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35 Best Photography Books in 2024 (Updated)

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Can’t find reliable content on the internet? Then you should try reading photography books by famous professionals! Photography books are still the best way to improve your photography skills. And they also give you a huge amount of inspiration.

Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs is our favorite photography book. It’s the ultimate how-to photography guide that dives into techniques, styles, and practical tips. Buying this book is the first step to becoming a better photographer.

Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs

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Finding the Best Photography Books

There are so many amazing photography books out there it can be hard to find what you’re looking for. There are photography books to learn about the art form’s history. There are photo books to help you with your composition. And there are also ones to inspire you from some of the photography greats!

We have every type of photography book there is. So the list is fairly extensive. But we’ve broken it down so you can find the photography book you need. Click on a link below to skip to the section you want.

Best Books on Photography Basics

Best books on composition and technique, best books on photography lighting, best niche photography books, best collection and compilation books, best post-processing photography books.

Learning how to take amazing pictures requires a strong foundation of the basics. If you struggle with these areas, read publications on the basics of photography . I assure you that you’ll learn much faster.

photography project book

Here’s a quick look at the best books on photography basics. We’ll take a more detailed look at each book in the section after.

  • Great entry-point for new photographers
  • Full of practical guides for easy learning
  • Playful language anyone can understand
  • One of the most popular photography guide books
  • Specific chapters on portrait, sports, and wedding photography
  • A helpful book if you're looking to make money in photography
  • Takes a deep dive into all aspects of digital photography
  • Everything is covered, from camera basics to photo editing
  • A rich recourse even experienced photographers can use

Mastering Photography: From Beginner to Pro

  • Career-focused objective from the outset
  • Well-explained, practical guidance to help you master your camera
  • The author's wealth of experience give the words heft

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  • A complete and comprehensive study of photography
  • Teaches techniques and skills with suggestions for equipment
  • Chapters on editing and organizing your photos

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  • Awe-inspiring illustrations throughout the book
  • Well-explained tutorials for absolute beginners
  • A perfect choice for younger photographers

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  • Great explanations on different cameras and how to get the most out of them
  • Fantastic illustrations with the settings used to capture them
  • Written by one of LIFE's most prominent photographers

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  • One of the most popular photography books for beginners
  • Gives you a technical foundation from which you can flourish
  • Author has a personal and easy-to-follow style of writing

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  • Teaches you how to express yourself through photography
  • New dedicated chapters on digital photography
  • A beneficial read for anyone interested in the visual arts

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  • Helps you see history through the lens of a camera
  • Explores the cultural impact of the camera
  • An interesting read for any history buff

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  • A timeless classic that still holds up
  • Helps you understand how context can change a photo's meaning
  • It'll take your image-making in a new direction

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1. Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs

Are you looking for the best photography how-to books for beginners? Then Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs is worth checking out. It has practical guides, easy-to-read text, and simple, playful language. So it’s easy to follow for a beginner.

This book offers an excellent foundation to improve as a photographer. It puts beginners on the fast track to better photography results. And even experienced photographers will find useful information in its pages. The book’s title might be in-your-face, but it’s not wrong.

And the book includes tips from 50 famous photographers !

2. The Digital Photography Book

The Digital Photography Book from Scott Kelby is the number-one, best-selling digital photography book ever. And that’s for good reason. It has been translated into dozens of languages. And it remains one of the most comprehensive photography books you can find.

You can find everything in this book that you would need to get into photography. There are chapters on portrait photography . You can learn how to use a flash for pro results. And it even gives you a head start on wedding and sports photography .

This award-winning book is a great companion. You will take it from your shelf again and again to reread it. It’s essential reading for anyone serious about picking up a digital camera.

3. Complete Digital Photography

If you like to go deep into the fine details of the craft, then Complete Digital Photography is for you. Written by photographer Ben Long, it teaches you all the basics of photography. This book shows you everything from the mechanics of a camera to post-processing.

It covers both the technical aspects and the art of taking photos. With the level of detail and the number of topics this book covers, you won’t even need Google!

Ben Long’s book gives beginners a thorough introduction to digital photography. But it’s such a rich resource, so all digital photographers should take a look. There’s so much to learn in these pages.

4. Learning to See

Learning to See is for you if you want insider information from a seasoned professional. David Molnar is a professional at the top of the photography industry. His client list includes Pepsi, Sony, and Google. And his photos have appeared in People Magazine and the New York Times .

Molnar takes you through the basics of photography. You’ll learn how to use your camera and a range of photography techniques. But it’s all geared around making photography a career . It’s serious stuff. But it’s easy to follow and understandable for photographers at any level.

Buying this book is an investment for your photography career. And you’ll definitely see a positive return. Expert advice doesn’t get much more expert than this.

5. Langford’s Basic Photography

Langford’s Basic Photography is for people who want to pursue photography as a career. Some might find it academic. But it’s one of the most comprehensive photography books for beginners.

This publication is valuable because it helps you choose the best camera and lens for your work. It even offers useful suggestions about the equipment you need for great lighting . Of course, it teaches you skills such as framing and measuring exposure.

But apart from the technical aspects, it also teaches you how to edit and organize your images. It teaches you how to print , finish, and present your photographs. This is one of the best books on photography to help you jump start your professional work.

6. National Geographic Photo Basics

National Geographic magazine has been a source of inspiration for photographers for decades. Flip through the pages of any edition, and you’ll be itching to pick up your camera. But if you’re a beginner, you might not know how to achieve the best results.

National Geographic Photo Basics inspires with its stunning photographs. And it also teaches you photography basics, so you can create images that are just as breathtaking. You don’t even need a camera to read this book. The early chapters help you choose a camera that’s right for you.

Then they take you through the early stages of photography. It’s a fast track to competency with your camera. And it puts you on a path to creating glorious images like those found in the book.

7. LIFE Guide to Digital Photography

Learn from one of the best photo books about photography on the market. The subtitle of the LIFE Guide to Digital Photography — Everything You Need to Shoot Like the Pros— pretty much sums it up.

Joe explains how to take advantage of what your camera does best. He also helps you understand when it is wise to outthink your camera and push it to its limits.

What I found useful was the short caption under each photo . It shows you the camera settings it took to create each image. Knowing which settings he uses to recreate breathtaking photos is always beneficial.

8. Understanding Exposure 4th Edition

With more than 350,000 copies sold, Understanding Exposure 4th Edition is one of the most popular books in photography. It demystifies the complex concepts of exposure for countless photographers.

This photography book maintains Bryan Peterson’s trademark easy-to-understand style. Its best section includes how to achieve successful exposures in challenging situations. You’ll also find information on white balance , flash , and HDR in this photography book.

Sure, these topics may seem a bit advanced. But Peterson makes it all easy to understand. And you can always take this along with you for better photos anytime, anywhere, and with any camera.

9. The Art of Photography

Bruce Barnbaum’s The Art of Photography was originally published in 1994 and was first revised in 2010. And the 2017 edition has dedicated chapters on digital photography.

It represents and explores the more artistic and conceptual sides of photography . And it helps you develop your artistic voice as a photographer. It features 200 color and black and white photos accompanied by easily readable text.

Anyone interested in the visual arts should read this book. It benefits graphic designers, cinematographers, and even painters.

10. Photography

Mary Warner Marien’s Photography offers a fascinating account of how photography has altered our perception of the world. She shows us history through the lens of a camera. It’s a gripping account. And the illustrations are spectacular!

This book is easy to understand as you don’t need any technical knowledge. And it’s not just for photographers. Any history buff will be gripped and excited by this photography book.

It aims to educate and inform us about photography. It gives information about photography and photographers within their historical and cultural contexts.

11. On Photography

Susan Sontag’s On Photography was first published in 1977. It is one of the most-read books about photography. And it remains an evergreen book for photographers. On Photography contains essays about the changing meaning of photography and photographs.

She examines the role photography plays in different circumstances. But most importantly, she looks at the impact of photography on us and the world. It’s a book for anyone interested in image-making.

It’s a seminal piece of work everyone should read. It’s eye-opening, educational, and inspiring.

Once you know what you’re doing, the next step is to hone those skills. The secret is to learn what makes photos great. Then you make a goal to replicate that in your own photos.

I’ve learned a lot from the books on this list. What these publications teach can be a lot of information to take in at once. But when you master the techniques, your photos will improve dramatically!

Extraordinary Everyday Photography: Awaken Your Vision to Create Stunning Images Wherever You Are

  • A great book for photographers of all levels
  • Teaches you how to create dynamic pictures everywhere
  • The techniques can be used with any camera including smartphones

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  • Expert advice from a master of landscape photography
  • Useful for landscape photographers at all skill levels
  • A blend of technical and conceptual advice for better landscapes

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  • Helps you achieve the best results in any location
  • Tells you how to achieve studio results when working on location
  • A great book for portrait, fashion, and product photographers

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  • Chock full of portrait inspiration
  • Broadens your mind for more creative portraiture
  • Portrait, fashion, and even boudoir photographers will learn a lot

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  • Packed with practical and conceptual advice
  • Helps sharpen your vision as a photographer
  • Easy-to-follow writing style

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  • Improves your composition with eye-opening ideas
  • Helps you find your visual voice
  • Gives tips on avoiding photography clichés

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  • Full of McNally's iconic photography work
  • True expert advice from an industry insider
  • Practical advice that's explained well and easy to read

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  • Ideal for black and white photo enthusiasts
  • Breaks down the key elements of B&W photography
  • Excellent bold and dynamic photography examples

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1. Extraordinary Everyday Photography

Photography is not just taking pictures of staged portraits and exotic travel destinations . Photography is looking at simple things with a new perspective.

Extraordinary Everyday Photography teaches you to capture the unexpected in the mundane. It can be your local park or the street where you live.

Rather than teach photography techniques, the photo book inspires photographers. It includes examples from DSLRs and smartphone cameras . It shows that good photography doesn’t depend on gear or location. Instead, it depends on the photographer’s eye.

2. The Landscape Photography Book

Here’s another book from the award-winning photographer and author Scott Kelby. It’s a must-read if you’re interested in landscape photography or plan to start shooting landscapes.

But you don’t have to be a beginner to find new ideas and tips in The Landscape Photography Book . You’ll learn new skills, improve your composition , and sharpen your vision.

3. Studio Anywhere

It can often be overwhelming to find an excellent spot to shoot. Studio Anywhere is a must-read for photographers who are unlucky in picking the perfect locations. Nick shows us how to use any less-than-ideal location and still get amazing portraits.

And he offers practical tips for creating a portfolio without a dedicated studio space. It’s perfect for anyone who needs help conceptualizing shoots with minimal equipment .

4. One Face Fifty Ways

This fabulous photography book dives into the art of taking portraits. It shows us how to take 50 different types of shots of the same model. And it’s a practical guide that takes advantage of simple camera techniques.

But do you know what makes One Face Fifty Ways even more valuable? It uses budget-friendly items from your wardrobe to create a wide variety of shots.

5. The Photographer’s Eye Remastered

Michael Freeman is on this list twice—and for good reason. I love the way he writes.

Design is the most critical factor in creating a successful photograph. It helps your ability to see the potential for a strong picture. Then you organize the graphic elements into a productive and compelling composition.

I think The Photographer’s Eye Remastered is one of the must-read photography books for beginners. Why? Because early on, it trains you to develop your visual style. And that’s unique compared to the other publications on this list.

6. The Photographer’s Mind

The nature of photography includes the demand to intrigue the viewer continually. So this book aims to answer the question, “What makes a photograph great?” It explores how top photographers achieve this goal time and time again.

The Photographer’s Mind provides invaluable knowledge you can’t learn from practical guides. For instance, it helps you avoid clichés on the cyclical nature of fashion , style, mannerisms, and light. It even shows you how to handle the unexpected.

7. The Moment it Clicks

The Moment it Clicks illustrates the different techniques Joe McNally has employed throughout his career. I’m sure you’ll recognize many of his photos from magazine covers. You’ll gain insight into how each shot was taken, including which equipment he used.

On top of that, you’ll also gain useful knowledge about the challenges of each type of project. This photography book is excellent if you want to set up a similar shot of your own.

8. Creative Black and White

Creative Black and White is one of the best black and white photography books ever published. Black and white photography poses unique challenges. It makes the point that contrast , lighting, and composition are crucial without color.

Renowned photographer Harold Davis explains these elements in this book. He demonstrates the basic rules of black and white photography. But more than that, he also shows you when and how to break them.

Lighting is an intrinsic component of photography. It can take years to master. And it’s more complex than getting to grips with other aspects, like exposure settings . But you can always make this process faster by learning from the pros.

Amateurs rarely achieve great lighting. But learning techniques from these great photography books is the best way to improve in that area. You’ll have professional illumination in no time!

Mastering Canon Speedlites: Crafting Light with Ease

  • Best book on working with flashes for Canon users
  • Fantastic tips and techniques for using flash lights for different effects
  • Useful for any photographer, not just Canon users

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  • Joe's experience inspires and educates
  • Tells you how to use flashes for maximum effect
  • Great tips for different low-light conditions

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  • Techniques for maximizing natural light
  • DIY tips for getting the most out of your gear
  • Helps you master a variety of lighting techniques for dramatic photos

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1. Speedliter’s Handbook

Speedliter’s Handbook is mainly for Canon camera users, but it is still useful for people who use other cameras. Most of the information can cross over to other camera brands .

This is an excellent book for those new to flash photography . Using clear language, this book is also ideal for anyone who has given up learning out of frustration.

Arena teaches you everything from creating a classical portrait to shooting an event . Whatever it is, this photography book will show you how.

2. Hot Shoe Diaries

In Hot Shoe Diaries , Joe shares his lighting solutions for a ton of beautiful images. Joe’s photographs are quite inspirational. He uses a flash every time he shoots his subjects.

Using Nikon speedlights , Joe lets you in on his uncensored thought process. He demonstrates how he makes his pictures with these small flashes.

3. Studio Anywhere 2: Hard Light

Nick Fancher’s second entry on our list— Studio Anywhere 2: Hard Light —teaches you how to master light. He gives tips and techniques on maximizing and controlling natural light . And he goes deep into using artificial light , like flashes.

He gives experienced info about lighting equipment. And he has some handy DIY tips for getting the most out of what you have. You’ll be able to shape, bounce, and manipulate light in any location. You’ll be a light master before you get to the final page!

Lots of publications focus too much on the most popular genres in photography. But what if you’re into a specific style, such as food or still-life photography ? Are there any options for you out there? The answer is yes, and there are a lot of them!

For this section, we are only covering five. But even if you don’t practice the niche topics on this list, you should still consider reading them. Who knows? You might end up liking them! Or, if anything, you might learn a thing or two that you can apply to your work.

Mastering Travel Photography: 55 Pro Tips

  • Well-structured and highly consumable information
  • Each principle is explained and illustrated well
  • Opens your eyes to new aspects in travel photography

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  • Helps you construct stronger and more dynamic images
  • Brilliant tips for improving composition
  • Illustrations include work from photography masters

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  • Teaches you about 35mm, medium format, and large format photography
  • Explains everything you need to know from loading film to printing in a dark room
  • Fantastic techniques that use digital technology to enhance your film photography

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  • The authority on building a social media brand
  • Teaches you how to take pictures for social media formats
  • Timeless advice for ever-changing tech platforms

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1. The Enthusiast’s Guide to Travel Photography

The Enthusiast’s Guide to Travel Photography is the best book to pick up before you go on your next backpacking trip. Travel photography is perhaps one of the most challenging genres in photography. A travel photographer needs to know how to photograph several niches like food and wildlife photography .

This book provides all the photo knowledge you need to trot the globe. Of course, it includes the usual lessons on architecture and urban photography . But it also includes tips on taking portraits of strangers and nighttime landscapes.

2. Still Life in Photography

Still Life in Photography isn’t necessarily a collection of tutorials. Instead, it’s a compendium of the works of some of the best still-life photographers .

The photos come from the J Paul Getty Museum, so the collection, in a sense, feels limited. But regardless, the samples you see are enough to inspire you to create your own masterpieces.

Photographers in this book include Edward Weston, Irving Penn, and Roger Fenton. They’re big names with incredible work that will get your attention!

3. The Film Photography Handbook

Film photography is back in fashion in a big way. And whether you’re a film photography veteran or a beginner, you need The Film Photography Handbook . As the title says, this is the ultimate handbook for film photography . It has all the necessary information, from loading film to printing photos.

What makes this invaluable is that it includes digital technology in the mix. Where else can you find a book that shows you how to digitize your film? It even shows you how to use your smartphone as a light meter!

4. Capture Your Style

Instagram evolves so fast that any book written about it could be useless by now. But social media star Aimee Song’s Capture Your Style is definitely an outlier.

The book was published in 2016 to massive fanfare. Years later, it remains one of the authoritative books on Instagram and influencer photography. Song teaches you the basics of taking pictures for Instagram. But she also shows you how to gain followers and become Insta-famous .

Sure, there are tons of new features on Instagram that you can’t find in this older book. But the main tenets of social media photography are still there and will remain for years. Because, in the end, taking click-worthy photos is never going to be out of fashion.

You can learn a lot by looking at other people’s photos. It’s what makes these books on photography as crucial as regular textbooks.

But it was hard to choose one photographer over another for this list. I felt I had to disregard 100 photographers for each one I included.

The photographers below are perhaps some of my ultimate idols in photography. But they are by no means the only ones I look up to.

Decade Book

  • A brilliant visual history of a momentous decade
  • Beautifully printed and well-written accounts
  • A must-have for fans of modern history

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  • A fantastic collection from an icon of American photography
  • Printed well with crisp and clear photographs
  • A personal view into 1950s America

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  • Breathtaking wildlife and natural photographs
  • Includes classic images from early NGO publications
  • Documents the lengths the photographers took to achieve these incredible photos

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  • A behind-the-lens account from a pioneer of photography
  • Illustrated with incredible black and white images
  • A personal account that helps you improve your own photography skills

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  • Includes hundreds of iconic images from the pages of LIFE
  • Features work from the finest photographers of the last century
  • A true expression of cultural history any history buff can enjoy

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  • Contains some of Capa's most memorable war images
  • Demonstrates Capa's versatility as a photographer
  • Shows the basis for modern photojournalism

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Decade was a recent birthday present, and I’ve picked it up daily since then. And it’s not difficult to understand why this is one of the best photo books.

It’s a collection of famous photos of memorable events between 2000 and 2010. And each image has a brief description that serves as a history lesson.

It jogs your memory and reminds you what a momentous decade it was. It’s a good source of inspiration. But it’s also a great coffee table book or conversation piece.

2. Robert Frank

Robert Frank is a fantastic collection of photos from the seminal photographer. He was a central figure who documented the United States in the 1950s. And he created some of the most iconic images of that era. Frank’s cultural documentation is invaluable for anyone interested in that period.

It is hard to believe his photos came from one photographer’s viewfinder. It covers racial tension, glamor , and Americans’ love for cars . The latter might be because Frank himself had a fondness for the road.

He shows a cultural history with a human touch. This book is a great reminder of America’s past through some fantastic images. This famous photographer’s inspirational work deserves to be on your bookshelf.

3. National Geographic Image Collection

Behind this title lies one of the most compelling graphic resources on Earth. I present The National Geographic Image Collection .

It’s an archive that includes a wide range of images of the earliest photos from the late 19th century to modern ones taken today. It includes both iconic and never-before-seen images from around the world.

Of course, we already know that this book represents thousands of species. But it also showcases terrific human achievements in exploration, adventure, and science. And they are placed in a historical, artistic, technical, and journalistic context.

(And if you’re into portraits, you must look at National Geographic’s book of portraits .)

4. Examples

Examples has some of the best black and white photography I’ve ever seen. Each of Adams’ 40 photographs presented here accompanies an engaging narrative . The text explores the technical and aesthetic problems of each scene he photographed.

As far as famous photographers go, Ansel Adams is at the top of the list. So grab a copy to understand what makes this one of the best photography books.

5. LIFE 70 Years of Extraordinary Photography

LIFE 70 Years of Extraordinary Photography is one of the best photography books, with over 70 years of great images. And they all come from one of the most influential magazines of the 20th century— LIFE .

This book is like Decade and National Geographic Image Collection.   LIFE 70 Years of Extraordinary Photography presents history in photos. It highlights the most famous and beautiful pictures from the magazine’s history. It has some of the best photography you will ever see.

6. Robert Capa

Robert Capa is the father of modern photojournalism . He was intrepid, brave, and had a fantastic eye for a photo. He is most well-known for his war reportage, snapping violence in the Spanish Civil War and World War II.

His shots remain some of the most famous examples of wartime. But he was more than just a war photographer. This collection shows the true breadth of his photography work. His documentary work is powerful and poignant. And you also find intimate and engaging portraits.

Capa was a true photography talent. And his photographs are still as striking as ever.

When you’ve been out taking photos all day, there are always going to be a few that need extra work. If you’re shooting in RAW , there will be a lot. So below are the best books on the three most popular post-processing software.

  • Adobe Lightroom
  • Adobe Elements
  • Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Lightroom Classic CC: The Photog’s Guide

  • A must-have for anyone using Adobe Lightroom
  • Written by one of the world's leading photographers and editors
  • The plain-English style makes it accessible for all users

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  • The most comprehensive book on Photoshop Elements
  • Handy practical tips for getting setup and organizing work
  • Detailed and thorough but understandable throughout

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  • The official Adobe workbook
  • Takes you through the basics to more advanced editing techniques
  • Valuable for anyone in the creative industries
  • The language is accessible for everyone from beginners to experienced editors

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1. The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic CC Book for Digital Photographers

As mentioned, Scott Kelby is an American photographer and the author of many books. He is an avid user and educator of Adobe Photoshop Lightroom.

In The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic CC Book for Digital Photographers , Scott did his most significant update ever in this book. He shares all his latest techniques, insights, and invaluable tips for Lightroom. His award-winning, step-by-step, plain-English style makes learning Lightroom easy and fun.

He shares his settings and time-tested techniques. It consists of proven methods of learning Lightroom. So, you can begin using it like a pro from the start.

