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The Digital Photography Book

The Digital Photography Book

by Scott Kelby 2006 219 pages
4.10
5k+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. Master the fundamentals of sharp photography

Getting "Tack Sharp" Starts with a Tripod

Stability is key. Use a tripod, especially in low light or when using longer lenses. Invest in a quality tripod and ballhead for maximum stability. Employ techniques like mirror lock-up, cable release, and self-timer to minimize camera shake.

Optimize your settings. Shoot at your lens' sharpest aperture, typically 2-3 stops down from wide open. Use the lowest ISO possible to reduce noise. Focus on the eyes in portraits. In landscapes, use a smaller aperture (f/11 to f/16) for greater depth of field.

  • Utilize image stabilization (IS/VR) when hand-holding, but turn it off when using a tripod
  • Check sharpness by zooming in on your camera's LCD screen
  • Apply sharpening in post-processing using tools like Photoshop's Unsharp Mask

2. Harness natural light for stunning flower and portrait shots

Don't Shoot Down on Flowers

Find the right angle. Shoot flowers at their level or from below for more interesting compositions. For portraits, position subjects near windows with soft, indirect light for flattering results.

Control depth of field. Use a wide aperture (low f-number) to blur backgrounds in flower and portrait shots. This isolates the subject and creates a pleasing bokeh effect. For flowers, consider using a macro lens or close-up filter for extreme detail.

  • Best times to shoot flowers: overcast days or just after rain for saturated colors
  • For portraits, use reflectors to bounce light and fill shadows
  • Experiment with backlighting for dramatic silhouettes and rim lighting effects

3. Capture weddings with professional finesse

Your Main Job: Follow the Bride

Preparation is crucial. Scout locations beforehand, create a shot list, and bring backup equipment. Use faster lenses (f/2.8 or wider) and higher ISOs to handle challenging lighting conditions in churches and reception venues.

Master the flow. Develop a workflow for formal portraits, starting with the largest groups and working down to intimate couple shots. Use off-camera flash with diffusers for softer, more flattering light. Capture candid moments throughout the day to tell the complete story.

  • Set your white balance manually or shoot in RAW for more flexibility
  • Use burst mode for key moments like the bouquet toss
  • Don't forget to photograph details: rings, flowers, invitations, etc.

4. Create breathtaking landscape photographs

The Golden Rule of Landscape Photography

Timing is everything. Shoot during the "golden hours" – shortly before sunrise and just after sunset – for warm, soft light and long shadows. Use apps to plan your shoots around optimal lighting conditions.

Composition matters. Apply the rule of thirds, use leading lines, and include foreground elements to add depth. Experiment with different focal lengths, from wide-angle for sweeping vistas to telephoto for compressed perspectives.

  • Use neutral density and polarizing filters to control light and enhance colors
  • Bracket exposures in high-contrast scenes
  • Shoot in RAW format for maximum flexibility in post-processing

5. Elevate your sports photography game

Shoot at a 1/640 Sec. Shutter Speed or Faster

Freeze the action. Use fast shutter speeds (1/1000s or faster) to capture crisp images of moving subjects. Increase your ISO if necessary to maintain these speeds in low light conditions.

Anticipate the moment. Learn the sport you're photographing to predict where the action will unfold. Use continuous autofocus and burst mode to increase your chances of getting the perfect shot.

  • Invest in fast telephoto lenses (70-200mm f/2.8 or longer) for reach and low-light performance
  • Experiment with panning for a sense of motion
  • Capture not just the action, but also the emotion and reactions of athletes and spectators

6. Maximize the potential of digital photography

Level the Playing Field: Press That Button

Shoot abundantly. Take advantage of "free" digital exposures to experiment and improve your skills. Don't be afraid to take multiple shots of the same scene, varying your compositions and settings.

Review and learn. Use your camera's LCD to check exposure, composition, and focus immediately after shooting. Analyze your images later to understand what worked and what didn't.

  • Adjust white balance and ISO on the fly to adapt to changing conditions
  • Use exposure compensation to fine-tune your exposures
  • Experiment with different picture styles or creative modes in your camera

7. Transform your travel and urban photography

Don't Try to Capture It All: Shoot the Details

Tell a story. Focus on capturing unique details and moments that convey the essence of a place, rather than trying to photograph everything. Look for interesting colors, textures, and juxtapositions in urban environments.

Be prepared. Keep your camera easily accessible and set to program mode for quick shots. Research locations beforehand and visit popular spots during off-peak hours for cleaner compositions.

  • Use wide-angle lenses for dramatic architectural shots
  • Incorporate local people for authenticity and scale
  • Experiment with long exposures to capture motion in cityscapes

8. Perfect your printing and post-processing workflow

Getting Your Monitor to Match Your Printer

Calibrate your workflow. Use a hardware calibration device to ensure your monitor displays accurate colors. Download and install color profiles for your specific printer and paper combinations.

Choose the right paper. Select papers that complement your subject matter: glossy for vibrant colors, matte for softer images, and fine art papers for a museum-quality look. Experiment with different sizes and aspect ratios to enhance your images' impact.

  • Process RAW files in dedicated software for maximum quality and control
  • Use soft proofing in Photoshop to preview how your image will look when printed
  • Consider selling your best images as stock photography for additional income

Last updated:

FAQ

What's "The Digital Photography Book" by Scott Kelby about?

  • Practical Photography Tips: The book provides step-by-step secrets for making your photos look like those taken by professional photographers.
  • User-Friendly Approach: Scott Kelby writes as if he's on a shoot with you, offering practical advice without technical jargon.
  • Focus on Techniques: It covers nearly 200 photographic "tricks of the trade" to improve your digital photography skills.
  • Wide Range of Topics: The book includes tips on shooting sharp photos, landscapes, portraits, sports, and more.

