I have always been able to promote ‘causes’ with passion when I believe in them. However, I confess I feel really awkward when trumpeting any personal venture – I was programmed as a small child ‘not to boast’.
However, that is not the way of the world these days so:
….Ladies and Gentlemen let me introduce you to my latest book issued in time for a Christmas wish list. A real hold in the hand, turn the pages kind of book….
Digital Close-up Photography Q&A
The world of the close-up and even...closer
- Paperback: 144 pages
- Publisher: Lark;
- Language English
- ISBN-10: 1600598994
- ISBN-13: 978-1600598999
- Product Dimensions: 25.1 x 21.3 x 1.3 cm
RRP: £14.99 but available for £12.74 on Amazon
NB it does not seem to be released yet in the UK but it is obtainable from
Please don’t be put off by a Question & Answer format – I know that 101 of this, 2001 that and endless ‘best of’ lists are guaranteed to shout TRIVIA to some people. However, A great deal of time and effort went into assuring that this book does not commit that sin.
The challenge for me was to make questions valid and content as full and detailed as I could within the limit of 144 profusely illustrated pages. Working with editor Kevin Kopp, one of the best around, at publishers Lark / Pixiq was a huge bonus in attempting to achieve that.
I have tried to include basic material in a way that is accessible whilst not patronising the reader and then there is a great deal for the enthusiast and even the ‘pro’. Many books glue on the word DIGITAL to a book on close-up-cum macro just as a sales tool.
Basics - clear, unambiguous: what you need to know
This book is unashamedly digital, deals with cameras of all types BUT most important explores the potential of your digital camera in a way you won’t find elsewhere….such things as wide-angle close-ups, insects in flight, white backgrounds, using water drops as lenses, image-stacking and much, much more. Everything I could think of, in fact, to help readers exploit their capabilities and get create stunning imagery.
The basics - clear, unambiguous information: just what you need
My intention has to bring you the ideas and techniques so that you can go on to make them your own…this is stuff I love, it is what I have worked on for decades in books articles and courses – and it is not finished yet. So, if you’ve enjoyed my posts on this blog and on Pixiq order a copy
no compromises - the necessary theory you need to get complete control
The material is slanted towards the natural world where I find most of my subjects and underlying it all is the need to care for the things around you. The joy of discovery close to home is evident everywhere. To make this as complete as possible I have also prepared spreads on how I use Lightroom for tweaking of images as quickly and effectively as possible…well; we all want to get back outside taking photos, don’t we ?
subjects of all sorts...with a tale to tell
Paul,
I wonder, with your previous post in mind if this jewel will come as an e-book as well
After downloading and looking at Photographer’s i (haven’t read it yet), I think the sky is the limit for these kind of how-to-books.
Erwin
Buongiorno Erwin,
I am not sure what the prognosis is for the book as it stands with the publisher for things have changed there of late. A top notch, imaginative in-house designer who is at home in this area is central and that is what the Photographer’s -i has in Graham Davis.
I feel as you do about the Photographers -i magazine. I felt an absurd level of excitement when I saw what could be done and how with a commentary, video, moving illustrations it created an experience where information could be imparted painlessly.
The contribution I was asked to provide for that magazine represented a kind of ‘Rubicon’ for me in that I don’t think I will write/illustrate a conventional book again…not that I do not love books (I type this in a room where the walls are insulated with books…) but as an ‘educator’ by disposition – some kind folk have said I am able to ‘demystify’ (code for cannot stand BS) I can see immense possibilities and capacity for personal fulfilment.
In fact, Clay and I have been mulling over ideas exchanging copy and learning, in fact, what the capabilities are. Our first ebook on Wide-angle close-up a passion we share is being put together… its just that we are both pernickety types who need to get it right! And Clay is a superb designer – I know saying that will embarrass him, but it has to be said!
Maybe we can create a model that others who write on this blog in various ways can also employ… it is very much a collaborative effort and we shall keep readers informed.
best for now
Paul
Congrats Paul! I know that this was a long time coming and I wish you much success with it. You’ll undoubtedly be inspiring a new generation of little Clay Bolts with this one. That’s actually a scary thought, but good luck anyway!
And thanks for the nice compliment! For our Wide Angle book I’ll be featuring loads of photos coming out of starbursts!
Clay
Congratulations Paul – I know how much work you’ve put into this. It looks great, and I’ll be ordering a copy.
I’ve also just been looking at the first issue of photographers-i – it’s well presented, and well written. I do like the digital format, and easy layout.
Take care….
Hello Paul
What’s wrong with plugging yourself.
Congratulations on the book, looks really nice.
Danny
Paul
Congratulations on the book.
I tried to purchase a copy today from Amazon but they seem to say that it is only available for pre-order although one independent retailer appears to have the book in stock?
Look forward to the book on wide angle close up.
Best wishes
Andrew
Thanks Andrew – I do not understand marketing by publishers. One would think they would want to sell books. I know its out in the US….
Thanks Danny – the self promotion bit shows my age! But when needs must one does…
Thank’s Diane…good to hear from you.
The people behind Photographer’s i are genuinely innovative: I really hope it will catch on. It was good fun doing what I did with them and I hope it leads to more.
best
Paul
This looks like an excellent book Paul, I’m sure I could learn a thing or two from it!
Matt
I see this book is now available on Amazon UK: is there a referral link you would like to be used?