2. Mastering Adobe Photoshop Elements 2022

Mastering Adobe Photoshop Elements 2022 is the book on how to use Adobe Photoshop Elements for photo editing. It’s thorough, detailed, and extremely well-written. Any photographer can breeze through the pages and learn as they go. It’s a great way for beginners to get a head start on photo editing with Photoshop Elements.

Nichols doesn’t only focus on editing. He has useful tips and techniques to manage your editing setup, organize your library, and develop your visual style. Adobe software can seem daunting for photographers new to photo editing. But this book is understandable and practical. It’s an investment worth making.

3. Adobe Photoshop Classroom in a Book

For beginners, Adobe Photoshop can be stressful and challenging to learn. Post-production software has a very steep learning curve. But thankfully, Andrew Faulkner and Conrad Chavez created Adobe Photoshop Classroom in a Book .

Don’t worry if the title gives you flashbacks from your school days. It’s well-written and easy to understand. It takes you through the basics. And you never feel like you’re being talked down to. Plus, all the text is accompanied by helpful illustrations. It helps you click in all the right places!

Bonus Book: Your Camera Manual!

There is so much information in your camera manual. It’s not just irrelevant facts specific to your camera. The day I got my first DSLR , I took out the manual and began reading. I must have read it while playing with my camera for two weeks.

It always frustrates me when friends don’t know how to do something on their cameras. That’s the one thing holding them back. They’d be much better photographers if they knew how to work their cameras. So I encourage you to give it a read.

Camera sitting on top of photography books

These days, you can find everything you need about photography online. But nothing compares to flipping the pages and viewing printed pictures. So go ahead and pick up a book. You’ll learn, develop, and find inspiration.

Read This if You Want to Take Great Photographs is our favorite photography book. Any photographer can pick it up and learn something new… And that’s true of all the photography books on our list. There are hundreds of amazing photography books. But these 35 are the best photography books right now!

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13 Photography Project Ideas for Photographers of Any Level

Do you want to sharpen your skills, learn fresh techniques and/or create a displayable body of work? Take a look at these great photography project ideas.

Learn | By Ana Mireles

Are you looking for photography project ideas? Then you’re in the right place.

If you’re like me, you’ll agree that photo projects are a great way to stay motivated and grow as a photographer.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, an amateur or a professional, projects help you to focus and develop your skills.

If you’ve never done a photo project, I start by explaining what it is and why you should consider doing one.

Then, I’ll give you some examples from famous and talented artists so you can get inspired.

Once you’re as pumped about projects as I am, I’ll give you some ideas to get you started – there’s something for every level!

Table of Contents

What Are Photography Projects?

photography project book

Credit: George Milton

Photography projects are creative enterprises that you plan and execute through photographs.

In other words, a photography project is a series of images you create around an idea or a concept. All the pictures of the project have a coherent style and technique.

You can do photography projects at any skill level and all types of photography . So, it doesn’t matter if you do food photography or street photos. You can still develop a project.

Photography projects aren’t related to duration, the number of images, or camera equipment. You can decide on the specifics of your own photography project as you see fit.

  • What are the best photography games?

Why Do a Photography Project?

There are many advantages to doing photography projects. One of the main ones is that it helps you stay motivated and focused.

If you photograph without purpose or idea, it’s more likely that you’ll lose interest. When you don’t have a project, you might have time to pick up your camera and waste most of it just trying to decide what to do.

Instead, you can get right to work if you have some photography project ideas. Also, you’ll have goals to keep you photographing until you’ve completed them.

Another good reason to shoot photography projects is that it makes it easier to improve your photography skills.

As you know, practice makes perfect. If you shoot single images all the time, you won’t dedicate enough time and practice to each skill to actually grow. It also makes it more challenging to see the improvement because you won’t have anything to compare.

Photography projects aren’t just beneficial to improve your technical skills . They’re also helpful in developing a creative style and advancing your storytelling techniques.

  • Fun photo challenge ideas to try

6 Famous Photography Projects

When looking for creative photography project ideas, it’s helpful to see what professional photographers are doing. Here are a few famous projects that might be of help.

1. Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton

photography project book

Brandon Stanton started this photo project back in 2010. His idea was to create a catalogue of NY city inhabitants by taking 10,000 street portraits. He also included quotes or a short story from each person he photographed.

His photography project became a blog that quickly reached millions of followers on social media. Later, it was published as a book.

The Humans of New York photography project grew, and it now contains sub-projects called Stories. He’s made a series about Pediatric Cancer, Syrian Americans, and others. These have been published too.

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Stanton’s idea expanded to more than 40 countries. This project is now simply called Humans as it transcends nationality and borders. It talks about the shared experience of being a human.

  • A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an Inspiring Photo Journal

2. My Breast Choice by Aniela McGuinness

photography project book

Aniela McGuinness is an actress diagnosed with breast cancer three days before having a preventive double mastectomy. This was only a year and a half after she lost her mother to ovarian cancer.

She decided to start the project My Breast Choice to show how cancer and chemo impact the body and soul of women.

She teamed up with a photographer to create a series and capture her process. She also made a lifestyle blog and a YouTube channel.

Through these multiple media channels, she uses humour to raise awareness, help women dealing with these issues, and cope with what she went through.

3. Afraid to Go to School by Sodiq Adelakun Adekola.

photography project book

This photography project won in the Stories category for the Africa region of the World Press Photo. In Nigeria, children are often kidnapped from schools. Usually, they are girls that are then forced into marriages.

In this series, the photographer witnessed and documented the victims’ families.

4. One Year Performance 1908-1981 (Time Clock Piece) by Tehching Hsieh.

Nowadays, we’re constantly taking selfies. Some people use them as a photography project idea and take selfies every day, every week, or every birthday.

Way before this hype, Tehching Hsieh did a photography experiment which was much more extreme. He took a self-portrait every day for an entire year.

This means that he would also wake up every hour each night to keep the project going. It’s worth mentioning that he’s known for his year-long performances.

5. Subway Love by Araki.

Araki is one of the most prolific photographers today. He’s done countless photography projects, which usually publishes as books.

Subway Love is one of his longest projects. Throughout ten years (almost), he photographed strangers that rode the subway with him on his way to and from his work in Tokyo.

6. Untitled Film Stills by Cindy Sherman.

photography project book

Cindy Sherman is famous for her photography projects where she questions identity, stereotypes, gender and sexuality, etc.

In Untitled Film Stills, she did over 70 black and white pictures that seemed to be still taken from 1950s films. She is the model on each one – however, they aren’t self-portraits. In every photograph, she embodies a different persona.

How to Come Up With the Photography Project That’s Best for You

Your passions are the first and most important thing to consider when choosing photography project ideas. This is the best way to enjoy and stick with the project – doing it about something that excites you.

Another consideration you should take is your equipment. It’s good to be ambitious, but you also need to be realistic.

If your photography project idea involves resources you don’t have, it will quickly become an excuse to postpone the project.

Of course, you can always buy or rent the required equipment, but just do it if you can afford it.

The same concept applies to your availability. So, choose a subject that’s easily available to you. Also, determine the duration of the project and the number of photos according to your other commitments.

If you can only dedicate a few hours to photography, choose a project that doesn’t require a full day.

If you’re into wildlife photography, choose a subject you can find in your area instead of waiting for your next vacation to go on a photo safari.

The idea is that you set yourself attainable goals. It’s perfect if you can drop everything and dedicate full time to your photography project. However, this isn’t easy, and most people have to start slower.

In whichever scenario you’re in, it’s still possible to do a photography project. Let’s see some ideas to get you started.

  • How to Pitch Photography Projects to Agencies

4 Photography Project Ideas for Beginners

Not all photography project ideas must be complex and result in a masterpiece. There are tons of projects you can do as a beginner.

These photography project ideas for beginners will help you to get acquainted with your camera, develop technical skills, and incorporate photography into your everyday life.

Idea 1: Everyday Objects

photography project book

Credit: Engin Akyurt

The great thing about this project is that you don’t have to buy anything – you can use whatever you have around you.

Start by choosing an object. You can use a different one every time you do the project, which can be every weekend or once a month – it’s up to you.

Anyhow, choose this object and come up with different creative photography ideas for it. You can photograph it with different lenses, lighting, and camera settings . This will help you to learn and practice technical skills.

Otherwise, you can explore the object in a creative way. Come up with different stories around the object.

To capture unique images, you can place your object in different scenarios. You may also think about everything the object represents.

Let’s use an apple as an example. You can associate it with the poisoned apple of Snow White, the one from Adam and Eve, or the apple of discord from Greek mythology.

You can check out the work of Chema Madoz if you’re into fine art photography . For more commercial work, check out the stunning images of Dina Belenko. These authors will surely get you inspired.

Idea 2: 365 days project

photography project book

Credit: Tobi

As you can imagine, the 365 days project involves taking at least one photo daily. This is one of the most common creative photography project ideas.

You can find many lists online with 365 photo challenges. This way, you don’t have to waste time thinking about what to do. It also encourages you to step out of your comfort zone, as you don’t get to pick what to do.

Another way to do it is to create your own 365 days project. This way, you can focus on a specific subject or technique you’re interested in learning and perfecting. Doing this allows you to see how you grow as a photographer with time and practice.

A good subject for 365 days could be something that changes with time, such as a tree.

Another project idea is to focus on a specific type of photography, such as crystal ball photography or steel wool photography.

Otherwise, you can use a specific technique, such as capturing light trails or motion blur .

Idea 3: Self-portraits

photography project book

Credit: Pixabay

A self-portrait photo challenge is excellent to practice photographing people. Not only can you practice the photographic side of it, but also the modelling side.

Most photographers struggle with posing people or conveying to their models what they need. So, being your model will help you to develop those skills too.

There are endless creative photography techniques you can try around this project. You can start with simple things like an outdoor portrait.

As you improve, you can move on to more complicated things, such as double exposure.

  • Self portrait photography ideas and tips
  • How to take photos of yourself when alone

Idea 4: Night photography

photography project book

Credit: Aleksandar Pasaric

Night photography is more complex than shooting during the daytime. That’s why it’s the ideal photo project if you want to push yourself.

It will help you to master the basics of camera exposure. This is because you’ll have to learn how to use a slow shutter speed without getting motion blur.

This is not just about a moving subject but about you causing camera shake. This is also related to the focal length you use. It might be necessary to use a tripod.

You’ll also learn about the relationship between ISO and noise. Sometimes, the autofocus won’t be accurate due to the dim light. So, it will also push you to work with manual focus.

Another helpful thing you can learn when shooting at night is the color temperature. You’ll notice how each type of light has a different color and how to deal with ambient light  that may include more than one.

All these technical aspects can be applied to the subject of your choice. So, you can do portraits, landscapes, and other shots that interest you while remaining within the project theme – night photography.

  • How to take portraits at night

4 Photography Project Ideas for Students

These creative photography projects aren’t just for people learning about photography. They can be helpful for all sorts of students. Photography can be a powerful tool to teach physics, optics, and other subjects.

Idea 5: Illustrate a book

photography project book

Credit: Levent Simsek

This exercise is excellent for photographers at any skill level who want to exercise their storytelling abilities.

Choose a book you like – it doesn’t matter how long it is or to what literary genre it belongs. You can use short stories, thrillers, romantic novels, etc.

Now, think about photography ideas that could illustrate each chapter or the entire book. Also, take a photograph that could be used as the book cover.

This is also useful as a high school photography project. Translating what they just read into an image or a set of images will help them isolate the story’s key moments. It will also make them engage on a different level with the book.

  • Best coffee table books of the year

Idea 6: Forced perspective

photography project book

Credit: Francesco Sgura (left) / Abdullah-Ahmad (right)

Forced perspective is a technique that creates an optical illusion. By doing this type of photography, you can make things appear bigger or smaller. Also, thanks to this manipulation, you can also alter the perception of distance.

There are many creative photography projects you can do using this technique. One of the most common examples is to photograph ‘holding’ a famous landmark in their hand.

This technique isn’t just used in photography. It’s also used in painting, sculpture, and architecture. It’s also common to see it in films – although you might not know it.

Have you seen Lord of the Rings? Peter Jackson often used forced perspective to make characters like dwarfs and hobbits look smaller than others.

Idea 7: Pinhole photography project

Making a pinhole camera and using it to capture images is a great project for students. Whether they are children, high school students, or beginner photographers – it’s a project that fits everyone.

Anyone interested in photography can use a pinhole camera to learn how pictures are done. This is because digital cameras still share the same principles of the camera obscura. Also, regular students can use it to learn how light travels or to see a solar eclipse.

You can make pinhole cameras out of cardboard boxes or a DSLR, depending on your resources. If you’re using a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, simply buy an extra body cap and drill a hole.

Then, cut a piece of aluminium foil and make a hole in it with a pin. Now, tape the aluminium foil on top of the drill hole you made on the cap.

Lastly, remove the camera lens and put this pinhole cap. This way, you can make pinhole digital images.

The traditional way of doing pinhole photographs is using a box or a tin as the camera body. The process is the same as I explained before. You can watch the above video to see all the details on constructing it.

  • 32 homemade DIY photography props

Idea 8: Photo walk

photography project book

Credit: Rafael Barros

Photo walks are small projects that can be done by any student regardless of skill level. It’s mainly about remaining focused and motivated. They’re also helpful as they teach you to see like a photographer because you’re on a ‘photo mission’.

The topic of the photo walk can be anything you want. You can use a theme such as geometric shapes or street signs – it doesn’t matter.

Another approach is to set limitations instead of a subject. For example, you can only use one lens – or one focal length in case you own a zoom lens.

You can use the same topic or limitation each time and see how it develops on a bigger scale. Otherwise, you can do different targeted themes each time. It all depends on how much you want to commit to this project.

5 Photography Project Ideas for More Advanced Photographers

Even advanced photographers can benefit from doing photography projects. This may be because they want to learn a new technique or how to use a new piece of equipment.

It may be because they want to grow their business by approaching a different type of photography. Perhaps it’s because they want to stay motivated and challenged.

Whatever the reason, these photography project ideas should be helpful.

Idea 9: Double exposure photography

photography project book

Credit: Whicdhemein One

If you’re looking for a creative photography project that requires more advanced techniques, try doing double-exposure images .

This is a technique you can do in film and digital photography. You can also choose to do it as a post-processing effect.

The idea is that two images are compound in one image. Of course, you can also combine more images – then it’s called multiple exposures.

You can centre your project on the technique. If this is the case, you can do the same subject using film, digital, and editing techniques to achieve it. You can then compare the results as well as the pros and cons of each method.

If you prefer a more creative approach, you can use this technique to convey feelings to the viewer. You can also make visual metaphors if you like symbolism.

One approach isn’t better than the other; the important thing is that you come up with photography ideas that work for you.

Idea 10: Multiple light sources

photography project book

Credit: Aleksander Dummer

Most photographers start by using natural light. Once they master it, they move on to flash and studio lighting . To understand how these work, you can think of projects that force you to use more than one light source.

Remember the first rule about finding project photography ideas – you must be passionate about the topic.

So, if you enjoy working with people, do a project for portrait light setups . If not, you can always make one about product or food photography.

  • Everything to know about photography lighting

Idea 11: Abstract photography

photography project book

Credit: Abstract

Doing an abstract photography project is a great way to push your boundaries or overcome a creative block.

Unless you’re already an abstract photographer , this photo project will force you to view and think about things differently.

It will also challenge you by presenting new limitations. Instead, it will remove some of the usual boundaries you have when you photograph things.

Shooting abstract images will also help you with your composition. You won’t be able to rely on the usual rules that guide where you put your main subject. Instead, you’ll be able to explore colors, textures, light and shadows.

As far as the subject goes, anything can be used to make abstract photography. Although, it may be challenging to find a way to make it look exciting and communicate something with it. This is because there isn’t such an obvious focal point as it would be in figurative art.

You can do this project with your equipment, which is excellent. However, you can also explore different techniques that may need specific gear.

For example, you can do macro photography. Ideally, you should use a macro lens , but there are less expensive options, like getting extension tubes. It’s also possible to reverse the camera lens.

A macro project works in abstract photography because you can isolate a detail from the surrounding scene.

Other ideas for abstract projects include a long exposure whit intentional camera movement or exploring a subject from multiple angles.

  • See also: How to do intentional camera movement photography

Idea 12: Tilt-Shift photography

photography project book

Credit: Daniel Tafjord

Photography projects for advanced photographers can be about specific gear. In this example, I’m using the tilt-shift lens . However, you can apply the same principle to any equipment you want to master. It can be a drone, a large format camera, etc.

Tilt-shift photography is when you change the orientation of the lens in relation to the camera sensor . Architecture photographers use this to correct perspective distortion. You can also use it to extend the depth of field, which is helpful in product photography , for example.

However, tilt-shift lenses aren’t just used to perfect the image – there’s also a creative use for them. You can make any city look like a scale model of itself.

Idea 13: Underwater photography

photography project book

Credit: Victoria Strelkaph

This photo project is about getting out of your comfort zone. So, if you regularly do underwater photography or can’t do it for some reason – find a different way to push your boundaries. You can do aerial photography, for example.

We’re used to thinking about underwater photographers as professional scuba divers with special equipment. However, you can do a project with more attainable ambitions.

You can do underwater photography by snorkelling or doing it in a swimming pool. You also don’t have to focus on wildlife. There are beautiful underwater projects with ballerinas or even wedding photography.

The main point of this photo project is that it’s physically challenging, it requires new skills, and it can be as documental or as creative as you want.

So, it has a bit of everything. It’s the perfect project for the advanced photographer looking to try new things.

You’ve Completed Your Photography Project. Now What?

photography project book

Credit: Mike B

Photo contests

Participating in photo contests is a great way to get your project out there. It will be seen by professionals in the photography industry, and you can confront your work with that of your peers.

Most photographic contests have categories dedicated to series or stories. The name may change, but the scope is the same – to acknowledge photographic projects.

You may also choose a single image from your project to participate in the single-image categories of a contest. This is because often the prize includes an exhibition. So, even if the judges only get to see one of them, you may get to show the entire project in the end.

You can find a list of photo contests here that we’ve selected that may interest you. You’ll also find a summary from a series of interviews Shotkit did with award-winning photographers to learn their tips on how to win.

Get your work exhibited

Getting your work out into the world is one of the biggest satisfactions after you’ve completed a photography project.

There are many ways to get your work exhibited. The most traditional is to approach galleries and see if they are interested in showing it.

Of course, getting picked up by a gallery is not an easy task. Fortunately, this isn’t the only way. You can look for open calls to participate in collaborative exhibitions.

Also, you can organize an exhibition yourself. You can approach cultural centers, photography schools , and even bars or coffee shops. They’re often happy to show work from emerging talents.

Make a photo book

Another way to distribute your photography project is by doing a photo book. There are two roads to follow: you can either approach publishing houses or self-publish.

Publishing houses have all the expertise and can reach a wider audience through their marketing channels. Unfortunately, getting published is difficult as there is a lot of competition.

So, you can choose to publish a book on your own. It can be made as an e-book, or you can use a print-on-demand platform if you don’t have a big budget to start with. Otherwise, you can print the first batch from the start.

  • How to choose the best paper for your photo book

Build an online gallery

In this day and age, it’s easy and affordable to build a personal website. You can use this platform to showcase your work by doing galleries with your photography projects.

You’ll find Shotkit’s roundup of the best portfolio websites for photographers here .

Start another project

Last but not least, once you’ve completed your photography project – start working on the next one!

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Ana Mireles is a Mexican researcher that specializes in photography and communications for the arts and culture sector.

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65+ Photography Project Ideas You Can Start Today

Written by  Shutterfly Community Last Updated: Dec 8, 2020

Do you want to sharpen your skills, learn fresh techniques or just have fun with your camera? Photography projects help you accomplish all three.

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Through themed projects, you can capture unique images that follow a certain framework or style. Your project can last a week, month or year—depending on how in depth you’d like to go. To offer you inspiration, we’ve compiled 68 creative photography projects that are appropriate for all skill levels.

Once you’ve completed your project, be sure to create a photo book with your images or select your favorite for a canvas print .

1. Self Portrait

photography project book

By switching the focus from other subjects to yourself as the subject, your photography takes on a whole new perspective. When setting up your shot, choose a landmark item to use as a stand-in until you’re ready to jump in the frame.

Play with auto and manual focus with your stand-in until you get the shot just right. Then, enter the scene using the timer option.

photography project book

For the wisdom project, the goal is to gather photographs of those who have offered you wisdom or a helpful perspective. You might feature grandparents or mentors—or be inclined to include young ones who have provided you a fresh angle on life.

Aim to capture individuals in their natural state, especially if it’s in a location where they shared a special moment with you.

3. Candid Photo

photography project book

Photographing someone in their natural state allows for their true personality to shine through. With a candid photography project, incorporate a range of human subjects for a diverse collection, or capture the same subject across different settings and days.

Building a portfolio of several candids allows you to paint a vivid persona of your subjects.

4. Street Style Photography

photography project book

Authentic street style photography allows you to snag shots of the latest fashion—all without the strut of the runway. Look for colors first (either eye-catching or stunningly neutral), then watch for the cut and structure of the clothes.

Aim for overall beauty within the frame, including the street or walkway, so the focus isn’t solely on the clothes.

5. All About The Details

photography project book

Create a collection of shots with unique subjects that focus on the details. Whether the photos are for an engagement , graduation or everyday occasion, you can take portraits of smaller details, like wisps of hair, relaxed hands and prominent features. Making your subjects feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera is the first priority. Plan a single shoot for various angles to help capture what looks best on a given day or moment.

6. Natural Element

photography project book

Plan for your gallery of photos to include candid shots of the subject in their element. Whether they love the beach or like to craft, you can capture your subject in their favorite space or place to go.

If a subject feels awkward in front of the camera, have him or her lean against something vertical, like a fence, wall or car. They’ll feel more anchored and their body angle will offer the photo some character without seeming unnatural.

7. Pet Photography

photography project book

From cats to dogs to horses, the heart and soul of your pets can be captured with the right technique. Incorporate natural light in your shoot keep watch of your pet’s eyes. Expressions and personality often shine through and it’s a great time to capture these moments.

8. Motherhood

photography project book

Being a mother is one of life’s greatest gifts. When we’re parents, beautiful moments take place along with messy and chaotic ones. Encapsulate the full spectrum of motherhood with photos from quiet moments like snuggling with your child to lively times like cooking together in the kitchen.

