Better Photo Basics

I figure what better time to read and review a book about photography than right after I take a class about learning how to use my Digital SLR camera... Because now I know everything (insert dripping sarcasm here).

Some may see this review and think "What does photography have to do with crafting?" My first thought is what better way to personalize almost any craft than by using photos! As you experiment with adding more photos to your crafts, why not learn how to take better photos!?

If you are new to photography, this book is great for you. This book starts from the "absolute beginning" by showing you "how to point, shoot, and have fun", and I must agree with the author, Jim Moitke's, description. You will be guided through everything from choosing a camera to using all of the different settings to take amazing pictures.

If you are like me, and just took a wonderful class and think you know everything, this book is also for you. The author not only helps you learn more about all of the different functions on your camera, but also how to customize all the different functions. My favorite part of this book? Step 3 (the content in the book is presented in Steps, not chapters). The title of Step 3 is Twenty Popular Photo Assignments. While my first thought way "I don't need anyone to tell me what to take pictures of", I changed my mind after browsing through this section. The author present the assignments with a list of directions, additional suggestions, and tips. This is a great section to not only practice taking pictures to improve your skills, but also for inspiration for when you are in the mood to take pictures but just don't know what to take a picture of.

The different topics covered in this book include an introduction to your camera's modes; easy tips you can use to instantly improve your photos: how to master light and experiment with aperture, shutter speed, and focal length; and how to fix not-so-perfect pictures using your computer. Besides the section (Step 3) full of 20 photo assignments, you will also find a section (Step 6) full of picture taking ideas to help you practice more creative photography techniques.

One of the first things I usually check out before I read any how-to type book is to flip to the back. I might be weird, but I love checking out all of the additional resources usually offered in the appendix. This book offers a nice collection! Not only will you find the usual list of online resources and a glossary of photo terms used, but you will find a camera buyer's guide and a handy chart of common camera icons and what they mean. My favorite part of this section though is the glossary of all of the photos presented throughout the book that shares the camera settings and lens used to take each individual picture.

I am so glad I have an over-sized camera bag because I think I will keep the book in it. I plan on working my way through each and the Twenty Popular Photo Assignments and then some!