Although I’ve only worked with Canon SLR cameras I love how Scott Kelby provides advice applicable to both Nikons and Canons in his book,  The Digital Photography Book, but best of all, all the tips are transferable to any level of photographer and camera.

Kelby has worked with many professional photographers and provides basic principles to reach the next level with humor embedded in his lessons to keep his readers remembering.

There are some Photoshop tips offered in the book; however, the emphasis is geared towards getting the best shot possible thus minimizing any additional post editing to the pictures.

Getting the results that you like can be tricky, but photography should be enjoyable and fun.  Kelby says that not every shot will be perfect, but that’s all part of the learning process.  Hey it’s digital right?  Snap, snap, view, and if you like you can keep it, if not then delete it.

Without a doubt this book is a great recommendation for those budding photographers out there.  After reading this book you won’t be disappointed.  It might even inspire you to read his second and third volumes.

I recently attended a presentation by author David V. Herlihy, talking about his new book, The Lost Cyclist: The Epic Tale of an American Adventurer and His Mysterious Disappearance. Last Saturday, at Willow Glen, the author revealed the fascinating story of Frank Lenz, an avid cyclist and photographer, who dreamed of circling the globe on a bicycle in the 1890's. His struggle to find a sponsor and his failure to find a companion cyclist did not daunt him; he decided to go it alone. Lenz planned his solo trek across America, China, the Near East, and Europe, following the setting sun while lugging approximately 50 pounds of camera equipment. He nearly succeeded, making it all the way into Turkey before he vanished as completely as Amelia Earhart would thirty years later. The amazing photos Lenz took along the way are a fascinating glimpse into a world rarely seen. I can't wait to read the book!

Lately I've been noticing new acquisitions to our 'oversized' book collection or what I like to call "Coffee table books".  One that especially caught my eye is Vanity Fair, The Portraits: A Century of Iconic Images.  Inside you will find 95 years of beautifully commissioned photography for Vanity Fair. 

This collection showcases the talents of Edward Steichen, Omogen Cunningham, Annie Liebovitz, Mario Testino, David LaChapelle and Bruce Weber to name a few.  There is a wide range of subjects including writers, athletes, musicians, and actors.  Sit back, relax and enjoy the skillful work on display here!