With any photography project, it’s important that your images tell a story.

9. Panoramic Pictures

photography project book

A popular technique for landscapes, panoramic photography enlarges the viewpoint beyond the normal size of a camera lens. To ensure there are no gaps in your panoramic shot, overlap your image by 15-30%.

You’ll also want to keep your camera as level as possible to ensure the photo is even throughout. Don’t forget that panos work well for vertical shots, too, like waterfalls and deep canyons.

10. Sunsets Photos

photography project book

Sunsets make for stunning photos—especially when executed well. For maximum beauty, be sure to slightly underexpose the sunset for rich and dramatic colors. Use manual mode and a fast shutter speed for underexposure, or use aperture priority with exposure compensation.

Make your sunset even more magnificent by arranging an object or scene in the foreground of the sunset, like a lake or mountain.

photography project book

Mist and fog are natural elements that can enhance the beauty of your photography. Check the weather to determine when fog might pop up. Oftentimes the best lighting for fog photos occurs in the wee hours of the morning or late in the evening after sunset. The low lighting causes a slower shutter speed, which means a shakier camera.

Keep your camera as still as possible or use a tripod. The best places for foggy photos? Open bodies of water and other sweeping landscapes like fields and low rolling hills.

12. Cityscapes

photography project book

Hovering skyscrapers and diverse skylines are part of what makes cityscapes such attractive photography. For a cityscapes project, try different vantage points across the city to see what works best (think: a popular lookout compared with a more secret locale).

Prepare for an after sunset shoot, allowing the city lights to pop against the dark sky. Remember to use a wide angle lens to cover as much ground as possible.

13. Water (Rain, Ocean)

photography project book

Whether you’re hoping to create scenes of smooth, flowing water or capture dynamic waves crashing against a seawall, it’s critical to have better than average camera equipment. For nearly every water shot, a tripod is also essential to keep the frame still for the length of the exposure (usually two to four seconds).

Pack along a lens-friendly cloth to remove splashes and water marks. Plan to get wet if you’re banking on a stunning water shot.

14. Seasons

photography project book

Each season offers its own charms—from snowy branches to colored leaves. Select a location for your seasons project where you’ll snap photos throughout all four seasons. Once the year is complete, you’ll have a collection of stunning images that tell the story of your special place over the course of a year.

15. Star Trails

photography project book

Spectacular from edge to edge, star trails photography is an adventure to shoot. The first step is to find a clear sky full of stars, but free of pollution and other light interference. Anchoring your camera on a tripod, set your camera to shoot on manual mode. The faster the lens you have, the better.

Once you have your shot prepared, select drive mode for consecutive shots rather than a single frame. With your remote, let your camera take photos for thirty minutes up to a few hours, depending on the length of star trails you’re creating.

photography project book

Capturing still images with a remote-controlled drone opens up the options for angles and perspectives in your photography. Consider sending a drone above a beach, golf course or mountaintop.

Increase the altitude of your drone for a more impressive viewpoint and try GPS mode for a more stable shot.

17. Food Photography

photography project book

As a still life technique, food photography requires a few main ingredients: good lighting, props and style. Place your items near natural lighting or use a flash to give the photo a balanced look. When it comes to the arrangement, consider adding in table setting details like plates and silverware.

Amplify the photo’s texture with decorative pieces like colorful fruits and sprigs of herbs. For a well-rounded food photography project, shoot a variety of foods and dishes.

18. Black and White Month

photography project book

Instead of using the full color spectrum, this project idea prompts you to capture images in black and white only. Two-toned photography provides a different perspective or feel to your work, and gives you a chance to highlight people, places and objects in a novel way.

For instance, a close-up of hands be enticing when displayed in color, but in black and white, the image paints the story that all humankind is united.

19. Everyday Moments

photography project book

Photos that showcase a slice of regular life contain a certain genuine beauty. When preparing for everyday moment shots, make sure subjects are comfortable. People should interact as if you aren’t even present.

The true magic happens when you’re able to capture two people’s true connection.

20. Random Acts of Kindness

photography project book

The random acts of kindness project prompts you to capture someone doing something thoughtful or helpful for another person. By photographing these moments, you’re telling a larger story of humanity.

To be successful in this project, you’ll need to keep a keen eye out for small acts of generosity, like a young man holding the door or a little girl smiling at a stranger.

21. Shoes For a Week

photography project book

Narrow your photography focus for a week by capturing different styles of footwear. From boots to sandals to athletic shoes, diversify your image collection. Be sure to utilize a range of angles to create unique stories for each photo (i.e. a guy lounging with shoes on, two people talking while standing, a woman running).

22. Comfort Zone Challenge

photography project book

Pushing the limits of your creativity often leaves you with impressive and surprising results. With the comfort zone challenge, throw caution to the wind and experiment without expectations.

Maybe that means you’ll shoot a paragliding experience, a fireworks explosion or animals in action. When you’re snapping shots, play around with your shutter speed, aperture, focal length and movement.

23. 30 Strangers

photography project book

Taking a photo of someone whom you’ve only just met can be thrilling. It can also be personally and professionally rewarding. Through the 30 strangers project, you’ll capture 30 portraits of people you’ve never met before. Find people on the street, in a shopping mall or at a park.

Be sure to ask each person’s consent first before posting publicly. The 30 strangers challenge will certainly stretch you outside of your artistic comfort zone.

24. Duotone

photography project book

Duotone photography refers to a multitone production of an image, usually imposed through photo editing techniques. The superimposition of a contrasting color halftone (normally black) over another color halftone enhances the middle tones of an image.

Photographs with one main object, like a flower, seashell or tree, are ideal for creating duotone effects.

25. Perspective

photography project book

Perspective photography can take many forms: those shot from a low angle, ones with strong leading lines and those that look straight up into the sky. Whether your scene is a railroad track or skyscraper, your image should emphasize the angle and the unique perspective you’re hoping to give the viewer.

Train your eye to notice patterns, lines and reflections you can capture from different angles.

photography project book

Not only is coffee delicious and rejuvenating, it’s also a work of art. Collaborate with a barista on a latte design or the type of mug to use. Choose a simple backdrop so the coffee remains the focal point.

A dark backdrop is best if you’re aiming to capture the steam rolling off of a warm drink.

27. Create a Photo Album

elegant wedding anniversary album

Let your memories last forever by creating a photo album for a recent vacation, an adventurous summer or a year filled with fun. Design your photo album with a theme in mind to build cohesion. Vary your layouts from page to page for texture and personality.

28. Traffic Lights

photography project book

When photographing traffic lights and other light trails, the best time is during or after twilight on a night when minimal wind is present. Based on your camera angle and objects, you’ll need to adjust and experiment with your settings.

Often times, shutter priority mode is ideal along with a shutter speed of six seconds. Make stability a non-issue with a tripod, and remember you won’t be using a flash.

29. Happy Days

photography project book

Allow joy to take the center stage of your photos. Whether they’re candid shots of family members interacting or a single subject, make sure the smiles are natural. Enhance the happiness level by highlighting the subject with ample natural lightening.

30. Photo Scavenger Hunt

photography project book

Challenge yourself and your fellow photographers by setting up a photo scavenger hunt . Rather than choosing objects and locations to capture, create a list of photography styles to achieve. For instance, your list might include building a motion blur or catching a clear action shot. At the end of your hunt, you’ll have a collection of impressive photographs.

31. Night Scenes

photography project book

Night scenes, also known as low light photography, allow you to make the most of dark scenes that are hard to capture. When less light is present, it means you’ll also have slower shutter speeds, which equals more camera shake. For this reason, landscapes and long exposures at night time require tripods.

Whether you’re shooting special moments around the campfire or gazing up at the stars, utilize a wide aperture or a low f-number to let in as much light as possible.

32. Polaroids

photography project book

Polaroids offer a timeless feel and give photos a natural frame. When creating a collection of polaroids, be sure to switch up your angles and perspectives. Try a few upclose shots of objects along with macro shots of mountains and lakes.

For polaroids with human subjects, allow for plenty of natural light and aim for candids.

33. Letters/Signs

photography project book

With any inanimate object, the challenge with photography is to bring it to life. With letters and signs, try to enrich the shot with the surrounding scene whether it’s greenery or a neat light fixture. Angle your lens in a way that makes the lettering most striking.

Build a full photography project with at least five to ten different signs.

34. Action Shots

photography project book

To nail a clear action shot—for sports, animals or anything else—the most important aspect is to be prepared. Consider pre-focusing your shot, so when the subject enters the frame, you’re ready.

Because it may take several shots to capture even one solid photo, shoot in short bursts for a few seconds at a time. Keep extra space at either edge of your frame to allow for your subject’s movement.

35. Abstract

photography project book

Fundamental to abstract photography are lines and curves. The shapes you highlight will guide the viewer’s eye to a certain engaging element. To get up close and personal with an object or design, use a macro lens. With the macro, your photo composition will have clearer resolution and sharpness. Complete your project by gathering a collection of abstract photo pieces.

36. New Lens

photography project book

Your camera equipment plays a large role in your work as a photographer. Your tools, like your lenses, can fundamentally change the structure your art.

To sharpen your skills, try using a single lense for an entire month. Ideally, the lense will be new to you—allowing you to master the new tool and broaden your photography skills.

37. Architecture

photography project book

Photographing architecture—whether modern or classic—presents unique challenges. Consider capturing an array of building styles for your portfolio and don’t forget to mix up your angles. Vary your shots by choosing a different weather conditions and times of day.

Through your diversity of shots, you’ll have richer story of the buildings’ relationship with the environment.

38. Thankful

photography project book

To enhance your gratitude and happiness, consider completing a thankful project where you take one photo every day of something you’re grateful for. From flowers to pets to family members, find subjects that have personal meaning to you.

By capturing what you’re thankful for, you connect deeper with the people, places and things that surround you.

39. Sunday Mornings

photography project book

Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee or a good book, snap a photo every Sunday morning for one month or a year. Capturing everyday occurrences through photography is a form of artistic journaling, helping you to document life’s big and small moments.

40. Top View

photography project book

The angle of your shot makes all the difference in how appealing and engaging it is. Try a series of photos where your perspective comes from the top. Amp up the creativity by getting higher for your shoot and using a wide angle lens.

A busy environment, like a packed street or active household, can become a striking composition when using a top view perspective because it offers necessary distance from the cluttered setting.

41. Guilty Pleasures

photography project book

We all have foods and activities we love despite feeling that they might not be held in high regard. Perhaps your guilty pleasure is cream-filled donuts or binge watching reruns of your favorite sitcom.

Collecting images of your guilty pleasures will likely bring you humor and levity, knowing that these items are a part of you, but they don’t necessarily define you.

42. Silhouettes

photography project book

Forming a distinct contrast between light and dark, silhouettes highlight one or multiple subjects. Ensure your subject is backlit with the sun behind them. The best times to shoot silhouettes are in the morning or late evening.

Build a stunning image by setting the scene with open space, like in a field or along the beach. Set up your camera angle facing the sun, then ask your subject to stand between the sun and you. Play around with the exact angle until you have a strong contrast.

photography project book

Create a collection of photos shot with prism filters on your lens or by placing a prism in front of your lens. The light that dances off of the prism will add creative effects to your photography by dispersing light before it hits the camera. Secure your camera on a tripod so you can have your hands free to play with the prism and lighting.

Prism photography can include large subjects like nature scenes and architecture or smaller objects like books and candles.

44. Symmetry

photography project book

Finding subjects that offer you symmetry is the foundational step for this photography project idea. Look for symmetry in architecture and nature, but don’t leave out human and animals subjects. Smaller details, like hands or feet, often make for the perfect symmetrical photo.

photography project book

Bokeh photography is denoted by one unique characteristic: a blur produced in the out-of-focus area of an image. The blur, produced by a lens, helps direct the focus of the photo. A fast lens is necessary to achieve this technique, with at least an f/2.8 aperture.

With a wide open lens, you can create bokeh with subjects like butterflies, humans and fencing around a baseball field. These photos are perfect for framing around your home .

46. Action Figures

photography project book

Due to their size, action figures are easy to rearrange and shoot from multiple angles. Bring the scene to life by having the figures interact with each other. If you’re looking for an extra challenge, tell a story through your action figures, like one you would find in a comic book. Include action shots against a simple backdrop.

47. Steel Wool

photography project book

Although it may seem like steel wool photography would require expensive equipment, it is a surprisingly inexpensive technique. For this project, you’ll need the following: a camera, lens, tripod, shutter cable, steel wool, string, stainless steel whisk, lighter and protective gloves. In a dark location—away from combustible items and other people—burn steel wool that’s loosely packed in a whisk.

As the steel wool burns, spin the whisk either vertically or horizontally to create the desired effect. The burning will only last about ten seconds, so you’ll want to set up for at least five seconds of exposure time. Steel wool photography creates wild and interesting images, but be sure to follow safety precautions to avoid hazards.

photography project book

To enhance your skills and test out a nifty shooting technique, try macro photography on tiny subjects like insects, match-heads and flowers. Keeping your budget in mind, choose a magnification lens that lets you make super small items appear larger than life. For your macro project, vary your subjects.

Consider nature’s smallest members, miniature household items and up close shots of human elements for your portfolio.

49. Double Exposure

photography project book

Double exposure, also known as multiple exposure, is a technique that combines two images in a single image. By using double exposure, you can create a distinct effect like a mirror image or ghost-like presence. The layering technique can be done with or without photoshop, depending on your equipment and skill set.

50. Escapism

photography project book

Photography, like any type of art, can be a form of escapism. Through the camera, we can create images that help us step out of reality and into our daydreams. Prepare for your escapism photography project by thinking of your ‘happy places’ or locations you go to get away.

After brainstorming, head to one of those locations and shoot scenes that offer a mystical aura—whether it’s birds fluttering in the forest or the clouds lifting off of the mountains.

51. Shadow Art

photography project book

Just as light is a critical element to photography, so is darkness. With shadow art, the focus is placed on the subject as it blocks light from reaching a surface, like a sidewalk or table. Experiment with the angle, distance and size of your light source to alter the intensity and scale of your shadows.

Consider humans as your subjects, but inanimate objects, too, like musical instruments, buildings and action figures.

52. Texture

photography project book

From brick walls to tiled roofs to wooden fences, textures are all around us. Complete a photo challenge where you take one shot of a textured surface every day. Turn on your auto focus to ensure the object is in perfect focus. Adjust your distance from the subject based on how much detail you want in your image. This idea is perfect if you’re also looking for creative Instagram photo ideas .

Aim for a ninety degree angle when you shoot the image so your texture is lined up straight with the camera.

53. 365 Wardrobe

photography project book

On each day of the year, snap photos of your clothes before you begin the day. Arrange them differently—sometimes orderly, sometimes more carelessly—to gain a sense of how your mood changed from day to day. Remember to include accessories like purses, shoes, belts and headbands.

54. Suspend Time

photography project book

Photography is a powerful art medium: it can even pause time. Whether you’re suspending an item with a fishing line or taking a shot of someone jumping, you can create the look of time being stopped. Start this photography project by choosing three items or people you’d like to suspend.

55. Balloons

photography project book

Bursting with color or more neutral tones, balloons make for versatile props. Let helium balloons off into the sky and capture photos as they float up. Surround the birthday girl with balloons in an otherwise empty room. Or tie a balloon to a child’s wrist and photograph them as they wander through a park.

56. Hotel Carpet

photography project book

If you travel frequently, the hotel carpet project may be the right kind of fun for you. Next time you’re walking through a hotel lobby, glance down at the carpet beneath your feet. All sorts of patterns and colors are used in hotel carpets across the world. Take a snapshot (ideally at a 90-degree angle) of each carpet for a collection that will help you remember all of the places you’ve been.

photography project book

Across neighborhoods and cities, doors provide insight to each home’s character. For this photography project, set out on an adventure to collect as many styles and sizes of doors as possible. Choose a macro approach, where the whole door makes the shot, or go micro by narrowing the frame to door handles and styles of wood.

58. Juxtaposition

photography project book

To build juxtaposition in your photographs, place two opposite subjects next to one another. Like a blue ocean and a green forest, the contrast between the two is noticeable yet stunning. Types of juxtaposition might include a person and their shadow or a thin item next to a thicker item. For this photography project, try several contrasting subjects or locations.

photography project book

Photos full of irony can be humorous or thought-provoking. Maybe you snap an image of a tow truck hauling another tow truck or you notice a descriptive sign in a place that doesn’t quite seem to fit. When it comes to ironic photos, a keen eye is needed along with a quick wit.

60. Fairy Lights

photography project book

Fairy lights make for beautiful focal points. You can wrap the lights around a tree, weave them between human subjects or fill mason jars with them. Build a larger scene by ensuring no backdrop distractions are present or capture the fairy lights up close.

Regardless of what subjects and scenes you decide to shoot, proper exposure is crucial.

photography project book

For this photography project, choose smoke as your primary accent. Incense sticks are easy to use and allow you to play with various colors. Your setup should ensure ample ventilation for the smoke to escape the room. Some photographers merge two photographs (one of the smoke and one of the object) to design a special scene, like one of a toy train blowing smoke or a tea kettle steaming.

62. Vintage Cars

photography project book

From sporty models to classic town cars, vintage vehicles never go out of style. Look for vintage makes at car rallies and exhibitions, although sometimes you’ll come across them in your everyday happenings. The golden hours, right after sunrise or right before sunset, are ideal for shooting cars. Highlight specific parts, like bumpers, trunks and hoods for diverse perspectives.

63. Faces In Things

photography project book

You’ve probably seen images that double as a face and another object. In this photography project, you’ll create a similar effect. Take a close look at nature, food and furniture to locate hidden human faces. Compile as many faces as you can, and see if your friends can guess what’s in the images.

photography project book

Alter your perspective by shooting your subject through a picture frame. The frame technique works best outdoors where you can place ample distance between your lens and your subject. Consider creating scenes with a woman standing on the beach, a tree in an open field or a tall building at the end of a street.

65. Reflections

photography project book

Any body of water—like a lake, river, pond or swimming pool—can act as your reflective tool for this photography project. You’ll want to avoid direct light on the water to eliminate glare. Practice using reflections on waterfront cityscapes or mountains overlooking a lake.

66. Take My Hand

photography project book

When you can represent human connection in photography, the emotion of the image is strengthened. Head out on a hike or stroll through a garden to practice photographing two hands linked together.

67. Picception

photography project book

A relatively new technique, picception images incorporate another camera or photo into the shot. It can be a picture-in-a-picture style or something more subtle like a photograph of someone taking a photograph. While often informal, picception shots can be formal if intentionally designed.

photography project book

Often eye-catching, neon photos provide a stunning mix of light, shape and color. Whether you’re on the Vegas strip or exploring your hometown at night, take photos of neon signs with your camera’s evaluative meter exposure setting. Choose a low ISO of 200 or 100 to avoid noise. Be sure to place your camera on a tripod for stability.

No matter which photography projects you decide to complete, remember to enjoy the process and save copies of your photos. Design a themed calendar or metal print to showcase your results.

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The Best Photography Books - Top 35 List

Amrish Mudgal - Author

We have researched and compiled a list of the 35 best photography books that can help you learn about every aspect of photography.

In this digital age, anyone with a camera can lay claim to being a photographer. However, photography as art needs both education and practice. You read articles, ebooks, and view videos online to get started with developing your interest in this art into something more serious. However, photography is a complex and specialized skill, and you need trusted resources that you can depend on to take forward steps as a photographer. This is where photography books come in.

Learning photography from books by master photographers gives you direct access to professional techniques and tricks that the pros have developed over their careers.  

Photography books are not just a great way to be inspired and to learn some new techniques; they also help you understand the business of photography better.

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We have researched and compiled a list of the 35 best photography books that can help you learn about every aspect of it:

 - Photography books for beginners.  - Textbooks with all the details and techniques.  - Technical manuals focussed on specific topics like posing or lighting.  - Coffee table photo books full of inspiration. And even business books to help you run a successful photography business

Disclaimer: The links given below are not sponsored links. We do not receive any commission if you buy these books using the links below.

Here is the list of the 35 best photography books to learn photography:, best beginner photography books, understanding exposure by bryan peterson.

best photography books

An excellent primer on how to get out of the programmed automatic mode on your camera, Bryan Peterson's Understanding Exposure touches on many of the fundamentals of photography. From composition to aperture and depth of field, Understanding Exposure helps both the beginning novice learn the ropes and the seasoned pro learn something new. The book has been ranked #1 on Amazon's bestsellers for photography reference books and with a good reason. The text also includes some workbook type problems to help you "get it."

Complete Guide to Photography

Guide to photography

Focused on the beginners of photography, this book will help you to learn all the functionalities of a professional camera and how to use them. The content of this book is divided into the main settings in your camera and the explanation is given with proper images. There is a separate section on composition, creative techniques and post processing as well. 

Better Photo Basics: The Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Taking Photos Like a Pro By Jim Miotke

As a beginner photographer, you'll often be looking for advice on how to take better photographs and to get set up. This book by Jim Miotke is an excellent start for anyone of any age looking to get into photography, whether with their cell phone or a complicated DSLR. Unlike some photography books for beginners, this one is not weighted down with technical, lengthy explanations. Instead, it is made up of quick tips to help photographers see an immediate difference in their images.

DSLR Photography for Beginners: Take 10 Times Better Pictures in 48 Hours or Less By Brian Black

This popular book by Brian Black offers beginning photographers a crash course in using their fancy new digital SLR cameras. A valuable resource to help you hit the ground running, you can use this book to get started and find the topics you want to study more in depth. DSLR Photography for Beginners is currently the number one best seller on Amazon's Landscape Photography and Photography Equipment lists.

Photoshop for Photographers: Training for Photographers to Master Digital Photography and Photo Editing By John Slavio

Photography books for beginners

Digital photographers not only need to be well versed in their photo equipment, but they must also know their way around a computer and photo editing program. Photoshop has been an industry standard for decades. It is one of the best photography books for beginners, and it helps you make better images and gain valuable experience and a new comfort level with the king of all photography programs.

