Customer Reviews

Build a Better Photograph: A Disciplined Approach to Creativity

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Michael Stern probably has a lot to tell us about making photographs, both with a camera and with Photoshop. Unfortunately, he doesn't convey much of this knowledge in this book, and what he does convey is ill organized.

"Build a Better Photograph" is divided into four almost unrelated parts. The first shows how the author constructs environmental portraits by building up layers within Photoshop; the second shows how he created a photographic Christmas card for a client; the third shows how he made images from scanned objects, including dead things; and the final chapter shows how he develops product photography. The common thread throughout seems to be the use of compositing to create images.

Unfortunately, he almost explains how he composites images in Photoshop but never quite gives enough information so that the less-experienced reader can actually apply his techniques. In most cases he provides screen shots of the Photoshop layers panels for his composites but he often doesn't explain in enough detail how to use the tools with which he created the layers. He sometimes promises that he will reveal things, and doesn't. Typically, Stern tells you the lighting effects filter is important, but rather than explain it, he tells you to keep practicing with it until you understand it.

Apparently Stern was trying to use images he had created to show the reader the decision processes he used to achieve the final product, but even when ordered in time sequence, the processes are not explained clearly enough to be of use to most people.

On the too much information side, I didn't find it useful to hear about how he preps himself for problem solving by having a conversation with himself before going to sleep, so that he can set a goal for the problems that he plans to resolve in his dreams; or the fact that an early partner did him dirty; or that a procurement officer gave him a hard time. The space he occupies with these meanderings might better have been used providing more detailed information. I also didn't need the continual reminders that he was a professional, as if there were no poor professionals or excellent hobbyists.

A DVD is included with the book but this isn't very useful either. I really don't need to see how Stern does the dishes in the Christmas card studio or how Santa danced when not posing. Quick time spherical panoramas, mostly of his studio, are included on the DVD but there is no mention of them in the book or explanation of how they were created. The most useful things on the DVDs might be the check lists and written instructions on the use of Photoshop tools, but these are written instructions that don't capitalize on the capabilities of DVDs. In fact if this material had been included in the book itself, it might have been integrated into the presentation in a useful manner.

People interested in doing compositing and familiar with Photoshop's tools may benefit from seeing how one photographer uses those tools. Other readers are not likely to find this book useful.

As a rather eager photography novice, Michael Stern's book was in some ways "beyond" me. In some cases, he takes for granted the reader has more technical know-how than I actually do. I "waded through" those parts.

Nevertheless, I found his book informative and inspiring. His professional but personal, informal explanations of the many techniques he uses to make photographs, particularly portraiture, were enlightening and interesting. Most people have no idea of how much preparation, technical knowledge, psychological insights, and expensive photographic "gear" are involved in taking a truly professional portrait - or a significant picture of anything. And then to be successful, the necessities of surviving in the business of it all is truly an enormous undertaking. But Michael does it with seeming aplomb and good-natured humor.

I found the book inspiring in that I will do what I can to apply some of his principles and techniques to my more modest world of amateur photography, but it surely gave me a much greater appreciation and understanding for the work of those who do photography for a living.

Bill in Burbank

I found this book to be an excellent addition to my library of Photography books. I have never before read a photography book where the photographer has reflected so intensely and honestly as Michael Stern does in this book. The deconstruction of his creative process is an invaluable and enlightening experience. I think for readers who are looking for a book that gives short and non-creative technical answers to complex photographic tasks, then this is definitely not the book you are looking for. If, on the other hand, you are looking for something completely different and are prepared to accept Michael Stern as an honest and valuable mentor to guide you to become a better photographer then this book is a rare find indeed.

Michael E. Stern's new book, Build a Better Photograph: A Disciplined Approach to Creativity is loaded with life lessons, advice, technical and creative methodology, and much more. Something every aspiring and professional photographer should read.

This is not a tec heavy tome but a well-balanced book about the business of creativity. There are many things to be learned from Michael's expertise, from how to create composites to what life is like when you have to deal with the corporate world.

Michael's natural teaching ability delivers information in an interesting and easy-to-read way. His enthusiasm for his craft and his never-ending quest to be better at all things photographic come through loud and clear. As all good teachers wish to do, it makes the reader want to be better as well.

