· 2015
Aimed at beginners, Foundation Course: Black & White Photography is part of a structured series of tutorials that explain the basic skills and techniques of photography in relation to a specific subject area. Written by experts, each book is divided into six main sections: Basics, Lessons, Revision, Project, Analysis and Progress. This chapter explains the concept of photography in a concise, easy-to-follow manner. There's information on the types of camera, lenses, tripods, filters and other useful accessories; the basics of exposure, metering, aperture and shutter speed, ISO, dynamic range, histograms, exposure compensation and using filters. There's also information on colour and composition, including the effects of light, the effects of colour on the perception of a photograph, plus how this changes when shooting black and white.
· 2025
Mastering Composition is a comprehensive guide to the secrets behind great photographic composition. Fully updated to include the latest technologies and software, Mastering Composition is the definitive guide for taking great photos, considering visual weight, balance, negative space, and depth. Author and professional photographer Richard Garvey-Williams argues that success lies in a combination of four elements: an impactful subject; dynamic composition; effective use of lighting; and, perhaps the most crucial, an ability to invoke an emotional response in the viewer. Citing examples gleaned from a study of history (the Ancient Greeks' Golden Rule, Fibonacci's mathematical ratio, and the principles known as Gestalt theory) the author analyses the concepts, rules and guidelines that define successful composition in photography and offers practical guidance to achieving great results. In clear, concise and jargon-free text he also considers the role of tone and color in good composition and offers invaluable tips and the tools to help the photographer take control of the creative process. The book is illustrated with examples of the author's own beautiful nature photography, along with diagrams and notation to explain techniques most clearly. A final chapter in this definitive guide for all serious photographers discusses photography and its relationship to art before offering a considered conclusion to the exploration of this fascinating topic.