Extraordinary Everyday Photography By Brenda Tharp And Jed Manwaring

photography guide

Written for literally anyone who wants to take better photos, Tharp and Manwaring's book encourages photography from new angles in the same places. No matter where you are, you can always find more to photograph and new ways to create enticing images. This book is not a technical guide with lots of details; instead, it provides inspiration and a new way to look at subjects and shooting locations.

The Digital Photography Book Box Set By Scott Kelby

The digital photography book

Sold in a five-volume set, this series by Scott Kelby gives you step-by-step pointers to getting your photographs to look like the pros. The book avoids dull and lengthy technical explanations and, according to some reviewers, is more like going shooting with a knowledgeable friend who shares his secrets along the way. As the series progresses, more and more technical explanations are added. When studied together, the box set is a complete course in the art of photography and are the best digital photography books which you need to have.

50 Photo Projects - Ideas to Kickstart Your Photography By Lee Frost

Often you can read the textbook over and over again, but you will never truly understand a concept until you practice it. 50 Photo Projects allows you to do just that. Without having to rely on inspiration, the book provides an accessible path to practicing your art no matter where you are. Lack of project ideas is often a missing link for self-taught photographers and is an excellent exercise for every photographer that can help get you out of your comfort zone and bolster your portfolio with something a little different.

Langford’s Basic Photography: The guide for serious photographers – Michael Langford 

This excellent book for beginner photographers teaches you everything about how to capture images and how to evolve and grow your technique as a photographer. The book gives in-depth insights on how to choose the best camera and lenses for your work and talks about the principles of lighting and the equipment you will need to achieve the results you want. You will also learn about the entire workflow of digital photography - how to edit, store, and organize your images, and then how to print and present your images to clients. It is a great book that takes you through the A-Z of a digital photographer's process.

Best Learning Photography Books

The art of photography by bruce barnbaum.

The art of photography

With so many technical volumes focusing on specifics like composition and exposures, it's easy to forget the artistic side of taking photographs. Barnbaum's The Art of Photography is here to help, with clearly written lessons that concentrate on how to express yourself through your art and your camera better.

Understanding Flash Photography: How to Shoot Great Photographs Using Electronic Flash By Bryan Peterson

Flash photography book

Another excellent guide from Peterson, Understanding Flash Photography is also a must-read. Flash photography is a worthy challenge for all photographers, and the wide range of lighting products and techniques makes it all the more daunting. Peterson breaks down the options to the basics and gives useful tips any photographer can apply to his or her work. Learning to master the speed light is an excellent skill for photographers of all types. The tips and tricks employed are useful even when dealing with natural light.

Photography: The Definitive Visual History

This history of photography book by Tom Ang and published by DK presents the content in a way no other book on photography history does. One of the best reference books for photographers which compiles the history from the beginning till the digital photography age going on now. The significant events in photography history, the major technological changes, the world-famous photographers who have created iconic photos; this book has it all.

Picture Perfect Posing By Roberto Valenzuela

Resource for portrait photographers

At some point, every photographer will work with human subjects. Valenzuela's Picture Perfect series is an excellent resource for learning all things photography, but the volume on posing stands out. Working with models and human subjects can be one of the more challenging aspects of photography, and camera-friendly posing is an art form all to itself. Picture Perfect Posing is a perfect resource for portrait photographers.

Film Is Not Dead By Jonathon Canlas

As shocking as it may sound to those who have been in the industry for decades, there are photographers out there today that have never held a film camera. While digital has proliferated and permeated every aspect of the photography industry, a growing movement is bringing film photography back to the forefront. Whether it is merely retro nostalgia or the makings of a new kind of photography remains to be seen, but this excellent book by Canlas will help interested photographers learn their way around both 35 mm and medium format films.

Black and White Photography: A Basic Manual By Henry Horenstein

Black and white photography book

Horenstein's book about black and white photography has been a common sight in beginning photography courses for decades. With the current renaissance of film photography , perhaps Horenstein's book can inspire new audiences. Can experience make up for the lack of a degree, or is having a degree crucial? The age old debate of education vs. experience resurfaces each time one seeks out to make a career move. can be one of the most challenging and yet rewarding aspects, so don't miss this manual to help expand your horizons.

The Moment It Clicks: Photography Secrets From One Of The World’s Top Shooters By Joe McNally

Advanced techniques are great for students and pros alike to brush up on new and exciting ways to shoot. In McNally's book, The Moment It Clicks, invaluable tips and tricks are shared from a well-respected industry professional, making it one of the best books to learn photography. While sharing his work, he shares the stories behind each shot and challenges you to approach your projects differently.

Night Photography & Light Painting: Finding Your Way in the Dark By Lance Keimig

Night photography books

Nothing comes close to capturing a spectacular night shot. Night photography, maybe more than any other type of photography, shares a new view of the world that few people are lucky enough to experience themselves. It creates a magical experience. Technically challenging but a lot of fun, night photography doesn't need to be intimidating. Keimig’s book challenges you to take a stroll after dark and to create some remarkable works of art.

Guide To Travel Photography By Lonely Planet

Maybe just looking at photos of beautiful places isn't quite enough for you. When you visit those world-class locales, you want to capture the beauty with the skill and eye of the best photographer. This book by Lonely Planet is a great step in that direction. By sharing the tips and tricks of the industry's leading travel photographers, the guide will have you transitioning your images from snapshots to breathtaking destination photography in no time.

Photography Theory Books

Photography theory by james elkins.

Photography theory

Imagine world-famous art historians and theorists having a debate on the nature of photography! This book has exactly that and that too in animated form. There are many answers to what a photograph is, and this book discusses various opinions around it. These opinions range from a picture being a way to present the reality of the world to it being a medium to confuse the people on the same.

The Decisive Moment By Henri Cartier-Bresson

This book by the legend in photography - Bresson, contains some of his photographs as well as his view on the approach to photography. Street photographers especially adore Henri Cartier Bresson for his unique style. The Decisive Moment book is one of the best street photography books and for anyone who wants to understand the views of Bresson towards photography, which has influenced generations of photographers. Bresson lay down his belief in the magical moment when many different elements like interactions, moments, form, and light all come together to form a perfect, visually appealing image. To achieve that one has to be unnoticeable, quick, and attentive.

On Photography By Susan Sontag

Susan Sontag is regarded as one of the most influential writers of the modern era. This book gives a detailed analysis of photography, giving her strong opinions on the issues of morality and aesthetics. She explains the role photography has in our lives, how we treat photography, how it influences us, and so on. This photography theory book is a must read for someone who wants to understand how photographs are perceived and how it is changing the world. 'On Photography' is one of the best photography books of all time, which will make you question everything you know about the way we consume photographs.

Beauty In Photography By Robert Adams

The book consists of criticism written over ten years by Robert Adams, who thought deeply about the field of photography and tested his assumptions by practicing it. His way of writing consists of humor, avoiding the authoritative and moralistic tone. The essays in the book questions on whether photography is an art, how can we judge a photograph and such. 

Ways of Seeing By John Berger

One of the widely used and praised books on Art, Ways of Seeing, is based on the BBC series by the same name. This book focuses on how we look at art, and it can help in forming a better perspective on how photographs are being looked at and evaluated. The book critically explores the aesthetics of western culture and how society is being influenced by visual culture.

Visual Thinking by Rudolf Arnheim

Author of books like 'The Dynamic of Architectural Form', 'Film as Art', ' Toward a Psychology of Art' etc., Rudolf explains that thinking, of visual nature of not, is based on perception. This book is an important resource for those who are interested in any field related to the arts. 

Light and Lighting by Michael Freeman

Light and Lighting by Michael Freeman

This book teaches how to see the minute details of light and shadow. Understanding how you see the light and how you can use it to capture well-lit photographs are things that are covered in this book. Apart from tips to deal with lighting on different genres of photography, you can learn about operating various studio lighting equipment. Photographers can learn how to deal with challenging lighting situations and get insights on developing their own personal lighting style. 

Camera Lucida: Reflections on Photography by Roland Barthes

Published first in 1979, this book by Roland Barthes describes photography as something which affects the body as well as the mind. Barthes places value on photography for being more acute than any other medium to depict death as it was written when he was grieving for his mother. Barthes, in this book, does not write about the technicalities of photography, nor is he interested in contemporary media or culture. He emphasizes the meaning and context of photographs. 

Best Books For Building Your Photography Business

What they didn’t teach you in photo school by demetrius fordham.

Books for photography business

If you are looking for books on starting a photography business and if you're looking to make money with your photos, consider checking out Fordham's What They Didn't Teach You in Photo School. This volume covers the business aspects of photography, specifically. The book touches on what it is like to be a working photographer and ways to successfully get there.

The Photographer’s Guide to Marketing and Self-Promotion By Maria Piscopo

Penned by a creative services consultant, this book helps any fledgling creative businesses get off the ground. As any professional photographer will tell you, photography is about much more than just taking great photos. Success often boils down to your business skills, your business plan, and your marketing. The book features case studies and interviews with commercial photographers, making it a useful reference for photographers looking to take their businesses to the next level.

No Plastic Sleeves: Portfolio and Self-Promotion Guides for Photographers and Designers By Larry Volk and Danielle Currier

A topic of great importance to beginners and seasoned photographers alike is how to keep their portfolio polished and relevant. No Plastic Sleeves dives deep into the art of portfolio making for effective marketing of your business. For visual artists, nothing trumps your portfolio. Make sure yours shines by taking the advice of industry pros like Volk and Currier.

Understanding the Business of Entertainment: The Legal and Business Essentials All Filmmakers Should Know By Gregory Bernstein

Legal issues abound in the film and photography industry, from privacy to trademarks and copyright issues. Primarily focuses on filmmaking, Bernstein's volume is valuable to anyone in the visual arts. Bernstein's time as an entertainment attorney allows him to shed light on some of the most critical and lesser-known challenges facing artists today.

Best Photography Coffee Table Books for Inspiration

In the national parks by ansel adams.

Photo books for inspiration

Not every photography book should be about technique or business. Presented in over 200 photos, this photo book of Adams' timeless black and white images shares the story of America's national parks. In the National Parks By Ansel Adams is one of the best photo books, sure to spur your creativity and appreciation for artistic black and white landscapes.

Annie Leibovitz: Portraits 2005-2016

This new collection of photographs by Annie Leibovitz is a follow-up to her two previous landmark photo books, Annie Leibovitz: Photographs, 1970-1990 and A Photographer's Life, 1990-2005. In this photography portfolio book, Annie Leibovitz, one of the most influential photographers of our time, presents iconic portraits along with never before published images that she has shot over the last decade.

Destinations of a Lifetime By National Geographic

Another stunning coffee table book, this National Geographic collection shares breathtaking views of some of the most remote and most beautiful destinations around the globe. Featuring over 250 images that span the range from secluded islands, exotic rainforests, and majestic mountains. It isn't just another photo book, however. This National Geographic guide also gives aspiring travelers the details they need to know to visit each of these bucket list-worthy destinations, some of which are listed on Marina Reservation .

Humans of New York By Brandon Stanton

A street photographer's show book, Stanton's Humans of New York, contains over 400 images of people in their natural environment. The moving pictures in this book have propelled it to be a #1 New York Times bestseller. The stunning photography in this photo book will inspire you to walk down the street and meet some new people.

Underwater Dogs By Seth Casteel

Underwater photography

This laugh-out-loud funny coffee table book is full of amazing shots of dogs and water. Dive in with the furry friends as they jump, splash, slosh, and play. Many of these photos will make you wonder aloud, "how on earth did he get that shot?" Underwater Dogs provides inspiration and a reminder that for every photographer, there is a niche. It is one of the best photography coffee table books you can have in your house and let the viewers have a good time.

Vivian Maier: The Color Work by Colin Westerbeck

Vivian Maier, who came into the photography scene when thousands of photographs taken by her, were discovered after her death. Her unique perspective into the world can now be seen with pictures which were never published before. Having more than 150 of her color photographs and a foreword written by renowned photographer Joel Meyerowitz, this book is one of the best photo books published in 2018.

Conclusion:

Whether you are a beginner looking to grab some tips from the pros or a life-long expert, photography books are a great way to keep building your photography knowledge base. Some books teach, some books inspire, and some books do both. Break your dry spell and get out of your creative rut with a new challenge and a new technique.

These are just some of the best photography books, that have received great reviews from beginner and pro photographers alike. Have you read some of these books? Are there any other books that you would like to see included in the list.

Share your feedback and recommendations with us in the comments below.

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Shoot It With Film

My Journey Turning a Personal Photography Project into a Published Book by David Teran

  • Learn to Shoot Film: Tips & Tutorials
  • August 25, 2023

Medium format film image from the Hasselblad Ballet project - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

Written by  David Teran

Howdy! My name is David Teran, a fine art portrait photographer based in San Antonio, Texas. Today, I would like to give you a little insight into a long-term project I’ve worked on for the past five and a half years.

Using just my Hasselblad 500CM and one roll of Ilford HP5+ film for each shoot (rated at 200, developed for 14 minutes in 1:9 Kodak T-Max developer ), I have photographed ballerinas in 19 countries and 53 different cities, using 280 rolls in the process.

This project will be culminating with my first monograph and coffee table book, Hasselblad Ballet . I am in the middle of the journey of turning this personal project into a published book, and wanted to share what the process has looked like so far.

Image of David Teran - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

Starting the Hasselblad Ballet Personal Project

Although I initially started photographing ballerinas as a side-project, it soon became a major focus in my photography.

I don’t need to sell Shoot It With Film readers on the merits of film, but what makes this project special for me is the idea of flying to another country, coordinating with one or two ballerinas, and dedicating only 12 frames to each dancer.

At the risk of sounding pretentious and suggesting that film is better than digital (hint: it is… for different reasons), limiting myself to one roll makes me meticulous and precise with every frame. Where a digital session with a ballerina can produce anywhere from 500-1,500 images, this analog process leaves me with a higher percentage of “keeper” frames.

After about a year and 35 ballerinas photographed, I knew I would want to create a physical, tangible book.

Seeing the images printed in the darkroom, off my a digital screen, made me realize you cannot truly appreciate an image on a four or five inch phone screen.

Medium format film image from the Hasselblad Ballet project - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

Finding a Publisher

The first step for me in this book-making process was to make a list of publishers I wanted to approach, and create a pamphlet showing my work.

There appeared to me a certain level of esteem by having your book published, versus throwing my name on the cover and self-publishing. Although I have nothing to prove by having a published book, I thought if I’m going to do this, I want to do it in a traditional, published manner – if possible.

I made my PDF pitch, and emailed 35 different publishing houses, hoping to receive a response from even one.

I own over 100 coffee table photo books myself, and decided to pitch to the publishers who published the books that I liked.

Medium format film image from the Hasselblad Ballet project - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

After a few weeks of radio silence, responses started coming in.

Most were negative, but the negatives I took as a positive. Taschen , my dream publisher, told me they liked my body of work, but that I was not a fit in their current catalog of upcoming published books.

They asked if they could keep my information on file, and approach me two years in the future for consideration. As flattering as this was to me, that wouldn’t work for my emotional timeline. I was ready to see this book printed.

Following more silence, and more turned down responses, a medium-sized, German publishing company finally responded in the affirmative.

I was thrilled, beyond elated. I have an affinity for all things German (except food). I own German watches, German cameras, a German car – the lenses on my Hasselblad are German-made. I knew I would be satisfied with a German publishing company.

Also, it’s not like I had a line of publishers waiting to publish my first monograph.

Medium format film image from the Hasselblad Ballet project - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

Related: 5 Film Photography Projects to Spark Your Creativity

Getting Ghosted and Starting Over

Over the next two months, many Zoom calls, and over 45 back and forth emails, we were ready to start discussing funds, get an exact number of how many books I will be receiving, royalties, how I wanted the book to look, etc.

Unfortunately – I haven’t heard back from then.

Yes, I realize this reads weird, as if I missed a few sentences. I haven’t. I was ghosted out of the blue, and to this day, still have no idea if they are going to send me a finalized quote or not.

Medium format film image from the Hasselblad Ballet project - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

Although this bummed me out, there’s nothing that can’t be fixed with a bowl – or two or three – of chocolate ice cream.

I quickly got back onto my hunt for a publishing company, and finally met with a very small, independent company here in my hometown. Until the book is printed, I will keep this information private… in case I get ghosted again.

But suffice it to say, they have been incredibly helpful, playing more of a guidance role than anything else.

Note: Before the medium-sized publisher ghosted me, they gave me the name of a book titled Publish Your Photography Book by Darius D. Himes & Mary Virginia Swanson . This book holds invaluable insight, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to find a publisher, or even self-publish.

Selecting images - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

The Daunting Task of Culling Images

Now that I had a publishing company, formulated an idea of what I want the physical constraints of the book to be, and figured out a budget, it was time to get to the fun part of the book: culling and deciding which images would make the cut.

After five and a half years, and 280 rolls photographed, I was left with a library of 3,360 images. Tiny, in comparison to any digital photographer, but I digress. For me, this number was astronomical, and represented over 300,000 miles traveled in that time period.

But I had to start somewhere, so one day I locked myself in my office, put on some classical music, and started the process.

Culling images - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

My initial cull involved sitting down with my three, 3-ring binders of negatives and contact sheets, and marking up the physical contact sheets with a silver permanent marker.

I started with roll 001, in Phoenix, Arizona, and ended with roll 280, in Nashville, Tennessee. I thought to pick only my absolute favorites, and landed on 706 images.

Like any parent having to choose between their favorite kids knows, it’s always best to double check, so I decided to go back for a second pass, in case I missed any from my first cull.

Finally, I gave it a third pass, and put a sticker on the sleeves of the corresponding negatives, which gave me one last opportunity to pick any images that escaped the first two passes.

These culls took five days, dedicating about three hours every day to the task. And now I was done.

Out of the 3,360 starting options, I had come down to 851 images, a much more manageable number, but nonetheless too many.

I knew I was gonna have to start picking my favorite of my favorite kids, aka photos.

Medium format film image from the Hasselblad Ballet project - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

And Even More Culling

My next step was to create digital, virtual copies of those images so that I could manage this culling process without having to carry my physical negatives everywhere.

Although this project is entirely analog by nature, I have created a happy digital hybrid. After all, you are reading this on a digital screen and seeing these images in their almost-done-but-not-yet-printed-into-a-book-form.

I sat with my library of images, and my boxes of physical negatives, and would star the corresponding digital JPG in Lightroom.

Unsurprisingly, this resulted in “101 missing negatives,” bringing my grand total to 952 images. Thankfully, I’m not this indecisive when it comes to food.

Medium format film image from the Hasselblad Ballet project - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

Re-digitizing the Images

In looking at five and a half years of digital images in a three hour span, I realized that I was going to have to re-digitize the entire project.

When I had initially started in 2018, I had scanned the negatives with a crummy Epson V600, which resulted in extremely flat images.

Covid gifted me with an excess of time, and I converted an extra enlarger I had laying around ( gasp I KNOW) into a full-time digital scanning kit . I mounted a ball tripod head onto the top of the enlarger where the condenser head would sit, and using the actual condenser head, would photograph the negatives with a 24mp digital 35mm camera.

These literal RAW files allowed me extreme manipulation of the images, all the while staying true to the edits that I was afforded in a traditional darkroom: exposure, cropping, brightness, shadows, and contrast.

For this re-digitization process, and to stay true to the name of the project, I rented a Hasselblad X2D 100mp medium format camera and 120mm H macro lens, and photographed all 952 images.

Now that I had the images re-edited, I opened a program on my iPad called Freeform, and chronologically imported all 952 images, organizing them by date, city, and location.

This allowed me to quickly look at all the images within the palm of my hands, and using an Apple Pencil, make notes, crops, and continue the culling process.

Digitizing film images - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

The Next Round of Selections

This next step in the process was painstakingly slow and meticulous.

I was able to share this digital Freeform library with friends and family and allow them to choose their favorite images. Over the next three months, I got the input from more than a dozen friends; but in the end, it was only I that had the power to kill my favorite kids – proverbially, of course.

I was finally down to 351 images. Still too many for a book, but much more manageable. These 351 images are the favorites of my favorite kids.

I created a separate library with 351 of these images, exported them, and printed them at my local Kinkos on cheap photocopy paper to look at all the images in bigger form.

Although the Hasselblad Ballet book will be a “photography book that just happens to have ballerinas in it,” I wanted to ensure that my photographs honor the 500+ year old ballet art form.

I presented these images to a ballet critique, Sofiane Sylve, a former, world renowned ballerina, and now the artistic director at Ballet San Antonio.

Sofiane ensures that the ballet technique of the images are acceptable. This brought down my cull to 309 images.

Selecting images - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

The plan for the next steps is as follows: I am launching a Kickstarter to hire a designer to design the book and fund printing and production. After my Kickstarter campaign ends on September 20th, I will be working with my designer to figure out which of those 309 images will make the book cut… thus possibly even cutting out more kids.

Then, I’ll send the files off to the printing press, get a dummy and hard proof book to check quality, approve said dummy/proof, and then have the book printed.

So now, dear reader, I leave you with my plea: if you find this project to move the needle of your heart, you can help this project be a success… and in the end, see which are truly my favorite kids… I mean, images.

Help fund the Hasselblad Ballet Fine Art Book.

I’ll be sure to come back and do a follow-up on the rest of the process!

Selecting images - How to Publish a Personal Photography Project by David Teran on Shoot It With Film

Thank you so much, David! You can find more of David’s work on his website and Instagram .

Leave your questions about turning your personal photography projects into a published book below, and if you want to support David’s Hasselblad Ballet Fine Art Book, check out the Kickstarter here .

Shoot It With Film Magazine Issue 01 Promo Image

Related Posts:

Scanning Your Own Film Negatives by Jennifer Stamps on Shoot It With Film

Blog Comments

August 27, 2023 at 8:13 am

Not sure how you selected the images for this article given the challenge of culling for the book, but I am a bit confused as to why so many publishers rejected your “application”. I really like each and every image shown in this article. While I may not pitch in for the kickstarter, I will definitely be looking for when you do publish because I think I want a copy for my coffee table. Besides, you have me thinking now about starting a “Yashica Diary” or “Rollie Scrapbook”, or some such similar vehicle. Thanks for sharing your story. I may have to take a look at your kickstarter after all.

