15 Jun The Business of Photography: Book Recommendations
The summer is almost here and the internet is abuzz with the best reads for the beach!
My stack of books is ready to make it’s way to Cape Cod for our summer holiday in July. Amongst my pile are always a few photography titles. Reading books written by photographers and business savvy individuals are a way to push your knowledge further; lighting, composition, marketing and creativity. There are so many incredible books available to read and many inspiring and valuable people to learn from.
Here are ten books that have found a home on my shelves to help get your started on your beach reading!
Just starting out:
This book was the first in my collection five years ago. If you are looking for a solid explanation of the basics, Bryan Peterson, would be a great start. I have read this book (and most of his others) numerous times each. It never hurts to return to the basics once in awhile even if you have been photographing for a long time.
“Understanding Exposure” by Bryan Peterson
Lighting:
There are numerous books to talk about in this category but here are three excellent choices. These books do a fantastic job breaking down the use of flash, natural and studio lighting and also provide incredible inspiration at the same time.
“The Luminous Portrait” by Elizabeth Messina
“The Moment It Clicks” by Joe McNally
“Photographing Shadow and Light” by Joey L
People of Interest:
What made these books fascinating reads were the stories behind the camera and the look into the lives of these great artists whom I love and admire.
“Vivian Maier Out of the Shadows” by Richard Cahan and Michael Williams (I met up with two of my photography friends when the Vivian Maier exhibit opened in Toronto and happened to be there when the author of this book arrived…autograph, photos and a chance to speak with Richard Cahan!)
“At Work” by Annie Leibovitz
“Looking at Ansel Adams: The Photographs and the Man” by Andrea G. Stillman
“In Our Times The World As Seen by Magnum Photographers” by William Manchester
Business and Marketing:
I am an enormous “fan”and admirier of David DuChemin. I was introduced to his work and writing in my first year of business. I have eaten up all of his advice and well earned experience since. Not only do these books provide sound business concepts but they ignite your photographic soul. They make me excited to be a photographer all over again.
“Vision Mongers” by David DuChemin
“Within the Frame” by David DuChemin
“A Beautiful Anarchy” by David DuChemin (This book has just been released and mine is in the mail!)
This completes my first list of recommendations. I know there are hundreds of books out there that have helped and touched us all along the way.
As I pulled each of these books off of my shelves I had to laugh at the book, “Within the Frame”. The remnants of being well read by a pool were clear as the pages mimicked the small waves of the water. That made me smile.
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