Why should I read "The Digital Photography Book"?

  • Improve Photography Skills: It offers practical tips that can dramatically improve the quality of your photos.
  • Easy to Understand: The book is written in plain English, making it accessible even for beginners.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: It covers a wide range of photography topics, from equipment to specific shooting techniques.
  • Learn from a Pro: Scott Kelby is a renowned photographer and author, providing insights from his extensive experience.

What are the key takeaways of "The Digital Photography Book"?

  • Sharp Photos: Emphasizes the importance of using a tripod and other techniques to achieve tack-sharp images.
  • Lighting Techniques: Offers tips on using natural and artificial light effectively for different types of photography.
  • Composition Tips: Provides guidance on composing shots to enhance visual interest and storytelling.
  • Equipment Advice: Discusses the importance of using quality lenses and other gear to improve photo quality.

How does Scott Kelby suggest getting sharp photos?

  • Use a Tripod: A stable tripod is essential for achieving sharp images, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Cable Release or Timer: Avoid camera shake by using a cable release or the camera's self-timer.
  • Mirror Lock-Up: Use this feature to reduce internal camera movement during exposure.
  • Lens Quality: Invest in good quality lenses, as they make a significant difference in sharpness.

What are Scott Kelby's tips for shooting landscapes?

  • Golden Hours: Shoot during dawn or dusk for the best lighting conditions.
  • Use a Tripod: Always use a tripod to ensure stability and sharpness.
  • Composition Elements: Include a foreground, middle ground, and background for depth.
  • Polarizing Filter: Use this to enhance colors and reduce reflections.

How does "The Digital Photography Book" address shooting portraits?

  • Lens Choice: Use a short zoom lens, ideally in the 85-100mm range, for flattering portraits.
  • Aperture Setting: f/11 is recommended for sharpness and depth in portraits.
  • Natural Light: Utilize natural light from windows for soft, flattering lighting.
  • Focus on Eyes: Always focus on the subject's eyes for engaging portraits.

What advice does Scott Kelby give for wedding photography?

  • Backup Memory Cards: Always have spare memory cards on you to avoid missing crucial shots.
  • Formals First: Start with the bride and groom's formal portraits to manage time effectively.
  • Use Fill Flash: Employ fill flash outdoors to eliminate harsh shadows.
  • Capture Details: Photograph small details like rings and invitations to tell the wedding story.

What are the best quotes from "The Digital Photography Book" and what do they mean?

  • "If Your Photos Aren't Sharp, the Rest Doesn't Matter": Emphasizes the fundamental importance of sharpness in photography.
  • "Become Married to Your Tripod": Highlights the necessity of using a tripod for professional-quality landscape shots.
  • "The Pros Know the Game": Stresses the importance of understanding the subject, especially in sports photography, to anticipate and capture key moments.
  • "Don't Try to Capture It All: Shoot the Details": Advises focusing on specific elements to create compelling travel and city life photos.

How does Scott Kelby suggest using digital advantages in photography?

  • Free Film: Take advantage of digital's cost-free shooting to experiment and capture more shots.
  • LCD Monitor: Use the LCD to review and adjust shots on the spot.
  • ISO Flexibility: Change ISO settings on the fly to adapt to different lighting conditions.
  • Edit as You Go: Delete bad shots immediately to save time and space.

What are Scott Kelby's tips for shooting sports like a pro?

  • Fast Shutter Speed: Use at least 1/640 sec. to freeze action.
  • Multiple Cameras: Use different cameras for different lenses to avoid missing shots.
  • Know the Game: Understanding the sport helps anticipate and capture key moments.
  • Burst Mode: Use continuous shooting to increase the chances of getting the perfect shot.

How does "The Digital Photography Book" suggest handling common photography problems?

  • White Balance Issues: Use preset or custom white balance settings to avoid color casts.
  • Dusty Environments: Avoid changing lenses in dusty conditions to protect your camera.
  • Battery Life: Bring extra batteries, especially in cold weather, to ensure your camera lasts.
  • Avoid Red Eye: Use external flash units and bounce flash techniques to reduce red eye.

What equipment does Scott Kelby recommend in "The Digital Photography Book"?

  • Tripods and Ballheads: Invest in a quality tripod and ballhead for stability and ease of use.
  • Lenses: Use good quality lenses, especially for portraits and landscapes.
  • Filters: Employ polarizing and neutral density filters for better color and exposure control.
  • Backup Devices: Use portable hard drives like the Epson P-2000 for on-site photo backups.

Review Summary

4.10 out of 5
Average of 5k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

The Digital Photography Book receives mostly positive reviews for its practical tips and easy-to-understand approach. Readers appreciate Kelby's humorous writing style and the book's focus on real-world photography scenarios. Many find it helpful for beginners and intermediate photographers, though some professionals may find it too basic. The book covers various topics like shooting landscapes, weddings, and sports. Some readers note that while the humor can be hit-or-miss, the overall content is valuable. A few criticize the lack of technical explanations, but most enjoy the straightforward advice.

Your rating:

The Digital Photography Book Series

About the Author

Scott Kelby is a prominent figure in the photography and design industry. He is an American author, publisher, and educator specializing in digital photography and software training. Kelby has authored over 40 books and is known for his accessible writing style. He serves as the editor and publisher of Photoshop User and Layers magazines. Kelby co-founded the National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP) and is the president of Kelby Media Group, a Florida-based company focusing on software training and education. His expertise extends to photography, design, and Adobe Photoshop, making him a respected voice in these fields. Kelby's work has earned him numerous awards and a dedicated following among photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Other books by Scott Kelby

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