Digital Photography - A Basic Manual

This is an interesting book from Henry Horenstein. It's unusual. It's a book about the basics, like f/stops… as a technical introduction to photography. It's not like the “… for dummies”. This reminds me of a text book, it's structured, just like a course. It's not just for dSLRs but most of the book also applies to point and shoot cameras.

I like the “plain” English. The photos are excellent and are appropriate to the topic that they illustrate. My minor nit-pick would be to have more explanations/clarifications about the photo and how they relates to the topic. An advanced photographer will see it, or maybe it's the job of the teacher.

My favorite chapter is the chapter on lighting:

1. Look over the screen
2. Determine if there's enough light
3. Decide if you like the characteristics of the subject lighting
4. If using the flash… In autoflash mode… In manual flash mode…
5. If circumstances allow, bring stodio light
6. Take your picture
   
   Tip: take it now or take it later…
   — Digital Photography - A Basic Manual by Henry Horenstein

His quote, my emphasis. It's a manual but even for me it's a reminder of what I sometimes forget to do. How many times have I insisted on taking the photo now when the light is not right and I could have come back for it? Too many times because I forgot the tip: “take it now or take it later.”

Who is this book for?

1. People who want to have some reference or learn about photography in a more structured way.
2. Professional and advanced photographers who need to prepare lectures or teach people at a photo club, at an evening presentation…

I give this book a big thumb up for being able to mix both the “manual” part of the book with common sense without being dry.