his prior posts so that they are more current or relevant for this book. I had never heard of him before, but the author is very impressive in terms of how he is able to "see" a great photo in what seem like ordinary or common objects. I do believe that, in the course of my learning to take better pictures, this is the hardest thing to do.
One of the more impressive things about this book is how the editor, author, and Rocky Nook were able to take the blog postings and meld them into a cohesive book. It follows a fairly structured order, and includes excellent photographic examples along the way. I also particularly like how the author intentionally stayed away from mentioning specific settings and (most of the time) gear used to make certain images. In a few sections of the book, it is pointed out clearly that it is the person taking the photos that is more important than the gear being used, and I agree completely (he does cover the gear he uses at the back of the book).
One other very useful sections is how to deal with rejection and criticism and the whole mindset of taking pictures. I know a few people that could apply the principles of that section (did I mention Barr is a doctor) in their photography or other aspects of their life. Very good stuff, and just another example of how Barr is able to relate to the casual and serious photographer alike.
I could go on and on about this book, but you really should get a copy for yourself. It is outstanding!
Book Review: Not really an inspiration for me
Summary: 2 Stars
A few other reviewers have used the phrase "left me cold" and I think they couldn't have chosen a more apt expression.
The author provides no insight into his thought process in either composition or technique.
IF you like industrial "rusty and crusty" black and white photography (without meaning to denigrate this genre; after all, many people do enjoy this kind of thing), then you might enjoy the photos in this book and, who knows, maybe they'll inspire you. Don't count on the words to help though, even if this type of photography is your cup of tea.
I really regret buying this book.
Book Review: Sorry I wasted my money
Summary: 1 Stars
I did not see a single image that I thought "I wish I had taken that". I think this book is a waste of money.Book Review: Enhance your understanding on photography
Summary: 5 Stars
I like the way of George's writing on photography, especially this books does not cover the technical stuffs like F-stop, shutter speed and etc. I like particularly on the explanation of some images may not take as intentionally. We may not think of the possible emotional impact that may create but certainly we conclude that the picture taken will suit your photograhic requirement, at least.
I'm half way digesting what George leads me to explore the possibility on photography. Good reference and writing indeed.
Book Review: Very good book overall
Summary: 4 Stars
The review by A. Ilachinski says it all! This book is not about cameras, post-processing software, filters or tripods, it is about SUBJECTIVITY in photography. And it subjectivity, not equipment that makes great images. Sections such as "what is the image about", "It's been done before" or "Initial disapointment" (among other interesting topics) are rare enough in photography books to be worth mentioning.
The writing is pleasant and easy to follow. Images are excellent (although not all equal), and the page layout is very nice, with text corresponding to images on the same page. Very good job by both the author and the editor. (By the way, as a side note to Rocky Nook editions, why using heavy chunky hard cover and size for books The Photograph: Composition & Color Design and The Art of Black and White Photography: Techniques for Creating Superb Images in a Digital Workflow rather than keeping the very nice paperback format/layout used for G. Barr's book?)
If one wants to quibble a little bit, images in G. Barr's book are almost exclusively still/landscape, which might not suit all readers. Text sometimes sound a little bit pretentious (not annoyingly though). Also, it would have been nice to show the pictures of the "great masters" mentioned as examples in the text because some readers might not have them in mind at time of reading.
I don't know if I am a better photographer since I have read this book. Probably not. This book needs to be processed on the long term. Read it. Come back to it later. And as time goes on, it will very likely change your way of seeing, composing... which might possibly lead to better pictures!