August 28, 2023 at 10:45 pm

Hi David, thanks for the question. These images are some of my favorite images in the project, some of the images I feel best exemplifies the project.

I encourage you to start your own project! A cohesive body of work is a great way to hone your style and really learn what you like and don’t like.

I appreciate the Kickstarter support, too! The book will only be printed if the Kickstarter campaign is 100% funded – Kickstarter is an all-or-nothing fundraiser.

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52 photography projects: a great technique to try every week of the year

Our pick of the perfect weekend photography projects

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  • Home photography projects
  • Outdoor photography projects
  • More outdoor photography projects
  • Long-term photography projects

Looking for photography projects to stimulate your creativity? Whether you’re a beginner who’s just learning the ropes or a seasoned snapper in need of inspiration, trying out a new technique can help you grow as a photographer. That’s why the list below features our pick of the best ideas to try with your camera.

From painting with light trails to capturing twilight landscapes, there are countless creative ways to use your camera and its lens. This round-up of our favorite weekend projects features suggestions to suit every skill level – whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or a ‘proper’ camera like a DSLR.

Some you can do from the comfort of you home, while others will have you heading out in search of specific scenes. Whether it’s a novel technique or an inventive suggestion for finding fresh subjects, every idea below has one thing in common: it should challenge you to try something different and find a fresh perspective.

Most of the projects can be attempted using the equipment you already own. Those that do require additional materials should all be achievable with pocket-money purchases – and if there’s any crafting involved, it should be well worth the effort when you see the results.

We’ve shared 52 of our favorite suggestions to do in 2022 below. Try them all and, in a year’s time, there’s a good chance you’ll be a better photographer, with a keener understanding of your camera and what it’s capable of. Plus you’ll be all set to attempt the final project: self-publishing a photo book.

The best home photography projects:

1. water drop art.

The basic idea with this project is to suspend a container of liquid and let drops fall through a small hole, then capture the resulting splash. Timing the shutter as the splash is created is everything. We achieved good results using two flashguns set to their lowest power (1/128th), an aperture of f/22 and water mixed with Xanthan gum to make a more viscous solution. We also used a SplashArt water drop kit from PhotoTrigger , which helped to regulate the size and frequency of the drops.

2. Indoor splash shots

For this project you'll need a flashgun that you can fire remotely, a container with clear sides for your water, a coloured background and a tripod. Set up the container and backdrop, then position the flash over the container. With the camera on a tripod and set to manual focus and exposure - f/8, ISO200 and the fastest shutter speed that will work with your flash - drop the object into the water and fire the shutter as it hits.

3. Shapes of bokeh

Out-of-focus orbs of light can add magic to any image, but the bokeh effect needn’t be limited to standard circles. From love hearts to stars, a simple cutout filter can transform background sparkles into brilliant shapes. 

Using your lens cap as a guide, draw a circle on a piece of card. Cut out the circle, score a small shape in the centre using scissors or a craft knife, then push the card onto the front of your lens (or attach it with an elastic band). When you next shoot a scene, any unfocused light will take the form of your shape. 

Use a wide aperture to maximize the effect and remember that, as the filter restricts the amount of light entering your lens, you’ll want to set a longer exposure or higher ISO. Try simple shapes such as triangles to get started, before progressing to stars, hearts, crosses and more.

4. Create smoke art

Smoke trails are a firm favourite among still-life photographers. But how about taking it to the next level and using the shapes in a creative Photoshop project. Once you've taken a few good smoke art photos, make a blank document in Photoshop, then copy and paste one of the smoke images into it. Set the blending mode to Screen and use Warp Transform to reshape it. Continue the process to combine a range of smoke shots into a new image.

5. DIY lightbox

Lightboxes are used to illuminate objects evenly against a plain background, often for the purposes of product or food photography. Luckily, you don’t have to have a pro budget to make one at home. All you need is a cardboard box, some white paper and a table lamp. 

Remove the top flaps, stand the box on one end and cut window holes in either side. Line the box with a single, seamless piece of white paper and cover the holes with thin paper or fabric, taped in place. Then it’s as simple as positioning a desk lamp on one or both sides: the paper will diffuse the light, evenly illuminating whatever object you put inside. 

Or for an even simpler setup, use a single piece of paper as the backdrop, with one white wall made from card, and position near a window (as pictured). Experiment with aperture and shutter speed to shoot subjects with totally white backgrounds or some shadow for a sense of perspective. Then mix things up with color backgrounds. If the quality is high enough, you could list your images for sale on a stock photography website to earn some lockdown pocket money.

6. Lubricate your lens

Want to give your housebound portraits added glow? If you have a spare lens filter lying around, try an old Hollywood trick: smear a layer of Vaseline on the glass to give your images a soft, dreamy look, keeping aperture wide to emphasize the ethereal effect with a shallow depth of field. 

Get experimental by leaving the middle of the filter free from Vaseline to create a halo effect, with the centre in clear focus but the outer elements blurry and soft. Don’t want to sacrifice a filter? Stretch cling-film tight across the lens and keep it in place with an elastic band, before using the Vaseline in the same way. If you’re not into portraits, try the effect when shooting a light source for a unique style of diffusion.

7. Make your own filters

It’s no secret that color is a major element of any image, but you don’t need expensive filters or editing software to experiment with saturation. In fact, you don’t even need to leave your home: all manner of household objects can function as color filters to bring new hues to your photography – and to transform mundane moments into brighter snaps. 

Attach tissue paper to your lens with an elastic band for an instant change of scene, or try shooting through thin fabric with a light source placed behind. Too easy? Take a snap through a laundry capsule for a liquid tone adjustment or use a whisky bottle for sepia shades with a hint of distortion. Petals are pretty effective, too, as are translucent sweet wrappers.

8. Try cross-polarization

This fun project exploits the effect that polarised light has on some plastics. You'll need two polarising filters - ideally one of these should be a sheet of polarising film. You can pick up an A4 sheet of Lee 239 polarising film for £50 (try www.robertwhite.co.uk or www.pnta.com ). The sheet of film should be placed on a lightbox or in front of the only light source. An iPad screen and most computer screens have a polarising filter built in, so if you don't have a sheet of polarising film you can always experiment by creating a white document to fill the screen. Simply attach the circular polariser to the camera lens and rotate it to make the colours appear in clear plastic items

9. Food landscapes

Spice up your food photography! All you need is a set of model figures - Hornby 00 gauge figures are perfect, as they're available in a wide range of poses. Preiser has a great range too. The most important aspect is to establish a sense of narrative. Here you can see that there's a conversation between the characters, with the mountaineer on the 'mash face' being helped by his colleagues on the ground.

10. Fine-art food

Try turning your dinner ingredients into photo art using just a lightbox and a very sharp knife. Slice fruit and vegetables as thinly and evenly as possible, then place them on the lightbox. With the camera positioned directly above, use Live View to focus manually on the details. Set an aperture of f/8 to give adequate depth of field, and dial in some exposure compensation of +1 to +3 stops as the bright light can fool the camera's meter into underexposure.

11. Flowers in ice

A relatively inexpensive way of taking 'kitchen sink' close-ups that look great blown up as wall art. Freeze flowers in plastic containers of distilled or de-ionised water (available through your local auto or hardware store). The flowers will float, so try to weigh them down or fasten them in place so that they freeze under the water. Place the block of ice on top of a clear bowl or glass in a white sink or plate, so that the light can bounce through from below. Position a flashgun off to one side, angled down towards it, and shoot from the opposite side.

12. Abstracts in oil

Oil floating on the surface of water is a great way to make striking abstracts. This table-top photo project exploits the refractive quality of oil and bubbles to accentuate and distort colours. All you need to do is place a few drops of cooking oil on the surface of water in a glass dish. Make sure the dish is supported about 25cm about the table top, then place coloured paper under it and use an anglepoise lamp or flashgun to light the paper.

13. Play with fire

It doesn’t take a pyromaniac to see the photographic potential of fire, but it does take patience, skill and plenty of precautionary measures to capture a stunning action shot of a match igniting. If you’d rather not risk singeing your fingertips, try a different type of flame photography.

Shooting by candlelight alone can lead to magical results. As with any single source of light, it allows you to experiment extensively with shadows – especially if you’re capturing a portrait – while the soft, warm tone and flicker of the flame both contribute to an especially ethereal effect.

In a darkened room, try shooting with a medium-high ISO and a relatively slow shutter speed. Start with just a candle and your subject, before introducing additional elements and playing with positioning. A nearby wall, for example, will throw the candlelight back in different ways, while glass will add to the magic with fiery reflections

Tweak shutter speed to affect the strength of shadows or try adding further flames – though you might need to adjust the white balance if things look more yellow than mellow.

14. Repaint the walls with camera obscura

Familiar with pinhole photography? That technique relies on camera obscura – a natural optical effect that occurs when a small hole in an otherwise sealed space (such as a box) projects an inverted image of the world outside onto the opposite wall. You could make a pinhole camera as an at-home project, or you could go even bigger: with the right setup, you can create the camera obscura phenomenon in an entire room. 

First, you’ll need to black out a room – for example, by taping opaque sheets over your windows. Then you’ll need to make an aperture through which light can enter; the smaller the hole, the sharper but dimmer the image. Camera obscura works best in small/medium rooms, with an aperture of around 10-15mm diameter. Allow your eyes to adjust and determine whether you need to brighten the image by making a larger hole, then marvel as an inverted version of the outside world appears on the wall. 

Capture the entirety of this remarkable natural effect using a wide angle, a relatively long exposure and a tripod, or focus on specific elements of your room to emphasis the effect – such as houses appearing to float upside down on your mantelpiece.

15. Camera tossing

Chucking your precious photographic equipment into the air might sound like something designed to void the warranty, but – provided you’re not too clumsy – camera tossing can deliver some truly spectacular results. Try it in a dark room with a single light source. Set a shutter speed of around one second (roughly the length of time it’ll be in the air) and, as the timer hits zero, launch it upwards. Catching it is the important part, but once you’re comfortable with the technique you can experiment with multiple light sources, different colors and even spinning your camera as you release it.

16. Psychedelic soap film

This is a wonderful project that makes for vibrant desktop wallpaper or abstract wall art. You'll need liquid soap mixed with glycerine for long-lasting soap film, plus a wire loop, a black cloth background and a macro lens of at least 100mm. The colours created by soap film only appear when hit by light from a certain angle, so set up near a north-facing window and shoot from around 45 degrees.

17. Refractive art

Light bends when it passes through water, causing the objects behind to change appearance. This is called refraction, and you'll make use of this phenomenon in this arty photo project. All you need is a few glasses, a flashgun, a tripod and a black-and-white pattern print. Simply place the pattern in the background with the glasses in front. Fill them with different levels of water and move the pattern backwards or forwards to fine-tune the effect.

18. Kitchen close-ups

Your kitchen is an ideal location for shooting a macro project. Its reflective surfaces can be used to create interesting backgrounds for your shots, and a shallow depth of field can transform the most mundane of objects you'll find there. Creating a triptych of images can result in a piece of fantastic wall art for your kitchen too, although it's important to think about how they're going to work together before you start shooting. Here, 3 objects - a fork, a bowl of cereal and coffee granules - were all shot from a similar angle, with the impression of height linking the sequence.

19. Invert the world with a crystal ball

Shoot through a crystal ball and, while you won’t see into the future, you will capture an inverted version of the scene behind the orb. Just as light is refracted when it passes through the glass elements of a lens, the same thing happens with a glass sphere. There are dedicated photography balls on the market, but the effect can often be achieved using a clear marble or even a paperweight. Nothing suitable? A water-filled wine glass can also work. 

All sorts of subjects look good through an orb, from sunsets and cityscapes to abstract items and even portraits. Try shooting with a macro lens to fill the frame with the sphere, or with a wider angle to include some of the scene behind. To really play with perspectives, rotate the image with editing software so that the background is inverted but the scene in the orb is the right way up.  You can also incorporate elements that support the ball into the image, such as hands, bowls or miscellaneous objects.

20. Still-life bokeh

Something as simple as a crumpled piece of foil can be the basis for a creative photo project. Position a still-life subject on a sheet of glass with a piece of dark material underneath it. Scrunch up the kitchen foil then smooth it back out and place it in the background. Shine a table lamp or torch on the foil and, with a tripod mounted camera, dial in the lens's widest aperture to create some beautiful ' bokeh '. During the exposure, shine a flashlight onto the subject.

21. Play with shadows

Photography is fundamentally about capturing light, which is exactly why shadows can be so powerful. They can create contrast with lighter parts of a composition or add texture to an otherwise plain subject. They can even be manipulated to tell a story. Incorporating shadows into your images will challenge you to think not just about the objects within a scene, but how things outside of the frame can affect the light that falls within it.

To play with shadows, all you need is a light source and a solid object to block it. This could be something natural, such as the shadow of a tree cast by sunlight. Equally, it could be something man-made, such as the outline of a street sign created by a car’s headlights. Or it could be something you create yourself: try playing puppet-master by shining a torch and dancing your hand in front of it. 

You can also invert this idea by shooting a subject which is predominantly in shadow and experimenting with how splashes of light fall upon it.

22. Still life light trails

Light trails can be used in all kinds of photography, but they're perfect for a creative still life project. You can use a regular Maglite torch, but try removing the end to reveal the bulb and make the light more direct. Use some electrical tape to attach a coloured sweet wrapper, which you can use as a makeshift 'gel'. Set the canera's shutter speed to around 30 secs with an aperture of around f/8, then start moving the torch within the frame before pressing the shutter. Continue the movement throughout the exposure. Here, we suspended the torch from a piece of string and made a gentle circular movement to create a spiral around the bottle.

23. Light spirals

You'll need to attach a torch, suspended by string, to an open area of ceiling. Fit the widest lens you have on your camera, and mount it on a tripod pointing straight up. With the light turned on, autofocus on the tip of the torch and set the lens to manual focus to lock the setting in. With an aperture of f/11 or f/16 dialled in, use Bulb mode and a remote release to keep the shutter open for a minute or so as you send the torch spinning in the dark…

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Chris Rowlands

Formerly News Editor at Stuff, Chris has rarely been able to resist the bite of the travel bug – so he now writes about tech from the road, in whichever Wi-Fi-equipped café he can find. Fond of coffee kit, classic cars and sustainable gear, if there’s one thing Chris loves more than scribbling, shooting and sharing his way around the world, it’s alliterative triplets.

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Personal Photography Projects: 13 of the Best Ideas

Last updated:

  • February 14, 2024
  • See comments

capturing shadows as an idea for photography projects

Personal photography projects are one of the best ways to help you improve your photography . Being focused on a particular topic you will develop more than if you photograph random subjects. Learning as you regularly take photos for your project will accelerate your progress even more.

We all like to get better at the things we enjoy doing. How we approach our photography has a direct effect on whether we will improve much over time. Taking photos now and then with no real direction will not help you develop your technical or creative skills. 

When you work on personal photography projects you will become a better photographer. You’ll be able to compare your photos over the period of time you are working on your project and see your development.

Using your camera each day, and combining this will some study, will help you build your skill more than if you don’t incorporate any study. Learning a little each day and putting it into practice is the best way to grow as a photographer.

365 Photography

Take photos of one subject, day in the life (day in my life), see everything in black and white, use only one (prime) lens, practice composition one rule at a time, photograph your other hobby, make a personal photography project of your community, volunteer as a photographer, illustrate songs you love, emulate a master, create a photography project book, become a self portrait artist, choosing personal photography projects, how to come up with personal photography project ideas.

Some photographers struggle to come up with project ideas for their personal photography . The best encouragement I can offer you is to make a photography project on something you enjoy a lot. The more you take photos of what you love,  the more exceptional your images will be.

Combine photographing what you love with on-going education. This will build your photography skills more than anything else. Learning a little and putting it into practice often will help you keep your ideas alive and more easily come up with new ones.

coming up with different project ideas.

Make a point of pushing your photography abilities beyond what you are comfortable with. The main risk in photographing something you really enjoy is that you become complacent and capture images that are all very similar. This is why learning step by step as you work on your photography project will help your progress and growth as a photographer.

Ideas for photo projects are important. What’s also necessary is that you are committed to the continuation of your project. If your motivation wanes and you become disinterested, your personal photography project idea will be no fun. This article will help you come up with some good ideas.

Sometimes known as project 365, this idea for a personal project has a long history. I remember reading about the concept of taking a photo a day when I got my first camera. That’s nearly 40 years ago. 365 Photography has remained popular throughout the world because it’s effective.

Taking photos each day for a year will make you a better photographer. Combine this with learning a little about photography each day. You will see a progressive quality increase in your pictures.

photography project book

Doing a search online and you’ll find lists of ideas of what to photograph for the 365 photo challenge . These lists may not be so helpful, depending on what you like to photograph and where in the world you live. I think a personal photography project is more effective and fun when you come up with ideas of what to photograph yourself. These lists can be helpful used as guides for inspiration, but I don’t think they work so well if you stick to them rigidly.

Kevin Landwer-Johan - Project Instructor

Being self-motivated leads to success when doing a 365 photo challenge. Having a well planned and mapped-out study guide helps keep you energized throughout the 365 projects. Having a photo challenge associated with the 365 lessons means you put into practice what you are learning, as you are learning it. 

If you take your focus off having to come up with ideas of what to photograph every day, then you’ll be less anxious. Focus on learning and the ideas of what to photograph will come to you naturally. You could also combine this with some of the following photography project ideas I have listed below.

Concentrating your photography on a single subject eliminates the need to come up with other ideas of what to take pictures of. Find a subject that intrigues you and challenge yourself to take interesting photos of it. 

You might like to photograph your kids or your pets. Maybe you love being in your garden or walking in your local park. The more you can easily incorporate your idea so it’s a regular part of your routine, the more likely you are to succeed. 

You don’t need to photograph lots of different things. Sometimes photographing one subject will improve your photography even more.

photography project on bikes on the street.

This is another well-seasoned photo project idea. Taking photos from dawn until dusk. Following a routine and so that you compile a series of photos that tell a story.

You could make it about any topic that changes during the day. Your own life could be the most convenient. 

Start taking photos in the morning and throughout the day. Keep in mind who your audience might be. It could be friends who know you or people on social media who may not know you. Think about what you are photographing and how people will relate to the images you are presenting to them.

photo of Akha tea pickers.

We see everything in color. Choosing a topic of black and white for a personal project you’ll have to develop a habit of seeing in black and white. This is one of the best photography tips I can give you that will help produce stronger monochrome images.

It’s easy to convert digital images to black and white . Taking photos purposely to display them as monochrome images requires you to think differently. This is a great photo project challenge that can be used in conjunction with any other photography project idea.

The key maker project.

Restrict yourself to photographing everything with one lens. Especially if it’s a new one. Limiting yourself like this, and using only a prime lens, will heighten your awareness. Looking at what to photograph using a single focal length will reshape the way you think about composition.

If you’ve recently bought a new lens, attach it to your camera and leave it there. For a zoom lens, leave it set to one focal length. Try to make as many interesting compositions without changing focal lengths.

photographing caves.

The compositional rules are taught for a reason. Using them often makes your images stronger and they help build your sense of how to arrange elements within your frame. 

Many photographers don’t practice their craft as a musician practices with their instrument. Study the rules of composition. Choose one and work it until you know it inside out and backward.

Look to make your chosen rule the format of your composition for a week, or a month, or longer. Aim to become proficient in knowing when and how to apply it. Then move on and practice another composition rule in the same manner.

woman taking photos with a smart phone.

Photograph things you enjoy. Your images will have more feeling because of the connection you make. Choose one of your other hobbies and create a photo project around it. Maybe you like gardening. Photograph your garden. You might enjoy cycling. Photograph bicycles. Whatever you enjoy doing, think about how you can make an interesting series of images for your project.

photograph of a vintage bike.

Where you live and interact every day. Take photos of the people you meet along the way. Have a story to tell them about what you are doing and don’t be shy to ask. People make a community. Aim to build a collective portrait of the people who inhabit your locale.

Take pictures of the trees, architecture, and transportation. Think about what makes your community unique and make a collection of photos to illustrate this.

Monks working on a project idea.

Put yourself forward and offer to take photos for a non-profit organization. It might be your place of worship, your kid’s school, an animal shelter, a social group, etc. Choose something that will interest you.

This can be quite a challenging personal project because you will have to take photos that meet others’ requirements. This to me is the main difference between an amateur and a professional. Professionals have to take photos to please someone else. They must provide photographs that their clients or editors want.

Being a volunteer will provide you with a wonderful opportunity to grow as a photographer and to bless others with the photos you take.

girl reading a book.

Think about music and how you can illustrate the lyrics of feel of your favorite songs. Engaging with this type of photography project will push you to think abstractly. How can you show an image of what you hear in the music?

Stretch your mind and be as creative as you like. There is no right or wrong way. Be flexible in your intent and the expression of what you enjoy most in the songs you love to listen to.

You could choose to restrict your style to a particular genre that you like to shoot. Maybe you like street photography or macro photography . Use any style you like to be the basis of how you illustrate and have fun doing it!

photograph of a red rooster.

My two on-going personal photography projects are both inspired by famous photographers.

I make photomontages . I first started producing them after seeing a documentary about British artist David Hockney. He was making what he called a photo joiner. This got me hooked. Working with multiple photographs and putting them together to create cubist like artwork is great fun. 

I also produce these as videos. Mainly working with photographs. Sometimes including video clips. I combine them on a timeline and add movement.

Irving Penn inspired my other main photography project ideas. Penn was a master of natural light and had a portable outdoor studio. After reading about it I adapted the idea and made my own outdoor studio. I take it with me when I visit mountain villages here in Thailand and make portraits of the ethnic minorities.

Find a photographer whose work you love and emulate it. This will push you to become a better photographer as you seek to see the hidden style in their photographs and begin to create your own.

portrait of a woman for an outdoor portrait project.

It could be a fiction or a non-fiction book. Think about the story you want to tell and then go about illustrating it with the pictures you take. Plan your book and map out the photos you think you’ll need. 

Set yourself a deadline so your project does not become endless. Think about how many pages you want and how you will publish it. This could be something you plan to give as a gift or use to present as a portfolio of your photography to others.

