Product Description
10 1/4 x 9 90 color and 30 black-and-white illustrations US Distribution only Photography This instructive manual gives commercial photographers, and those aspiring to be, practical guidance for shooting family portraits that are tailor-made to specific age groups. Ideas range from ways to photograph toddlers who won’t keep still for the camera to tips about sensitive lighting designed to complement older subjects. How to create distinctive portraits of babi… More >>
#1 by Anonymous on May 6, 2010 - 3:38 am
I’ve been searching for some really good lighting books to provide some insight into different methods of working with light and was excited to receive this book. When I got it and flipped through, I was over run with standard stock and uninteresting images.
While the copy is good, and pretty detailed, the concepts are pretty mundane. If you are looking for a book with average key lighting techniques, as well as close lighting ratios (1:1, 2:1 and 3:1) then this book is for you. If you are looking for some fo the more fine art effects, (Drastic lighting ratios, smoothing of skin, etc.) I’d look to another book.
One reviewer mentioned that they were drawn to the book by the cover photograph. This photograph is great and has a fine dramatic lighting set up, there are maybe one or two more in the book on par with this one (style wise), but not much.
Rating: 3 / 5
#2 by Bukkene Bruse on May 6, 2010 - 4:34 am
I was drawn to this title by the striking photograph on the cover and bought it immediately after flipping through it. The strength of the example photographs makes “Family Portraits” case study approach particularly effective.
Unlike many other photography books, “Family Portraits” uses subjects with a wide range of skin tones. Examples include both color and black & white photographs, sometimes juxtaposed for comparison. Since this book is part of a professional photography series, Daye assumes possession of some lighting equipment. For many of the outdoor shots, fill flash and/or a reflector were the limits of what was required.
The photographs in “Family Portraits” are posed pictures. But because they are designed to seem natural, their study may help you notice certain compositions and lighting conditions when taking candids. If you are looking for a good idea book for taking pictures of people, this title is an excellent place to start.
Rating: 5 / 5
#3 by Anonymous on May 6, 2010 - 5:29 am
Excellent, modern take on portrait photography. Great diagrams, simple lighting suggestions and good advice on relating to the subject. Beautiful images — really one of the best photography books I’ve seen.
Rating: 5 / 5