Written by a professional photographer and lecturer and instructor, and someone who is also clearly knowledgeable about plants, Macro Photography is a very informative publication. The term "macro" in this instance is taken at is loosest to encompass close-up photography as well as true macro. The book is divided into seven main sections which include an introduction to macro photography, the equipment needed, how to look at images, a section entitled `Realistic or Artistic?' and sections on photographing flora and fauna, digital files and handling. There is also a list of resources, a glossary and an index.
The book sets out to reach both the experienced photographer and the novice, and here I feel it succeeds. The writer, having moved from traditional film photography to digital does well in explaining the differences and how this should affect ones approach. I found this particularly useful having myself been schooled, and schooled others, in the days of film photography. The technical aspects of macro photography are covered quite extensively and very clearly, and all are well illustrated by the superb pictures which accompany the text; a useful point here is that in addition to the coverage in the text each photograph is accompanied by its own explanation along with details of camera, lens and settings used.
Of course when it comes to the more subjective area of "artistic" photography there is the possibility of disagreement. Yet the advice given here is sound, although there was the occasional point I would not always agree with; but that is only to be expected when one moves into such areas, and of course each is able to make his own decision, again the excellent pictures here can help one to decide. For example, where a blossom is too large to be in focus from front to back, Detrick suggests ensuring that the perimeter or outer edge is in sharp focus; the centre or closest part of the flower then being out of focus (pp74-75, Allium blossom). The theory being that the viewer notices the perimeter first and so decides that the picture is in focus. However the accompanying pictures used to illustrate the point I feel suggest the reverse; I find the blurred centre of the bloom worrying. I do not doubt that Detrick's theory works in principle, but maybe it just goes to show that there is no definite solution to every situation. Whatever one decides, the benefit of this book is that pictures tell the story, whichever way one wants to read it.
Even as an experienced photographer I found this a most useful book; every aspect is adequately covered from advice on the equipment, how to use and get the best out of it, and how to compose, light and shoot the pictures. The possibilities of what can be done with photo editing software are also mentioned, but not discussed in detail. I am sure that whatever the level of knowledge the reader, one is bound to find this a very useful publication. Well illustrated with over 160 good size colour photographs. Macro Photography for Gardeners and Nature Lovers: The Essential Guide to Digital Techniques
Having read many books on macro photography I found Mr. Detrick's approach both accessible and artistic. Too often instructors include merely the technical, without touching on what motivates their choices. In this book we are given not only the "how to" but the "why you might want to." Mr. Detrick considers the aesthetic as well as the technical, the result being that the reader is inspired to experiment with her or his own artistic vision, having been given the tools with which to work. The best book I've read on this subject, by far.
This is the first macro book that makes sense to me. The images are inspirational. I also really like the fact that the author's thinking behind the images is included along with the technical data. It gives some human insight into the compositions that is missing in many other publications. I believe this is a fine, very useful guide and reference for any photographer who is interested in doing, or wanting to do close-up nature photography. Easily five stars for a rating
I've done a lot of digital photography with a SLR, but so far don't own a macro lens. This book makes me realize that I'll be able to create images that I long for with Detrick's techniques; a new lens will be the only item on my birthday wish list.
I love the way the author both describes his thought processes and shows several images of the same subject shot in different ways. Side by side you see not just the good one and the bad one, but even better, two great images with different goals in mind.
I have just completed reading and enjoying one of the most outstanding books on digital techniques in macro photography. "Macro Photography for Gardeners and Nature Lovers" by Alan L. Detrick can be used as a reference book for both professionals and hobbiests. The remarkable photographs and excellent accompanying text display the insight and knowledge of Mr. Detrick's years of involvement in nature photography. His knowledge and skill shine through this magnificent publication, with sharp eyed instructional text alongside each photo. One is aware that the best efforts were made in preparing this book. - Nature Photography - Digital Photography - Photography - Flowers'
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