Many people struggle to come up with ideas for personal projects. Choosing to take self portraits is a great way to overcome this problem. With self-portrait projects, you always have your subject on hand. Your portraits can be made at home or anywhere you feel comfortable.

I’m not talking about selfies you’d take with your mobile photo, but well-composed, lit, and styled portraits of yourself in various situations. Think about how you can include props to make more interesting portraits.

man taking a personal portrait photograph.

This might seem challenging at first for some people. Think about it and how it will help your understanding as a photographer. Particularly if you are someone who likes to photograph other people. Taking self-portraits will give you a better understanding of what it’s like to be in front of the camera. Give it a shot! You may love it.

Whatever type of personal photography project ideas you think of, your commitment to is key. Photographers are often not focused on personal projects or practicing in some way or another. They rely on picking up photography tips here and there and have a random approach to improving their craft.

Tackling the 365 Days of Photography or 52 Week Challenge will make you a better photographer. Being committed to a plan and having a focused purpose you will start to see your photography develop in ways you may never have been able to imagine.

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12 Creative Photography Project Ideas to Get You Motivated

A Post By: Simon Bond

12 creative project ideas to get you motivated

Looking for some fun, creative photography project ideas to get you inspired and excited about taking photos?

It’s always good to be involved in a photography project, and in this article, I’m going to share 12 of my favorite project ideas, including 52-week projects, 365-day projects, and more.

So if you’re ready to find the right project for your needs, then let’s get started!

zoom blur technique

Before you start your creative photography project

As with anything in life, once you have a project idea, it’s important to think it over and make a clear plan of action. This is a big step toward being successful. So if you have a project in mind, before you actually start snapping photos, consider the following points:

  • Give yourself time. Keep in mind the amount of free time you have. Is it realistic for you to complete the project? There are some projects that take a real time commitment; make sure you have a good plan in place if this is the type of project you decide to tackle. And ask yourself: Are there any important events over the next few weeks, months, or year, such as a wedding or a house move, that might make it difficult to finish?
  • Plan out all the details. If your project is long term, perhaps lasting a whole year, then make a plan for how you’ll achieve it. A 365 project is especially demanding, as you need to take a photograph every day. If you can, plan out every day of the project – and make your plan prior to getting started.
  • Allow for the unexpected. There will be times when you get sick, come home late, or your drive or motivation isn’t quite there. The plan you make for your project should include some easy days. Think of it as cooking ahead and having some frozen food in the fridge ready to reheat. In photography, there are always a number of photos that are very easy to take but still look striking. Keep some easier photos held back for times that you need a break.

12 creative photography projects to energize your work

As a year is 12 months long, I’ve included 12 project ideas (though some of them will take all year, whereas others might only take a weekend). Pick your favorite, or – if you’re ambitious! – choose more than one!

1. The 52-week project

This is a year-long project where you take one photograph per week. Tackling such a lengthy project is demanding, but if you can plan out some (or all) of your shots before the project starts, you’ll be a lot more successful.

Note that you can always customize the project to keep things more interesting and/or cohesive:

  • You can have a monthly theme . This might be a month of portraits , a month of landscapes , a month of spring, and so on.
  • You can have a weekly theme . The first week can be shadows, followed by camera rotation , with digital blending after that, etc.

If you want to do regular photography but you’re not quite ready for a daily project, the 52-week project is a great one to pick.

digital blending creative idea

2. The 365-day project

This is an intimidating project to take on, which is why many people go for the 52-week version listed above. However, like a relationship that requires a major time commitment, the reward for this project is often worth it.

Now, the original 365 project required daily self-portraits, which made it even tougher to complete. But a lot of people simply look to take one good photograph per day, be it a landscape, portrait, or macro shot. If you’re not sure how to get started, here are a few ideas:

  • The self-portrait 365 project . Take a selfie every day for a year.
  • What’s on your plate? Photograph your meal every day.
  • Life at sea . Show the different aspects of sea life. This is a diverse project that can include seascapes, macro photos, fishermen, and underwater photography (if you have the gear).

food photography idea

3. Follow one consistent theme

Want to really focus your mind (and hone a specific set of photography skills)? Choose a theme, and only take photos aligned with that theme.

This creative photography project can easily work as a 365-day or 52-week project. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

  • Concentrate on a single technique . Take photos with a crystal ball , using an infrared camera, etc.
  • Have a topic for inspiration . Look at everyday objects and occurrences, then pick a topic that interests you. You might photograph only Chinese food, for example. Or you could do a clothes-related project – you could photograph only denim, or if you’re in Korea, you could photograph hanbok.
  • Photograph at the same time every day. Pick a time of the day and photograph only at this time. For instance, you might shoot every day at 6 PM, which will offer plenty of interesting light (plus, it will change throughout the year).

women dancing in the street

4. Limit yourself to 24 photos

Photographers who photograph film know all about restraint – they will attest to the importance of really considering every photograph. So why not put yourself in their shoes and limit yourself to a certain number of shots per outing, day, or week?

The specific limit is a personal choice, but make sure the number isn’t too large (you want the project to involve some actual work, after all!). Personally, I like the idea of 24 shots – this hearkens back to the days of film – though you can also do 36, 20, or even 10.

To really emulate the feeling of shooting film, try only capturing 24 photographs for one week (no deleting)! With this project, every time you hit the shutter, you need to know you’re photographing from the best possible angle and with the best composition. Learning to successfully shoot with restraint will improve your work in leaps and bounds.

5. Use the title of a song or album

Delving into other mediums can be a great way to come up with a cool creative photography project. A lot of people take a photo, then make a title to go with it – but a better approach for creativity is to know the title of your photograph before you hit the shutter button.

In other words: You determine your photography concept in advance based on your shot title. Then you problem-solve to get the result you need.

You can get your titles anywhere, but I recommend looking to your favorite music album or song. Here are a few additional ideas:

  • The project could use an artist’s album titles
  • You could choose song titles, then turn them into photo titles
  • You can use the lyrics in a song to inspire photos

man sitting on the subway with a phone

6. Use only one (prime) lens

Most photographers own quite a few lenses, not to mention zooms with huge focal length ranges. And while this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, you may find yourself becoming lazy over time – using your zoom lenses, staying in the exact same place, not making a significant effort to really work a scene.

That’s where this photography project idea comes in handy. Simply shoot with a single lens for a day, a week, or a month, and you’ll quickly appreciate the value of careful composition , zooming with your feet, and more.

A really good lens to get started with is the nifty 50 (i.e., a 50mm f/1.8 or f/1.4). The fixed focal length will force you to consider composition more carefully, and you’ll get a perspective similar to the human eye.

Of course, you have plenty of options, and any lens you could choose will have its merits. If you want to get really creative, try using a fisheye, tilt-shift, or macro lens.

three Canon lenses

7. Only use a smartphone

Who says your creative photography project should be high-tech? There’s a lot to be said for stripping your photography gear down to the basics, and your smartphone is perfect for this.

There are plenty of camera apps that can give your smartphone DSLR-like functionality (and you can buy clip-on lenses if you’re looking for added flexibility).

That said, the purest smartphone project will only use your phone’s basic camera app. So don’t be afraid to pack away your fancy cameras and use your smartphone’s native camera app for a week. Focus on what you can do with composition, light, and a perfectly timed moment of capture.

creative photography project ideas photographing with a smartphone

8. Find a story

No matter where you live, you can find a story to tell , though it will likely differ depending on whether you’re in a city, the country, a hot climate, or a cold one. Is your local area famous for any type of food? Are there any famous landmarks such as castles or temples nearby? How about an annual festival?

Once you’ve settled on your story, approach it in the way you’d photograph on assignment for a magazine. Try to tell the entire story. Use a variety of techniques and shoot a variety of subjects.

At the end of the project, you should spend some time picking a final set of photos – not necessarily the best individual shots, but the images that best tell a story. If you get a good result, you might even consider pitching it to a magazine!

magazine spread with woman on a rock in a stream

9. Learn a totally new technique

Once you know how to use your camera, it’s easy to get complacent – to shoot with the exact same techniques, the same settings, the same rhythm. So why not try focusing your project on a new technique?

Learning a new technique can be both exciting and intimidating. It may also require a significant time commitment. There are not many creative photography projects more energizing than learning something brand new, though. Here are some fun techniques to consider:

  • Digital blending . This technique will improve both your landscape photography and your Photoshop skills. There are aspects of blending that are tough to master, but it will absolutely be worth it.
  • Crystal balls . Using a glass ball as a type of external lens is a lot of fun, and it’s a great way to create some unusual photos.
  • Light painting . This is a hot topic in photography. Will you learn to take zoom bursts? How about making light orbs ? Will you use a Pixelstick ?
  • Drone photography . This is another photographic genre that’s becoming increasingly popular. Invest in a drone, shoot with it regularly, and you’ll be on the cutting edge of photography.
  • Hyperlapse . Take a series of photos and turn them into a video. Some of the most creative photography projects out there use this technique!
  • Off-camera flash . Many photographers struggle to master flash; take the time to learn it, and you’ll go a long way.

photography flash strobe

10. Have a potluck photography party

Everyone’s been to a potluck party – they’re the ones where everyone brings along their own food. And the collaborative nature of potluck parties makes them perfect for getting together with other photographers as part of a creative photography project.

How do you organize a potluck photography party ? Each person should bring along the following:

  • A camera body and one camera lens
  • One prop or piece of camera equipment

While everyone will use their own camera to take photos, the idea is that the prop or piece of equipment can be shared – so you might end up with one tripod, or one umbrella, for the entire group. And at every event, the available equipment will be different, offering different image opportunities.

You can come up with a theme for the potluck that everyone must follow, or you can have a theme for your own shots. This one’s a very open-ended project idea, so have fun with it!

photographer on the beach with light all around

11. Follow an A-Z photography list

This type of project can be extremely fun. All you do is photograph the alphabet!

You might start by writing out a list of topics you want to photograph (one for each letter). Or you can take a more spontaneous approach and photograph each letter as you encounter it.

This is a fun game that can be used for group photowalks, or you can play it on your own – when traveling, or simply when out with your camera.

people swimming in rooftop pool

12. A day in the life

A day in the life is a good, short project to work on – because it only lasts one day! Simply find someone whose life you want to photograph and ask them if you can tag along for a day.

Of course, you don’t have to stop there. You can always do a series covering different people. And the project doesn’t have to be about people; life is everywhere, so you could follow your pet or even photograph a natural area.

That said, the best projects do tend to be about people and their lives (a day in the life that looks at different people’s professions is a great choice).

maid putting sheets on a bed

Get started with your creative photography project!

Well, there you have it:

12 photography project ideas to get you motivated! Hopefully, you found at least one or two of these ideas compelling – so pick your favorite, make a plan, and then dive in!

Now over to you:

Have you tried a photography project before? Do you have any favorite projects you’d like to share? Also, which project from this list do you plan to do? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

12 Creative Photography Project Ideas to Get You Motivated

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Simon Bond

is a specialist in creative photography techniques and is well known for his work with a crystal ball. His work has featured magazines including National Geographic Traveler. With over 8 years of experience in lensball photography, Simon is an expert in this field. Get some great tips by downloading his free e-book! Do you want to learn about crystal ball photography? He has a course just for you! Get 20% off: DPS20.

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Our Favorite Photography Books of 2023

The Best Photography Books of 2023

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Remember Me by Preston Gannaway book cover

Remember Me by Preston Gannaway (GOST Books) Read more

Made in America The Industrial Photography of Christopher Payne book cover

Made in America: The Industrial Photography of Christopher Payne by Christopher Payne (Abrams Books) Read more

book cover

Nothing Personal – The Back Office of War by Nikita Teryoshin (GOST Books) Read more

Salt of the Earth by Barbara Boissevain book cover

Salt of the Earth: A Visual Odyssey of a Transforming Landscape by Barbara Boissevain (Kehrer Verlag) Read more

It's not all words here at WIRED. Every one of our stories is brought to eye-popping life on the web and in print by our newsroom's photo desk. Each year, this award-winning team of photo editors compiles a list of their favorite photography books. What follows is a selection of their picks from 2023. (Most were released this year; there are one or two you can preorder for delivery in early 2024.)

The list covers everything from intimate portraiture and human storytelling to the harsh and industrial environments of modern factories and defense-tech trade shows. We know photography books can be pricey, but they’re worth the investment. If you’re someone who can’t find the time to commit to a novel but still craves that sublime experience of being transported to a faraway country or taken on a trippy voyage filled with abstract colors and shapes, then a book of gorgeous photos might be the perfect way to treat yourself.

Be sure to see our other buying guides for books, like our summer reading list , our gift guide for technology books , and our list of the best cookbooks of 2023 .

Remember Me

For the past 18 years, Pulitzer Prize–winning photographer Preston Gannaway has been documenting a young man's journey following the death of his mother. The young man, EJ, was just 3 years old when Gannaway began covering his story. This project started out as an assignment for the Concord Monitor in New Hampshire, but she couldn’t leave it once the initial assignment ended; she had to continue with the family to see what paths this boy took. Her new book, Remember Me, chronicles EJ as he develops into a human despite the loss of his mother, all the while exploring themes of pain, loss, and virility. Color tones tell much of the story. Dark and textured shadows signal deep emotions and feelings of personal intimacy—moments when EJ’s mother should have been there, what she missed, as well as moments that she would have disapproved of. Preston captured many father-and-son scenes to show that EJ is not missing parental love and guidance. It is obvious that this boy and his father consider Preston a part of the family. I can’t imagine the 18 years' worth of work and what lies on the editing floor. We’re going to need another eight chapters, please Preston. —Anna Goldwater Alexander

Made in America: The Industrial Photography of Christopher Payne

Anyone want to capture the ultimate factory photographs? Please hire Christopher Payne. It’s his thing, and he has the market cornered. Look around at every single thing in your view right now. You might see a golf ball, a pencil, a cigar, perhaps a piano? They all originated from some kind of process with some kind of machinery in some kind of factory. Payne’s Made in America is a glorious photography book that compiles his many photographs of industrial spaces. He includes vast over-all factory shots for every production as well as delicate and intimate details, especially when it comes to machines that require help from human hands. Payne tends to keep to an asymmetrical style, much like the film director Wes Anderson. He also is repetitive with circles, which is not surprising for documenting a factory with all the gears, but it helps distinguish his style amongst other interior photography. —Anna Goldwater Alexander

Nothing Personal – The Back Office of War

Berlin-based photographer Nikita Teryoshin will publish his first photo book in 2024, giving the world an exclusive look into the global arms trade. For Nothing Personal , Teryoshin worked at 14 defense exhibitions from 2016 to 2023. Weapons of mass destruction are the project’s focal point. He documents large exhibitions that glamorize the machine gun. He shows us an oversize dessert table decorated with sweets arranged in the form of a missile, a drone display in front of which alcoholic beverages are being served, and a grandiose white prop wall fabricated with numerous bullet holes in a dizzying spiral pattern. —Lauryn Hill

Salt of the Earth: A Visual Odyssey of a Transforming Landscape

Barbara Boissevain began documenting the San Francisco Bay area’s salt ponds in 2010. What used to be a zone of tidal marshes abundant with biodiversity quickly became a wasteland as portions of the bay were utilized as salt evaporation ponds starting around the time of the California Gold Rush. At the beginning of her project, Boissevain’s focus went from shooting mesmerizing aerial photos of the salt ponds to capturing abstract details of what’s beneath the surface, while also documenting the progression of the salt ponds back to their former ecological state. Salt of the Earth is Boissevain’s ode to San Francisco that tells a seemingly rare and hopeful story of combatting the effects of human-led climate change. —Lauryn Hill

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Somewhere 2017—2023 by Sam Youkilis book cover

Somewhere 2017—2023

I first discovered Sam Youkilis’ work on Instagram in 2018, where his work stood out among the endless sea of images. His carefully composed, colorful photographs looked like snapshots but felt like so much more. Two people embracing in a kiss on a sandy beach, elderly men playing chess at the park, a father and daughter holding hands in a crowded city center—Youkilis’ photographs were voyeuristic in the most delicate way, and delicate in the most voyeuristic way.

Since Youkilis photographs primarily using iPhones, sometimes multiple at a time, Instagram was the perfect place for his photographs to live, until now. Loose Joints is publishing his first monograph, Somewhere 2017—2023 . It is a staggering 528-page culmination of the artist’s exploration of beauty in the mundane. By employing the fundamental principles of visual arts, including composition, color, chiaroscuro, and framing, Youkilis surpasses the constraints in both his tools and platform, resulting in every page in Somewhere feeling more beautiful and tender than the last. —Cameron Getty

Dark Room by Garry Fabian Miller book cover

When I was in college as a photography major, we were assigned to create photographs in the darkroom without a camera. I splattered darkroom chemicals and household items (coffee grounds, dyes, wine) and cast light onto photo-sensitive paper and wished for the best. The results were unsatisfactory most of the time, but every once in a while, I’d get something special. From that moment, watching the paper slowly show me something I made using only my hands and various liquids and chemicals, I was hooked on camera-less photography.

Dark Room serves as a memoir of Garry Fabian Miller's photography over the last half century, cataloging the artist’s personal account of creating pictures both in the dark and in the light. The 240-page book maps out the evolution of Fabian Miller’s practice, moving away from the camera-based photography of his early career to the abstract, camera-less method of darkroom picture-making for which he has become internationally recognized. Fabian Miller’s compositions radiate and pulsate off the page as they captivate the viewer with their sheer magnitude and bold colors. Through hands-on manipulation of light across various materials, Fabian Miller meticulously crafts camera-less exposures that manifest as abstract compositions, drawing inspiration from the familial and fantastical landscapes that define the artist. —Cameron Getty

A Hoax A Prank an Internet Scam an Act of Agricultural BioTerrorism book cover

A Hoax, a Prank, an Internet Scam, an Act of Agricultural Bio-Terrorism

In the summer of 2020, packages containing unnamed seeds arrived on the doorsteps of over 85,000 unsuspecting Americans. The packages had been shipped from China, but no one had ordered them. Pending an investigation by the US Department of Agriculture that would later link the shipments to a “brushing scam,” the seed conundrum became fertile ground for conservative conspiracy theories. Some incorrectly speculated that the seeds were a deliberate attempt by the Chinese at inflicting bioterrorism upon the US.

Early this year, Klaus Pichler worked with Nearest Truth Editions to self-publish A Hoax, a Prank, an Internet Scam, an Act of Agricultural Bio-terrorism . The book—which traces this story’s evolution from bizarre phenomenon to purported national security threat to everyday retailing scheme—is a display of Pichler’s sensitivity to the sensationalist potential of unassuming objects. The photographs turn plant seeds into planets, revealing their glimmering and otherworldly landscapes. By Pichler’s own description, the seeds are “a metaphor for how unsubstantiated assumptions can grow into ‘alternative facts.’” —Charis Morgan

Wild Place by Daniel Rampulla book cover

In 2016, photographer Daniel Rampulla embarked on a series of landscapes and portraits which grappled with his early experiences as a young queer person. The resulting work culminated in Wild Place , a brooding reliving of those formative years, published with Pomegranate Press and Handshake Books in 2023.

You will be hard-pressed to meet many gazes while flipping through this book. The majority of the photographer’s subjects exist in limbo between physical presence and emotional absence. Their bodies are stark, but their faces are shielded. Interspersed amongst these anonymous portraits are what seem to be a selection of first-person memories. Shot with bright strobes, the landscapes feel like high-octane flashbacks, and the neighboring portraits read like voyeuristic reconstructions of these critical moments. We move anachronistically through time alongside Rampulla, keeping one foot in his tumultuous past and the other in his investigative present. Wild Place is a formal time warp played out over 72 pages of masterful black and white photography. —Charis Morgan

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The Best Books of 2023

A Smithsonian magazine special report

ARTS & CULTURE

The ten best photography books of 2023.

Our favorite titles this year will make readers feel the power of visual storytelling

Donny Bajohr , Jeff Campagna and Quentin Nardi

BookList-2023-Photo.jpg

The world of photography has left an indelible mark on this year through a stunning array of captivating books. These visual narratives have transported us across cultures, captured the essence of moments and unveiled the extraordinary in the ordinary.

Among the standout releases of the year, Believable: Traveling With My Ancestors by Lola Flash emerged as a poignant exploration of our shared humanity that, at the same time, embraces our rich differences. The juxtaposition of vibrant colors and intimate portraits within its pages is a testament to the power of visual storytelling. Eugene Richards’ In This Brief Life reminisces 50 years of social documentary photography, skillfully allowing the viewer to step back in time. From fleeting glances to transient landscapes, the book beautifully underscores the temporal nature of existence. And Keith Carter’s monochromatic masterpiece Ghostlight uses stark contrasts to convey profound emotional depth. The interplay of light and shadow within its frames serves as a silent poetry, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the quiet narratives embedded in each photograph.

As we close this chapter, these photo books are representative of the artistry and diversity present in the field of photography today. They provide a visual odyssey through the collective stories of our global community, and as we eagerly anticipate the work of this coming year, these books leave an enduring legacy in the ever-evolving tapestry of visual arts.

Believable: Traveling With My Ancestors by Lola Flash

photography project book

New York City-based photographer and LGBTQIA+ activist Lola Flash ’s long-overdue first book is a striking collection of portraiture embracing individuals of all ages, genders, orientations and colors. Flash brings out the beauty within their subjects and ensures that they are truly seen. “Queerness, in Flash’s multiverse, is bathed in color, imbued with love, an embrace: infinitely generous and open,” writes Renée Mussai, artistic director and chief curator of Germany’s Walther Collection , in the book’s introduction.

Believable: Traveling With My Ancestors spans four decades of Flash’s work. “It’s pretty much my whole life stuck in there,” they said during a talk at New York City’s School of Visual Arts earlier this year. It begins with Flash’s potently electric “Cross Color” series, documenting queer Black life as an ACT UP member during the AIDS crisis. Visually, Flash played with viewers’ expectations, printing their images on negative paper, creating a saturated world where colors were reversed (blue is printed as red, for example). That’s followed by Flash’s “LEGENDS” series: portraits of LGBTQ+ individuals who lived their true selves, regardless of societal norms or homophobia, paving the way for others to do so later. And their series “ Salt ” features highly accomplished women over the age of 70 who still have an impact on society—all heroes in the photographer’s eyes. Believable reaches right up to Flash’s ongoing Afrofuturist self-portraiture series, “ Syzygy, the Vision ,” an exploration of the past, current and future oppression of people of color through the artist’s orange-jumpsuit-clad avatar.

