Customer Reviews for John Shaw's Nature Photography Field Guide

John Shaw's Nature Photography Field Guide
by John Shaw

John Shaw's Nature Photography Field Guide List Price: $24.99
Our Price: $12.59
You Save: $12.40 (50%)
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Buy Used: from $4.76 (click here)
Category: Book
See more book details and other editions


(Click here)

Book Reviews of John Shaw's Nature Photography Field Guide

Book Review: The book that has become my mentor....
Summary: 5 Stars

Since getting into photography about three years ago; I have read a dozen books that supposedly taught me exposure, aperture, shutter speeds; in other words the fundamental basics of all photography. This book is the only one that actually made me see what everyone else was awkwardly trying to say. I don't know John Shaw's work or if he is even a decent photographer but I can tell you if you need a mentor in this art we call photography; buy this book, curl up and prepare to open your eyes to the building blocks of all photographers. I refer back to this book every couple of months and I am always surprised at how much I still learn from this one simple book. When we start off in photography many of us think we're a great photographer, but I am just now beginning to learn why some pictures are great and what will enable me to take my pictures from privately loved to accepted greatness! Thanks John Shaw for all your work, it has truely helped me!

Book Review: Old-School Techniques from the Master
Summary: 5 Stars

Comprehensive, detailed, and pragmatic, John Shaw's field guide, after many years in print, is still a must for every nature photography enthusiast.

Digital photographers: be forewarned that a lot of this material is a bit dated. However, it's really easy to skim the occasional references to film.

This field guide is really like a school-in-a-book. We're talking old-school technique, especially with regard to exposure. What's more, John teaches you everything you need to know about composition, and provides many sections filled with practical guidelines - stuff that will help you a great deal when preparing for a trip or when shooting out in the field.

And here is the kicker: the proof is in the pudding. John's photos speak for themselves. He's a master photographer and every aspiring nature-lover should have a copy of this book on his or her bookshelf.

Book Review: John Shaw's Nature Photography: Plain Excellent
Summary: 5 Stars

I have been reading a ton of photography books lately. So far, this is by far the best.

From equipment to composition, Mr. Shaw thouroughly covers his area, and then some. The sections on selecting and using cameras and equipment were as good as, or better than, other guides I have read. The sections on composition were also excellent.

There are two bonuses in this book. One: Mr. Shaw can write clearly, even entertainingly. His explanations are understandable by both beginners and those who have grown up with cameras. It is a sad truth, but expertise with cameras rarely translates into english. It does here.

The second bonus is the photography. Absolutely first rate. It illustrates the techniques and the creativity of the photographer. Each picture is accompanied with an adequate description of lens, camera and film.

I recommend this book for anyone interested in photography, period.


Book Review: My First Photography Book
Summary: 5 Stars

I knew how to focus, point, and shoot, but I didn't know aperture, f-stop, shutter speed, exposure values, film speed or how these things could affect the pictures I take. Just after the first chapter, I understood more about my camera and the purpose of all of its options (and I'm using a Sony digital Mavica). John Shaw takes the time to explain what you need to know without getting too technical. And all of his many incredible photos throughout the book include descriptive captions of how he took the photo. Each photo emphasizes the point he is making.

This book was excellent for me as a beginner and includes many techniques for outdoor photography. I enjoy the humourous tone, particularly when explaining technical points.

The images are fantastic. Even if you don't read it, the book makes an excellent coffee table addition!


Book Review: Excellent, very thorough nature guide
Summary: 5 Stars

The information provided on exposure alone is worth the price of admission as it were. Personally I use a Pentax Pz-1p and have no problem with the discussions when he refers to Nikon or Canon, admittedly the Pz-1p doesn't have mirror lockup (the MZ-S, and the *ist do) but I manage just fine! The book is very thorough in both technical and artistic considerations and I have seen a definite improvement in my photos since using it (although i shoot print and never have shot slides and that just goes to show the power of this book) I would go further to say that while all of Mr Shaw books are great if you had to pick just one this should be it. I would also advise those now getting into SLR photography that before you buy a camera buy this (or borrow it from a library) and read the section on buying a camera system, very useful!!
More Customer Reviews:
First Review 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11