Quiet Light

Rating:
Summary: Remarkable B&W photographs
Review: John Sexton is a master--but you already knew that. His photographs show both a deep technical understanding of the medium and an eye for visualization that I envy even more. Every time I open Quiet Light I want to rush out with my 4x5. That is; after I've turned the last page of this magnificent book. If you practice the Zone System, this volume is a must. If you do not, this book will make you want to. If you enjoy looking at photographs that make the hair on the back of your neck stand on end, this book is for you too.

Rating:
Summary: Remarkable B&W photographs
Review: John Sexton is a master--but you already knew that. His photographs show both a deeptechnical understanding of the medium and an eye for visualization that I envy even more. Every time I open Quiet Light I want to rush out with my 4x5. That is; after I've turned the last page of this magnificent book. If you practice the Zone System, this volume is a must. If you do not, this book will make you want to. If you enjoy looking at photographs that make the hair on the back of your neck stand on end, this book is for you too.

Rating:
Summary: Lovely Large-Format Book of John Sexton's Earlier Works
Review: Quiet Light is a large format book (12x13 inches) containing 51 duotone plates of John Sexton's photographs taken 1974-1988. The title refers to the naturally "quiet light" of dawn and sunset which provided the illumination for the photographs within. The photographs are mostly of the natural world and range in perspective from close-ups of plants to sweeping landscapes. Some of the photographs are excellent, some mediocre, but the collection really conveys a specific mood and gives the viewer a strong sense of the style and themes of John Sexton's work during this period of time.

The quality of the paper is very good. It is difficult for me to comment on the quality of the reproductions because I haven't seen the original prints of any of them. In looking at the plates closely, it seems to me that some shadow detail has probably been lost. That always seems to be the case in fine arts photography books.

I particularly appreciate the technical information that Mr. Sexton thoughtfully provides toward the back of the book. The type of camera, lens, filters, film, exposure, and development information are given for every photograph. This will answer all of those "how did he get that shot" questions that every photographer, casual or pro, will inevitably ask himself/herself.

A worthy addition to any collection of nature photography or fine arts black-and-white books. A great introduction to John Sexton's work. A nice synopsis of his work from this period.... And a fine choice of adornment for your coffee table as well.

Rating:
Summary: Black and white photography at its best.
Review: Quiet Light is a spectacular book of black and white photographs. The images are superb and the reproduction is extremely well done. "Quiet light" refers to the very soft light found before sunrise and after sunset. Such light requires long exposure and special technique. Sexton masters this. The book is a "must" for anyone who appreciates fine art black and white photography.

Rating:
Summary: adding to the body of photographic images
Review: what is unique about his work...beyond the technical expertise...is the newness of the work....most of the images avoid the cliches and thus fill a void in large format photograhpy...which has a tendency to become repetitive...many of the images are totally new to me, i think he did some work in finding unique material