Looking back over the arc of a career’s work on these pages, Flash observes “a wonderful cohesion of powerful themes.” They tell Smithsonian , “As a queer person who grew up with a huge lack of LGBTQ+ visual resources, I am grateful to be part of the necessary change toward fairness and inclusion.” —Jeff Campagna

In This Brief Life by Eugene Richards

photography project book

The acclaimed Eugene Richards dove into his archive of 50 years of social documentary photography to showcase mostly unseen work in his latest book, In This Brief Life . Before the idea for the book was born, on his son Sam’s suggestion, Richards posted the photographs to his Instagram, something he had previously avoided. “The Instagram experience ­became a kind of revelation, as viewers sought to know more about the people in the pictures while also expressing wonder at the diversity of my subjects and their experiences,” Richards tells Smithsonian . The experiences are vast, from intimate moments in hospital rooms showing births, injuries and recoveries to scenes in the wetlands of northern Nigeria and the harsh farming landscape of South Dakota’s Gann Valley. “What prompted me, in most cases, to choose the photographs in this book was an emotional response,” says Richards. — Donny Bajohr

Remember Me by Preston Gannaway

photography project book

San Francisco-based photographer Preston Gannaway ’s book Remember Me is a project 17 years in the making. At its heart, this beautiful, meditative work focuses on themes of love, loss, memory and the inevitable passage of time. In 2006, Gannaway, then a photojournalist at the Concord Monitor in New Hampshire, began working on a story about the St. Pierre family, whose mother, Carolynne, was dying of liver cancer. Gannaway grew close to the St. Pierres, and her images led to five stories in the newspaper and a 2008 Pulitzer Prize . A few years later, she returned to the family to continue photographing the youngest son, EJ, who had been only 4 when his mother died.

“There was this looming question: Would EJ remember Carolynne?” Preston tells Smithsonian . “How would she echo throughout his life after she was gone?” Remember Me includes photographs from Gannaway’s time with the family, documenting EJ’s gradual maturation and preserving important memories along the way. “Preston’s always been there, so I don’t really remember a time when she wasn’t there,” EJ, now a senior at the University of New Hampshire, told the Concord Monitor this year. “She’s always been pretty much just close as family.” — J.C.

Wires Crossed by Ed Templeton

photography project book

Artist, photographer and former professional skateboarder Ed Templeton ’s Wires Crossed is an insider’s look at the subculture of skateboarding, blending personal memoir with a documentation of the DIY, punk-influenced sport from the 1990s to the early 2000s. While some photographs capture skateboarders executing seemingly impossible tricks, Templeton’s work shines best in the quiet moments behind the scenes, like his shot of someone strumming a guitar in a hotel room and his collages of polaroid portraits of characters he met traversing the United States on skateboarding tours. “I really wanted to make a photography book for photography fans. I knew the skate world would embrace it. But I needed to not alienate the art world by being too ‘insider,’” says Templeton in a recent Document Journal interview. — D.B.

Shark: Portraits by Mike Coots

photography project book

The waves were particularly good off the coast of Kauai that fall morning in 1997, and 18-year-old surfer Mike Coots never saw it coming. A tiger shark bit his lower right leg, clamping down, shaking him violently, only letting go after he punched it in the head. Coots managed to get back to shore, but his leg was gone. “I felt no pain whatsoever,” Coots said in a recent interview with Surfer . “It happened very fast, the attack itself must’ve been less than ten seconds.”

Despite challenging circumstances, Coots didn’t give up the activity he loved, learning how to surf using a custom prosthetic leg. Surprisingly, the shark attack survivor became an advocate for the conservation of sharks, bringing a unique credibility to conversations. Coots helped pass Hawaii’s 2010 ban on the possession and sale of shark fins, even speaking at the United Nations and the U.S. Capitol. During his recovery, Coots discovered photography, a hobby that has since become his profession. His photographs capture the sea and human interactions with it.

Coots’ new photo book, Shark: Portraits , shows off his striking images of sharks—tiger sharks, great whites, lemons, oceanic white tips—in Hawaii, Mexico, the Bahamas, the Maldives and beyond. He isn’t afraid to get up close and personal with what he considers the “greatest muse on earth,” free diving and scuba diving, often with no cage. “The first thing you notice while diving with sharks is how beautiful they are, with some even having individual personalities,” Coots tells Smithsonian . “The goal of my shark photography is to show sharks in a beautiful, authentic light.” — J.C.

Painting Photographs by Alice Wong

photography project book

Artist Alice Wong mines her archive of found images and puts paint to picture in her first monograph, aptly titled Painting Photographs . Taking a variety of vintage photographs of strangers from the past, such as an actress’ headshots, a couple happily cheesing for the camera at a cocktail bar, postcards of horsemen and cutouts from old magazines, Wong uses acrylic markers to add bold color and liveliness. Not all the overpaintings are of people; some feature dogs, landscapes and close-ups of flowers. All of the ubiquitous images of the American experience are given new life with the colorful palette of Wong’s whimsy. In the book, Bruno Decharme , pioneering French collector of Art Brut , says she “invites us on an inner voyage” and “creates a different kind of narrative, a truth that is her own.” — D.B.

Sneaker Freaker: World’s Greatest Sneaker Collectors

photography project book

Sneaker Freaker: World’s Greatest Sneaker Collectors is a feast for your eyes. Or, perhaps more accurately, your feet?

Vintage footwear, skate shoes, basketball high-tops, and more are on gorgeous display in the seven-pound, 752-page anthology of sneakers. It even has a glossary for the uninitiated, with all the terms you’ll need to become a sneakerhead—or, a “footwear obsessive with a vast knowledge of history and likely to spend of their money on fresh sneakers.” For the already initiated, it’s still worth reading, as it covers essentials for the shoe collector, like the best ways to photograph, clean, repair and store your kicks (keep those original boxes, folks!) and to sniff out fakes.

Sneaker collecting is about quality, not quantity, Simon “Woody” Wood, the editor in chief of Sneaker Freaker magazine, tries to argue in the book’s introduction: “This is not just about putting big numbers on the boards, though accumulating hundreds—and sometimes thousands—of pairs is the natural progression.”

World’s Greatest Sneaker Collectors introduces readers to an interesting cast of characters—from Elliot Tebele, with his unbelievable compilation of game-worn Air Jordans, to Lee Deville and his obsessive quest to collect every Asics collaboration ever made. German sneakerhead Julia Schoierer, known for her love of Adidas high-tops, has nearly maxed out her apartment’s shoe capacity thanks to her passion for the hobby. “When I go to bed, I’m not praying for better health—I’m praying that I won’t be buried underneath a collapsing shoe rack next to my bed,” she says in the book. — J.C.

Ghostlight by Keith Carter

photography project book

“I don't mean to sound melodramatic, but I’m pretty sure there are ghosts here,” says American photographer Keith Carter about Southern wetlands, in his latest book Ghostlight . I would have to agree after looking at the more than 100 black and white photographs in the book. Traversing swamps, marshes, bogs, fens , bayous and baygalls across Georgia, Louisiana and his home of East Texas, Carter creates haunting photographs that invoke the imagination. The collection includes mysterious portraits of locals, but it’s the animals and landscapes captured in macabre detail that make the book. Photographs of alligators popping just above the surface, endless moss hanging in the water, and deceased woodpeckers put on display only hint at the secrets of this harsh environment. — D.B.

The Horses by Gareth McConnell

photography project book

The Horses is a beautiful, candy-colored acid trip of a book. Irish photographer Gareth McConnell began this equine series when he was sent on assignment for the New York Times “Voyages” issue to Skeidvellir, a town about 50 miles east of Reykjavik, to depict the diminutive Icelandic horses. Visually, he wanted to make it abundantly clear the series wasn’t documentary work, opting instead for a more psychedelic approach. McConnell photographed his pony-sized, poofy-maned subjects both indoors and outdoors using flashlights, colored gels and, at times, an analogue film camera, creating highly saturated, dreamlike imagery. The title of McConnell’s book is derived from an Edwin Muir poem, “ The Horses ,” and the only line of text in the book, the highly appropriate, “Late in the evening the strange horses came,” is a quote from that poem.

“I didn’t want to impose any didactic reading, there is no text other than one line … so it can be: ‘Wow, it’s a book of unicorns and psychedelic My Little Ponies,’” McConnell tells Smithsonian . “Or it can be a darker reading—horse as a metaphor for man’s will imposed on others, for the broken bond with nature and with him/herself with the great creating force.” — J.C.

Still Life by Doan Ly

photography project book

Still Life is a photographic celebration of the work of New York City-based florist, artist and photographer Doan Ly . Her blend of skills is on full display in floral arrangements masterfully photographed in playful and surprising ways.

The book begins with a quote from the artist: “I want to be caught off guard. I want to see anew. I want to experience a quiet moment that is larger than life. I want to learn something, but mostly, I want to share beauty and bring joy.” As you flip through Still Life , the moments of beauty and joy are instant; flowers posed for portraits with a human-like quality delight. While much of her work suggests inspiration from Old Masters’ still life paintings, Ly’s work feels current with her masterful usage of color and lighting. Ly also finds muses in the people around her. For instance, her driver for a photo shoot once gleefully joined in the fun, posing intensely with a flower arrangement draping down her back as if it had been a part of her for her entire life. — D.B.

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Donny Bajohr | READ MORE

Donny Bajohr is the associate photography editor at Smithsonian . You can follow him on Instagram @donny_bajohr .

Jeff Campagna

Jeff Campagna | | READ MORE

Jeff Campagna is a photo editor at Smithsonian magazine. You can follow him on Instagram at @jeffcampagna .

Bridging Tech and Creative Photography

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The Book That Can Save Photography

Chris Gampat The Phoblographer Jamel Shabazz Albums review 3.21-400s400 13

I turned 37 this month, and I often look around at the world of photography while trying to reinforce that what we do is art. With the way that technology changes so quickly, most people associate photography with content instead of art. That’s because of our failing arts education system worldwide — which does a terrible job of showing people how it can be art. And one of the best ways to do it is to show off more prints. Prints aren’t necessarily treated like a random swipe through a portfolio on Instagram, they’re often looked at with more revereance. The book Jamel Shabazz: Albums, bring the dream to life.

This is a book of albums he carried around with him and showed to the people he’s photographed. It’s something that he’d show people as he went around taking portraits. “With all due respect, I’m a photographer. When I look at you and your crew, I see greatness. If you don’t mind, I’d like to take your photograph.” And then he’d whip out albums to show his prints like a portfolio.

Jamel Shabazz: Albums is, quite literally, scans of those albums.

“Shabazz may describe himself as an alchemist. But to that I’d add a dreamer.” A line by Deborah Willis

The book also details how te would teach conflict resolution using a chessboard. And he’d get people to trust him with orange juice and some bananas. It’s all just a testament to how great the man is.

Within the book itself, photographers will find albums of photos of West Germany and Rikers Island. It’s fascinating to think that he was able to do work like this. The images are understated in that very few other people were able to do work like this. Artistically, the images don’t lend themselves to technical excellence – but instead to human excellence. And often, that’s the more difficult thing to do.

photography project book

Page through the book, and you’ll realize that you often need to rotate it and interact with it the way you would with an actual photo album. I love this fact. Unlike actual photo albums, the images aren’t covered and sleeved. Instead, it’s made on real paper. The paper has a bit of sheen, but not enough to be annoying. The paper feels like a textbook — thought it’s actually worth the price of what it costs instead of being majorly inflated like textbooks often are.

You’re supposed to sit and look at the photographs. And I like that the book is so interactive. Very few photo books make me want to cry, but this one is holistically excellent. Images aren’t split down the middle, and instead you need to physically really interact with the book to make it feel more special.

Jamel Shabazz: Albums is a book that every portrait photographer should consider getting — and that every photographer should have on their shelf. There hasn’t been a book like this that really makes you interact with the medium to see the images for what they really are. And if anything, it should inspire you to make your own album of prints to bring around and show people when you can.

photography project book

Jamel Shabazz: Albums receives five out of five stars from us, and an Editor’s Choice award as well. Pick up a hardcopy from Amazon .

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I was born and raised in a working-class city, Elektrostal, Moscow region. I received a higher education in television in Moscow. I studied to be a documentary photographer. My vision of the aesthetics of the frame was significantly influenced by the aesthetics of my city – the endless forests and swamps of the Moscow region with endless factories, typical architecture and a meagre color palette. In this harsh world, people live and work, raise children, grow geranium, throw parties and live trouble, run a ski cross. They are the main characters of my photo projects.

I study a person in a variety of circumstances. We blog with friends with stories of such people. We are citizen journalists. In my works, I touch upon the topics of homelessness, people’s attitude to their bodies, sexual objectification, women’s work, alienation and living conditions of different people. The opportunity to communicate with my characters gives me a sense of belonging and modernity of life.

My photos create the effect of presence, invisible observation of people. I don’t interfere with what’s going on, I’m taking the place of an outside observer. I’m a participant in exhibitions in Rome (Loosenart Gallery), Collaborated with the Russian Geographical Community.

30 Under 30 Women Photographers 2021

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  • --> --> Our 6th Year Anniversary ARTPIL / Prescription .141 Matthew Hong / 2023 International Here we are again, this time, rounding out our sixth year with 4,000 pages of Articles , Profiles , and Announcements in our growing archive and over 3.5 million visits strong. A very exciting journey it has been, indeed. With our sixth year anniversary Prescription , we continue to move forward. (more…) Show Post > See Full Article >
  • --> --> Senta Simond Photographer Featured Profile After studying aesthetic and theory of cinema at the University of Lausanne, Senta Simond completed an M.A. in Photography at ECAL, University of Art and Design in Lausanne, Switzerland. (more…) Show Post > See Full Profile >
  • --> --> Gayle Chong Kwan: A Pocket Full of Sand Feb 10 – May 11, 2024 John Hansard Gallery Southampton, UK Exploring colonial histories, geology and ecological deep time, A Pocket Full of Sand unearths both historic and contemporary connections between Mauritius and the Isle of Wight. The artist connects her research of the islands with political and physical structures of power, labour, leisure, childhood and play. The exhibition comprises a multipart installation bringing together moving image, photography and sculpture. (more…) Show Post >
  • --> --> Dorothea Lange Photographer Featured Profile Born Dorothea Nutzhorn on May 26, 1895 in Hoboken, New Jersey, Lange had a difficult childhood, contracting polio when she was seven. The illness left her right leg and foot weakened and she walked with a noticeable limp for the rest of her life. (more…) Show Post > See Full Profile >
  • --> --> Jean Sabrier, Ce qu’on ne voit pas Apr 7, 2023 – Apr 28, 2024 CAPC Musée d'art contemporain Bordeaux, France Jean Sabrier (1951 Cestas – 2020 Bordeaux) was a self-taught and multifaceted artist; for five decades, he developed a protean body of work that stands at the crossroads of art history. His poetic and subtle pieces blend rigour with humour, creating sensory experiences that both enchant and unsettle the viewer. (more…) Show Post >
  • --> --> What They Saw: Historical Photobooks by Women, 1843-1999 Feb 23 – Jun 7, 2024 Museo Reina Sofía Madrid, Spain What They Saw project, a touring exhibition accompanied by a publication and series of public programs, is a means to ignite interest in underexposed and undocumented photobooks by women made between 1843 and 1999 and to begin a process of filling in the gaps. The present show is organized in collaboration with 10×10 Photobooks (more…) Show Post >
  • --> --> Laura Pannack: Youth Without Age and Life Without Death Publication Guest Editions International The inaugural photobook from fine art photographer Laura Pannack. Youth Without Age and Life Without Death marks the first chapter of a long running project in which the artist uses large format photographs, polaroids, drawings and personal notes to grasp at the intagible and explore her connection with time itself. (more…) Show Post >
  • --> --> An-My Lê: Between Two Rivers Nov 5, 2023 – Mar 16, 2024 MoMA New York, USA For 30 years, the photographs of artist An-My Lê have engaged the complex fictions that inform how we justify, represent, and mythologize warfare and other forms of conflict. Lê does not take a straightforward photojournalistic approach to depicting combat. Rather, with poetic attention to politics and landscape, she meditates on the meaning of perpetual violence, war’s environmental impact, and the significance of diaspora. (more…) Show Post >
  • --> --> Lingam. K: Echoes of melting blue Nov 29, 2023 – Mar 25, 2024 Museum of Australian Photography / MAPh Monash, Australia Lingam. K is a research and lens-based artist interested in narrating the complexity of our relationship to nature and how it’s tied into culture and the modern world. In 2023, he spent two months in Iceland as part of an artist residency with The Association of Icelandic Visual Artists (SÍM), an extension of his ongoing research into melting glaciers in the Himalayas. Echoes of Melting Blue is the creative outcome of that residency. (more…) Show Post >

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iPhone Photography Basics: How to shoot a 365 project

W hat better way to learn the iPhone photography basics than by capturing an image every single day for a whole year? A 365 project might sound like a daunting task, but when you consider the thousands of photos that likely already exist on your iPhone or on iCloud , it’s an entirely doable challenge. In fact, there’s a good chance you use your iPhone camera almost every day anyway. The only difference here is that you’re going to be taking your photography that little bit more seriously so you can develop your skills as an iPhone photographer. 

Embarking on a 365 project will immediately give you a goal to work towards, adding a sense of purpose to the photographs that you capture. And if you plan your days effectively, you’ll be able to throw in your fair share of challenges along the way. This is integral in allowing you to develop your photography skills, just make sure you don’t become too ambitious too quickly. Just like an endurance race, a 365 project is a marathon, not a sprint. Shoot three sunsets and four sunrises in the first week and there’s no way you can keep that level of commitment up. 

So, if you’re thinking about starting a 365 project today, here are a few tips to help you avoid throwing the towel in so you can journey forth and become a better photographer…

Brainstorm photography ideas

There is quite simply no genre of photography that doesn’t benefit from planning. And a 365 project is no different. If you leave capturing your photo to the last minute every day, you risk running out of ideas and becoming frustrated. You certainly won’t be capturing your best work. 

As soon as you commit to a 365 project, brainstorm your ideas. Your iPhone’s Notes app is a great way of doing this, so you have access to them at all times. Write down the various genres you’d like to try and then get more specific with particular mini projects you’d like to work on. You can then start to plan your time more effectively and shoot more ambitious images.

Avoid unrealistic expectations

Vowing to capture 365 images in a single year is a huge undertaking and it’s easy to become disillusioned, especially if you set unrealistic expectations. A 365 project is anything you want it to be: a visual diary of your life, an excuse to take photos or a practice regime that allows you to build your skillset. Just don’t expect to capture an award-winning iPhone image every single day. Even the world’s best photographers would struggle to shoot their best work on such a consistent basis. 

Instead, allow yourself to find creative ways to come up with easy wins on days when you’re busy and save more ambitious projects for the days when you’ve got the time. If all you manage to capture is an artistic ray of window light, highlighting the cup on your desk one day, that’s not a problem. And while you should try your best not to miss a day, if you do, simply shoot two photos the next day and move on.

Keep a camera with you at all times

If you were shooting with a dedicated camera, this would be an extremely important step. But it highlights the real beauty of iPhone photography and why – even as a seasoned photographer – I take my iPhone Camera seriously . It’s the camera that’s always by your side, making it arguably the best camera you could use for a 365 project.

Whether you’re on your way back to the office with your lunch and you spot a fantastic piece of architecture, or you’re walking the dog in the evening and are met with beautiful golden light, or you’re off on a city break, your iPhone is the camera that’s always by your side.

Experiment with genres and iPhone tech

Experimentation is key if you want to use your 365 project to develop your skills, but it’s also a great way to get to know your iPhone camera inside out. I’m willing to bet that most iPhone photographers keep their camera on the main wide-angle lens and don’t deviate further. This is your chance to experiment with different lenses: try shooting a fun portrait with the ultra-wide-angle lens or if you’re lucky enough to have an iPhone 15 Pro Max , put that brand-new 5x telephoto lens through its paces. Explore functions like Pano, Portrait, and Night modes. Apply a filter and shoot in black and white or finally get round to learning how to edit iPhone photos the right way by delving into the Photos app’s editing functions. 

Challenge yourself

Just as you don’t want to set yourself unrealistic expectations, you also don’t want to go too far the other way. If all you do is take a quick snap every day, with little thought regarding composition , the quality of light, or whether or not you’re using the right lens, you simply will not improve as a photographer. You need to push yourself out of your comfort zone at certain times throughout the year. This might be trying a different genre like street photography or portraiture, it might be learning more about your iPhone camera and using the various features to their fullest. Either way, you have to push yourself to get better.

Share and collate your images

There really is something special about seeing a body of work. In a world where digital photography means we can shoot and move on, and the time-sensitive nature of digital media means articles and images are soon lost to the annals of time, seeing a collection of your images in one place is a really satisfying way to chart progress. It’s one of the main reasons why Instagram became so popular, after all. 

Creating an Instagram account for your 365 project is a fantastic way of collating your work and sharing it with others. It also gives your project an additional purpose and allows you to receive constructive criticism, garner inspiration from other accounts and receive positive comments to motivate you further. And if you don’t want to share your project online, you can create a folder in the Photos app, so you can still collate your work and browse through it in one place.

Find a photography partner

Persuading a friend, or even a group of friends, to partake in a 365 project is a great way to stay inspired and motivated, while also introducing a healthy dose of competition. This allows you to really immerse yourself within the project. Encouragement will spur you on and constructive criticism will help you develop. You may even find yourselves heading out together and becoming more ambitious with your efforts. But easily the most valuable by-product of teaming up, is an added sense of accountability. If you ever find yourself disillusioned or lacking the motivation to continue, your photography partner will be there to lift you up and encourage you to push on.

