Rating: 
Summary: Excellent reference for beginner to pro!
Review: This book covers the basics to well written explanations for even the intermediate or pro. Illustrations accompany the text well and aid in the explanation and understanding of various techniques and methods. I use this book as a reference for everything from setting up a darkroom more effectively to printing to more creative applications! A must-have for any photographers library!
Rating:
Summary: Everything you need to know
Review: This book has been around for a while, in many different printings. Every time I see it in a used bookstore I buy it, so I will have it on hand to give to the next person who asks me about photography.This book has everything you need to know about photography, from discussing the various types of cameras to lighting and metering techniques to how to develop and print your own film. It is well organized and easy to understand. It is written so a beginner will have no trouble with it, but with enough information to get you to a pretty advanced stage. What more could you ask for?
Rating:
Summary: You'll never need another how-to book
Review: This book may have a hefty price, but it is well worth it. I purchased it originally just for photo class, but it is the best book that I could have bought. There is everything photographers could ever want to know, and it grows with you. If you are a beginner, then just start slowly with the first few chapters that guide you through cameras, film, and developing and then progress to more complicated things. I recommend this book to every photographer because it is a wonderful reference book for any questions you have.
Rating:
Summary: required reading
Review: This book was required for my photography course, and it was definitely worth the price. If you college students out there are required to buy a different book, buy this one instead--not only will you get a better grade than everyone else, but you will most definitely learn much more.
Rating: 
Summary: Rating the seller
Review: This book was said to have some highlighting!As is does, I purchased it used and just received it in the mail. Shipping was fast,BUT the seller NEVER mentioned the book also has water damage to the corners causing the book to lift and be stiff. I am NOT happy with this seller and would not trust their description on anything they sell used. The book I would rate as a good beginners book and has lots of information for the beginner. Would also be a good book to keep around for reference. We can all use a reminder now and then.
Rating:
Summary: inspiring for beginners
Review: This books inspires beginners with the fine selection of images showing just what is possible with photography. It is also a highly readable introduction to the jargon and hardware of the craft. Don't deceive yourself that this is more than an introduction, though.
Rating: 
Summary: Complete Photography, but change the size of the book.
Review: This is a definite "must have" for the serious amateur. Whether you're just getting serious in photography and are looking for a crash course, or have been at it awhile and want to learn some of the more technical aspects, this is the book for you. Some of the things covered include cameras, lenses, exposure, film, and darkroom. The index is well done and makes using this book as a reference easy; there are lots of good photos that illustrate what's being explained. (What would be the point in buying a photography book without lots of photos, after all??) This is the book that got me started, and I can't imagine not having it. My only complaint, if I have to have one, is that I can't seem to keep it on my shelf -- all my friends are always wanting to borrow it!
Rating:
Summary: Cornerstone of a serious amateur photographer's collection
Review: This is a definite "must have" for the serious amateur. Whether you're just getting serious in photography and are looking for a crash course, or have been at it awhile and want to learn some of the more technical aspects, this is the book for you. Some of the things covered include cameras, lenses, exposure, film, and darkroom. The index is well done and makes using this book as a reference easy; there are lots of good photos that illustrate what's being explained. (What would be the point in buying a photography book without lots of photos, after all??) This is the book that got me started, and I can't imagine not having it. My only complaint, if I have to have one, is that I can't seem to keep it on my shelf -- all my friends are always wanting to borrow it!
Rating:
Summary: Excellent reference guide & teacher, but expensive
Review: This is a fantastic book that has something for beginners and advanced amateurs alike. I bought this book for my photography class at Temple University, and it will happily be on my bookshelf and referenced for a long time (or perhaps until the 8th or 9th edition)? The book contains many useful lessons for beginners, if that is your level, for basic photography. I would have liked for there to be more about digital photography though, but I'm sure that will come in later editions as that medium evolves. There is also plenty to offer a budding photographer about lessons in the darkroom, and that was very useful and continues to be. This is the ultimate photography book that will more than get a beginner started, or be a big help as a refresher to an amateur. However, the price is a tremendous drawback - it's a lot of bang, but for the bucks you pay, I'd try getting a used copy - there are many great dealers on Amazon that can help. This book is well worth owning though. It misses the 5-star mark because of cost.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent textbook for those starting out
Review: This is a great book for amateurs who want to understand how photography works. The textbook format is well laid out and organized. It has chapters that cover everything from how the camera works and different lens characteristics to developing and criticizing your own work. I don't think it will be much use for experienced and pro photographers but it might come in handy to freshen up on your photo knowledge.
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