But I’m too busy to take a photo every day… 

Photography should be about having fun. Force yourself to embark on a 365 project and it could have an adverse effect. If your life is simply too busy for a 365 project right now, you can still use almost all of the tips above, but apply them to more manageable, mini projects. This might be taking a photo every time you walk the dog, only capturing black and white photography for a month, or focusing on a street photography project during a city break. Multiple ‘mini projects’ throughout the year may prove just as valuable as a 365 project. You're on the right track as long as you’re motivated to capture photos regularly.

 iPhone Photography Basics: How to shoot a 365 project

Photo of Nikita Zhirkov

When the landfill site is closed, discharge water filtration and clarification equipment is installed, the territory is covered with specific material and backfilled. Then many tubes used to purify gas are installed. The greatest danger in landfill restoration is the groundwater contamination. In and around Moscow there are a few dozens of waste deposits, some of which are growing higher than multistoried residential houses standing nearby.

photography project book

During my work on the project, I visited 7 landfills in Moscow and the Moscow region. Some objects were guarded, and it was so absurd that the guards actually guarded a heap of rubbish.

While in these landfills, I saw that the liquid produced by the rotting waste flows out of the pipes sticking out on the slopes into the nearby rivers. Working on this project I wanted to show the rubbish not in the way everyone is used to see it. What is seen in front of our eyes is hilly landscapes, hiding million tons of consumer waste — a typical view of the contemporary system. We do not always see what is hidden.

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Nikita Zhirkov

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Piecing together Black History: A reading list of books to awaken your spirit

Black history month: brevard journalist pieces together the stories of our lives through books that left a personal impact, including narratives from florida..

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As a child, I learned quickly that two histories were at work in America: the one taught in school about a young, virtuous George Washington refusing to tell a lie about chopping down the cherry tree. And the other, retold by my grandmother at home, about a people lynched, strung up from any tree whose branches were strong enough to bear the weight of hate.

One story — now deemed a myth by some — was celebrated. The other, hidden for the most part and still diminished today in school curriculum , books children can read and from discussions about the reverberations that continue to impact our country.

In the U.S., history — especially Black history — is too often treated as something elusive. 

This is the present, after all; the battles have been won, the ground plowed and the ancient footsteps of the oppressed and defeated left silent among the rubble. To the victor, to paraphrase the well-worn saying, go the spoils of written history. All pieces of a puzzle left to others to sort out.

But this is Black History Month , a concentrated period of time meant to highlight the lives of Black people. Here we get the opportunity to drill down on those stories that highlight the passions and perseverance and influence of African-Americans. I think back to my grandmother, Beatrice Waltower, and how she encouraged me to delve into these other stories as a way to help me grasp a greater point. She was a woman who had worry hammered into her from growing up in a small Georgia town to living through the Augusta riots of the early 1970s.

Stories like those of a young Rockledge teen named Rosemary McGill who marched with Martin Luther King Jr.. Stories like those of civil rights-minded students who resisted segregation by sitting at any Woolworth’s counter in 1960 for a flavorless hotdog and icy Coke.

As someone who is keenly interested in improving literacy among our youth — and as a cofounder of the Little Black Book Drive of the Space Coast which has given out hundreds of free books on Black history and STEM — I know that reading remains a vital way of understanding who we are as a nation and where we are going as a people.

Here, in recognition of Black History Month, are a few books that have had a strong impact on my life and work, books that can be as horrific as they are hopeful. Not all of these are classics, but these are collections that awakened my spirit. Books can and should be allowed to do that. 

Take a look.

More: Black Floridians grow increasingly frustrated over DeSantis' moves as election year looms

"The Color Purple" by Alice Walker

"The Color Purple " by Alice Walker: This fictional work is difficult, in language, as the story weaves a grand picture that at its core is very human, raw and filled with uneven resolutions.

Published in 1982, it didn’t cross my radar until I was a freshman at Fort Valley State University, a small, rural historically Black college deep in the heart of Georgia. There was a special showing one cool night, and it wasn’t my intention to go, but an upperclassman walked up and asked if I wanted to see it. I was floored by what I witnessed on that big screen. My newfound friend cried when Celie was struck with a rock. 

It quickly put me in the mind of the dirt-floor stories of struggle and strain I heard from my grandmother and other older women in my family. One relative described abuse that included having her fingers popped like snap beans by her husband. But as a child, I just didn’t get it.

That next school break after seeing the movie, I went home, put aside my comic books, turned off the radio and checked "The Color Purple" out of the library. It was a difficult read for the first few pages, narrated by a young girl living about the time my grandmother was born, her body broken by incest, writing letters to God describing a life interrupted by sexual abuse.

But I found myself captivated and read the book in less than 48 hours, my imagination caught up in the world of Celie, Mister and Shug Avery. It made me understand that so many women — and men — saw their potential, their dreams, beaten down by the challenges of life but found space for humor and innovation.

This book, controversial to say the least, taught me the empathy I lacked when I heard the stories of family abuse as a child. It’s hard to explain but also seeing the protagonist learn love in a non-traditional, queer way directly challenged my conservative religious values. 

God, this book taught me, more than any Sunday preacher, sees us. All of us are worthy of dignity, even if you disagree. Perhaps this is why for so many, reading it is forbidden. 

It also taught me no matter what, people will seek to thrive and seek love, like a purple flower reaching for light, waiting for praise. My mother, before her death in 2000, thanked me profusely for showing her the movie, like my friend so many years before did for me at Fort Valley. 

"Arguing About Slavery" by William Lee Miller

"Arguing About Slavery" by William Lee Miller, a professor of political and social thought at the University of Virginia. I include this nonfiction book even though the author is white. Still, reading this scholarly work — which uses congressional and state records to look at how slavery was seen as a God-given right by some and an abomination by others — was an important voice to hear. This book made it understandable to me that some modern political arguments, those to set aside or diminish the impact of slavery on our institutions and mores, are really without true standing. History can be as damning as it is forgiving. 

These were privileged men literally arguing — in sometimes dry, legal terms — in notes and letters or speeches over the value of the Black lives that brutally bore the weight of the Southern economy. I remember picking up this book at a newsroom giveaway at the Augusta Chronicle as a 20-something-year-old. It sat lonely on the table and although even I was passively interested, that changed. It was my first deep dive into an understanding of how slavery was ensconced in the flesh of America, from the Constitution to our nation's laws.

There are no doubt other books that can tell this dark chapter of American history better. " The Slave Narratives , " for example, gives personal, wrenching accounts of the formerly enslaved. Slavery, this book shows, was a deliberate system that a whole culture fought and died for. You can still see the clear line from this period in American history to arguments over states' rights and other issues. The book was eye-opening and deeper than anything ever presented in my public school books. 

More: 'It hurts': Black Seminoles journey to reclaim identity, history from Florida to Oklahoma

More: 'Little Black Book Drive' strives to inspire kids with focus on literacy, history

"The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Malcolm X with Alex Haley

"The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Malcolm X with Alex Haley. Another book I read in college out of pure curiosity. Malcolm X was always a mysterious Black militant figure to me growing up, with a narrative shaped by the mainstream media and Christian ministers frightful of the rhetorical threat he posed to impressionable church kids. My intrigue about who he was beyond the sharp, brutal rebuttals of white supremacy also came before the movie, "Malcolm X," directed by Spike Lee. 

What I read in the pages of this book sounded at times horrific, nightmarish, foreign, yet thought-provoking. This was the story of a little boy raised in a dysfunctional home and whose father was killed by the Ku Klux Klan, leaving his mother struggling with mental illness as a result. Then came street life, prison. The crush of being disappointed by your heroes.  

It was painful. But what really drew me in, as someone who fell in love with the Hebrew Scriptures, was Malcolm’s spiritual transformation as he exited the Nation of Islam for a more Orthodox version of the Muslim faith. Then came all of the ironies, gaining a worldview outside of America, seeing with surprise Black airline pilots; watching as Muslims from different backgrounds broke bread during the Hajj but returning to the U.S. to be threatened by his own. The book is a insightful powerhouse. 

"LaBelle Cuisine" by Patti Labelle

"LaBelle Cuisine" by Patti Labelle. Now this is fun. Anyone who knows me understands my love for cooking. My grandmother — whose crispy-edged pancakes, buttery tea cookies and fresh-made lemonade were heaven-sent sins — taught me how to make eggs and shared her secrets for bacon grease. 

My first cookbook was purchased by my mother Beatrice, who, when I was 13, put together her change and bought me my first leg of lamb to try out a pineapple-glazed recipe from that book. The entre was complemented by sweet potatoes, wild rice and veggies. The "Po House Grill" was in full effect.

As my tastes changed for religious reasons — no pork, no shellfish — and my grandmother’s passing, I left behind that world of black-eyed peas, collard greens and other soul food delights. But then came R&B singer Patti Labelle’s very accessible cookbook published in 1999. I gifted it to my wife Rolanda, but the best present came with the connection it gave me back to the tastes and smells of my grandmother's kitchen. Patti, through those pages, taught me to sauté spinach, drop salmon croquettes, season my greens (I like my greens tender!) and introduced me to smoked turkey as a substitute to the fatty hams, pickled pigs feet and pig ears found on our kitchen tables all those years ago. 

Let my wife tell it: It was Patti’s recipe (with my own adaptations) for sweet potato pie that did it for her. The greatest compliment was hearing an 80-year-old plus woman in Melbourne tell my wife that my Black Bottom Sweet Potato Pie reminded her of her childhood. 

Have mercy. If I ever meet Patti, I’ll have to thank her. This book takes me safely back to the days when the stories of our ancestors were shared over meals. That book is Black history. 

"The 1619 Project," created by Nikole Hannah Jones

"The 1619 Project," created by Nikole Hannah Jones. Here is a landmark book that, when it appeared as a series of essays in the pages of The New York Times Magazine in 2018, brought a new, vibrant and, yes, uncomfortable voice to the discussion of white supremacy and the harsh brutality of racism in America. It was the 400th anniversary of enslaved Africans being brought to the shores of Virginia. This book — a Pulitzer-prize winning tome — was a painful reminder of that spiritual notion of "how long," as the nation sank into the pandemic while also grappling with the shattering death of George Floyd at the hands of police officers in Minneapolis. President Trump condemned the book. But the story had to be told. 

There were pages detailing the laws aimed at quelling Black rebellions during slavery along with writings on the massacres that followed the botched Reconstruction era. This was the book, akin to a literary nuclear explosion, that kindled efforts in Florida and across the U.S. to censor Black history more fully. 

The book sat on my shelf for over a year until a friend asked me to join a teleconference study group to read it over the course of several months. I am so grateful I did. What I learned from our reading partners, many with the Universalist Church, was fresh insight that rattled my perception of American history. One by one, we listened to each other in groups, young and old, white and Black.

We also bared our souls to share out this troubled history that impacted all of us, crippling us as a nation socially, staving off millions of friendships and connections while crushing the potential for social and economic growth. Last September, we all met in person, read passages together and in our discussions over potluck, we found that there's also room for optimism, the understanding that the mosaic of history is always pushing forward and that perhaps hope could win out. 

"Without Sanctuary: Lynching Photography in America"

One last book, one that interestingly enough, I don't own: "Without Sanctuary: Lynching Photography in America Hardcover," first published in 1999. I remember pulling this book from a store shelf and being haunted by the imagery contained in the pages within. There were men, women and yes, children in various stages of death, some hung, burned or dismembered by white mobs. Even more disturbing, many of the pictures were from Florida. Some of the pictures showed white children staring at the defiled remains.

One photo was taken in July 1926, picturing the body of James Clark, a driver shot and killed on a dead-end street of what is now Parkway Drive in Melbourne. It reminded me of another picture featured in an old Life magazine of a lifeless Black man, body horrifically contorted by ropes and chains. That photo, one of several that showed the bodies of Roosevelt Townes and Robert McDaniels from a lynching in Mississippi, was the same that my grandmother recalled so vividly because it happened in 1937, the year my mother was born.

One of my family's stories has my grandmother, back in the 1920s, heading to Chicago to search for one of her brothers who disappeared after migrating north. He was never found and the fear was he had been lynched. This same woman would sit me down as a child and warn me of the terrors by night, the men, who if you were not careful, would find you and hang you from the nearest tree.

I learned in the narrative of the book of another horrible, hidden history: During the height of lynching, people would gather after church or other socials to watch people get strung up and lynched. Photographs would be taken and printed up as postcards, bought in dime stores and mailed across the country. Quiet as it's kept, it's still history.

At that time, it just felt too ghastly for me to purchase this book. I fell into the mistaken notion that maybe it was too uncomfortable. But this piece of history that so many want to dismiss or hide away is too important not to buy. So, three decades later, I will.

More books that helped shape my thinking

There are so many other books, including ones about Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore, the first modern martyrs of the Civil Rights era, killed in Mims, and books written by Dr. King. Each of these works in their own way helped shape my thinking.

Among those that are Florida-oriented : "Before His Time: The Untold Story of Harry T. Moore, America’s First Civil Rights Martyr " written by Ben Green. Green’s work methodically sheds light on the couple’s life and assassinations in the small north Brevard town of Mims. I have to say also, this book came to life for me even more with my interviews with then-Gov. Charlie Crist, who reopened a state investigation into the Moores' deaths and also a visit to park named after the couple where a reconstructed home where they lived — and were bombed — still sits.

Also, Dr. Marvin Dunn’s " A History of Florida Through Black Eyes ," which helped with my research of the state's Seminole Tribe for a story last year, is another must-read. 

History, as my friend Rosemary McGill would say, is like a puzzle. We all carry the pieces and through connecting with others we can put together the bigger, more graceful picture. We all have a responsibility to tell these stories.

I hope that by writing this particular column, I’ve done that. And I hope, too, that in these times of censorship you will share with me your piece of history. 

We can never forget or get too comfortable.

J.D. Gallop  is a criminal justice/breaking news reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Gallop at 321-917-4641 or  [email protected] . Twitter:  @JDGallop.

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Local Photographers in Elektrostal'

Location (1).

  • Use My Current Location

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  • Elektrostal', Moscow Oblast, Russia

Featured Reviews for Local Photographers in Elektrostal'

What is a home photographer, questions to ask a home photographer:, find photographers near me on houzz, business services, connect with us.

IMAGES

  1. Best of The Digital Photography Book Series, The: The step-by-step

    photography project book

  2. The Complete Portrait Manual (Popular Photography)

    photography project book

  3. The 25 Best Photography Books to Read in 2021

    photography project book

  4. 33 Best Photography Books to Read in 2022

    photography project book

  5. 35 Best Photography Books in 2024 (Updated)

    photography project book

  6. Creating Homemade Photography Books

    photography project book

VIDEO

  1. Final Photography Project

COMMENTS

  1. 50 Photo Projects: Ideas to Kick- Start Your Photography

    Whether you want to get more from your DSLR or are simply looking for new creative avenues to explore, 50 Photo Projects shows you how to break out of your comfort zone and try something new.Packed with invaluable tips on how to create stunning photographs, Lee Frost provides the bright ideas that will reinvigorate your photography, from inspiration on what to photograph, to inventive projects ...

  2. 35 Best Photography Books in 2024 (Updated)

    Master Digital Photography: Pro Tips & Tricks. Amazon.com. $20.99 $29.95. Buy Now! If you buy a product through one of our referral links we will earn a commission (without costing you anything). The Digital Photography Book from Scott Kelby is the number-one, best-selling digital photography book ever.

  3. 13 Photography Project Ideas for Photographers of Any Level

    How to Come Up With the Photography Project That's Best for You. 4 Photography Project Ideas for Beginners. Idea 1: Everyday Objects. Idea 2: 365 days project. Idea 3: Self-portraits. Idea 4: Night photography. 4 Photography Project Ideas for Students. Idea 5: Illustrate a book. Idea 6: Forced perspective.

  4. 65+ Photography Project Ideas You Can Start Today

    15. Star Trails. Spectacular from edge to edge, star trails photography is an adventure to shoot. The first step is to find a clear sky full of stars, but free of pollution and other light interference. Anchoring your camera on a tripod, set your camera to shoot on manual mode. The faster the lens you have, the better.

  5. Top 35 Photography Books You Must Read

    In McNally's book, The Moment It Clicks, invaluable tips and tricks are shared from a well-respected industry professional, making it one of the best books to learn photography. While sharing his work, he shares the stories behind each shot and challenges you to approach your projects differently.

  6. 52 Week Photography Challenge: Photography Ideas and Photo Projects for

    Amazon.com: 52 Week Photography Challenge: Photography Ideas and Photo Projects for a Whole Year • Inspiration to Try Out New Themes, Effects and Techniques: 9781679167232: The Odd Letter Co.: Books

  7. The Ten Best Photography Books of 2021

    The Ten Best Photography Books of 2021. ... Inspired by bird illustrators of the Victorian era like John J. Audubon, the project was a true labor of love, taking over three years to complete.

  8. 50 Photo Projects

    This book could be your salvation. For many, the problem with photography is that we rarely step out of our comfort zone, rarely take risks and all too often shoot the same subjects over and over again. Lee Frost's book should fix those glums as he sets out a plan of 50 projects that should push you out in the fresh air of creativity.

  9. 52 Photography Challenges: One Year of Inspiration To Improve Your

    Written by Phil Ebiner, a professional photographer and photography instructor, this book offers a comprehensive set of weekly challenges that encourage exploration of a variety of photography techniques and styles. ... Photography Ideas and Photo Projects for a Whole Year • Inspiration to Try Out New Themes, Effects and Techniques ...

  10. Our 12 Favorite Photography Books of 2021

    We've asked our award-winning team of photo editors to compile a list of their favorite photography books from 2021. (Most were released in 2021; a few you can preorder for delivery in early 2022.)

  11. Turning a Personal Photography Project into a Published Book » Shoot It

    Howdy! My name is David Teran, a fine art portrait photographer based in San Antonio, Texas. Today, I would like to give you a little insight into a long-term project I've worked on for the past five and a half years. Using just my Hasselblad 500CM and one roll of Ilford HP5+ film for each shoot (rated at 200, developed for 14 minutes in 1:9 ...

  12. 52 photography projects: a great technique to try every ...

    The best home photography projects: 1. Water drop art. The basic idea with this project is to suspend a container of liquid and let drops fall through a small hole, then capture the resulting ...

  13. Personal Photography Projects: 13 of the Best Ideas

    Take Photos of One Subject. Day in the Life (Day in My Life) See Everything in Black and White. Use Only One (Prime) Lens. Practice Composition One Rule At A Time. Photograph Your Other Hobby. Make a Personal Photography Project of Your Community. Volunteer as a Photographer. Illustrate Songs You Love.

  14. 12 Creative Photography Project Ideas to Get You Motivated

    This photo used a technique called digital blending. Doing a 52-week project where you learn one technique a week can do wonders for your skills as a photographer. 2. The 365-day project. This is an intimidating project to take on, which is why many people go for the 52-week version listed above.

  15. 51 Creative Photography Project Ideas • Pixels and Wanderlust

    8. Abstracts in Oil. For an abstract photography project that you can easily do at home, all you need is oil and water. When oil floats on water's surface, it creates a compelling visual. You can interpret it in many different ways in photography, making for various creative possibilities.

  16. The Best Photography Books of 2023

    Salt of the Earth is Boissevain's ode to San Francisco that tells a seemingly rare and hopeful story of combatting the effects of human-led climate change. —Lauryn Hill. $56 $52 at Bookshop ...

  17. The Ten Best Photography Books of 2023

    San Francisco-based photographer Preston Gannaway's book Remember Me is a project 17 years in the making. At its heart, this beautiful, meditative work focuses on themes of love, loss, memory ...

  18. Jamel Shabazz Albums. The Book That Can Save Photography

    The Book That Can Save Photography. ... He's also a Photographer that has had his share of bylines and viral projects like "Secret Order of the Slice." PAST BYLINES: Gear Patrol, PC Mag, Geek.com ...

  19. A Year With My Camera, Book 2: The ultimate photography workshop for

    Brought up on I-Spy books, her photography books are full of things to collect, small tasks to complete, and checklists to finish. She is a UK based travel and garden photographer, finalist in the Travel Photographer of the Year competition, shortlisted in the International Garden Photographer of the Year competition, published by The Telegraph ...

  20. Anastasiya Novikova

    I was born and raised in a working-class city, Elektrostal, Moscow region. I received a higher education in television in Moscow. I studied to be a documentary photographer. My vision of the aesthetics of the frame was significantly influenced by the aesthetics of my city - the endless forests and swamps of the Moscow region with endless factories, typical architecture and a meagre color palette.

  21. iPhone Photography Basics: How to shoot a 365 project

    A 365 project might sound like a daunting task, but when you consider the thousands of photos that likely already exist on your iPhone or on iCloud, it's an entirely doable challenge. In fact ...

  22. Hills

    During my work on the project, I visited 7 landfills in Moscow and the Moscow region. Some objects were guarded, and it was so absurd that the guards actually guarded a heap of rubbish. While in these landfills, I saw that the liquid produced by the rotting waste flows out of the pipes sticking out on the slopes into the nearby rivers.

  23. Free AI image generator from Microsoft Designer and DALL-E 3

    A product photo of a juice bottle surrounded by paper waves, quilling style, pastel colors. Try it. A sleeping cat lying in the sunlight on a windowsill in mid-day, retro color palettes, shallow depth of field, blurred background ... Use the AI image generator as much as you like, for any project, without spending a penny. It's fast With the ...

  24. Highlighting Black History: Books that left a strong impact

    That book is Black history. "The 1619 Project," created by Nikole Hannah Jones "The 1619 Project," created by Nikole Hannah Jones. Here is a landmark book that, when it appeared as a series of ...

  25. The New Big 5: A Global Photography Project for Endangered Species

    The world's wildlife is in crisis, and the next ten years are critical. The New Big 5 brings together more than 145 of the world's greatest wildlife photographers, conservationists, and advocates in a mission to not only celebrate the natural beauty of the animal world, but to raise awareness of the crucial issues facing these magnificent creatures.

  26. Best 15 Local Photographers in Elektrostal', Moscow Oblast, Russia

    31,434 Local Projects on Houzz by Photographers 1M+ Total Number of Reviews Left by Homeowners If you're thinking of selling or renting your Elektrostal', Moscow Oblast, Russia house, hiring a home photographer can make a big difference between making money and just breaking even.