To some people, the words "disciplined" and "creativity" are mutually exclusive. Michael has combined them into a tangible action that allows him to always be in control of his product. He describes some of the methods that work for him. Some are straight forward, and some may seem out there. But, the true gift of this book is that it teaches how to ask the correct questions and apply the answers in a disciplined way.

Michael E. Stern is an accomplished professional photographer. In this book, he provides tips drawn from his personal experience, for a successful photography business. Stern essentially handles 4 specific projects: Environmental portrait, compositing techniques, using scanners for macro photography and, product photography. He is very enthusiastic about the projects he has chosen and explains the rationale behind his approach and decisions. Many of his discussions are directed to those who may consider a career in photography. That is why he repeatedly deals with the client relations aspect of the profession, including pricing of the services provided. Certainly, those parts are not necessary reading for strictly amateur people with no ambitions to become a pro.

The examples he has chosen have all been shot under controlled lighting conditions, which is understandable for a pro who has to control every possible variable while shooting. For amateur enthusiasts, like myself, these are not essential, to say the least. Stern provides details on the use of Adobe PS throughout the book. Some more have also been provided in the accompanying DVD. People who like tips and tutorials on using PS for a particular effect (involving many, many layers) may find the provided material helpful. Since I do not use PS, those parts mean less to me (although, I can simulate the effects, if needed, using my software).

The accompanying DVD contains example images, a few *.psd files and some PDF documents. Many of these have been referred to in various parts of the book. The DVD also contains some tutorials and presentations which are outside the scope of the book but can be helpful, nonetheless. In general, the production quality of the book is good.

I am not sure what my expectation was when I bought this book. Perhaps, the word "disciplined" in the subtitle has caught my attention. Was I expecting to see more workflows and the like? Maybe... Unfortunately, in spite of the wealth of information provided in various parts of the book and the DVD, I am not satisfied. I was not expecting a volume which was dependent this much on PS... I was not expecting an entirely controlled environment for the examples... I was not expecting the information in a scattered fashion like this... On the other hand, I admit that there may be others who would love to see even more PS tips&tricks and more examples on creating composite images!

All in all, this book offers good advice for a minority of people with cameras. Rocky Nook, the publisher, has a nice selection of other photography books for a wider audience and I believe for those who do not aspire to become a pro, this particular volume is not an essential part of their library. For those who do, the book offers only a glimpse of the long way ahead...

This review has been a long time coming......

Photoshop,technical and compositional skills are just background and foreground information in picture where your creative process and professional integrity are the subject.

Ultimately this is what I have taken away from Micheal Stern's "How to Build a Better Photograph".

In this book you will see methods to creating composite photos, lighting, editing...you name it.
AND that is all well and good (Really, its useful stuff if you wanna make it). But if you really want to make it you have to look a little deeper into this book and maybe a little deeper into yourself. *From what I have read in some previous reviews there seems to be complaints on how there isn't enough detail about how to achieve some of the photoshop methods Stern talks about using. Look, if you want to learn about Photoshop - get a Photoshop book (I thought that would be obvious). But....

If you want to learn how a working and successful photographer creatively problem solves, learns and grows from mistakes and victories and has created a career level that I think most aspiring photographers dream of reaching - then buy this book.

the real kicker is when you actually think about what you have read (its easy to do!) and compare it to your process, problems and style. Now, I'm going to assume that if you're looking up a book about building a better photograph you are some kind of creative person. whether its in a big or small way - its there. That is perfect. Consider this book a tune up kit for your creative process. Or atleast a means to get you thinking about how to tune up your creative process. Its this "process continuum" that will be the yoke that determines the elevation and distance of your career.

It's in the mixture of Sterns awful and triumphant experiences as well as my own failures and victories that I have been able to develop a process that is perfect for me as a professional photographer. One that will take me EXACTLY where I want to go.

*If you're a novice with photoshop - don't fret. photoshop isn't going anywhere and you have time to learn the software. Think about locking down your internal tools. They're cheaper, easier to upgrade, and compatible with mac and Windows. :)

This is one of the more interesting photography books I have read during my sixty years doing photography. The four chapters of the book are; The Environmental Portrait, Compositing Techniques, 3D Scanning of Found Objects, and Great Product Photography. When just considering the topics, one might think this is a real potpourri of subjects.

But this is more than just a book of technique. The four chapters are autobiographical and reflect his philosophy and approach to developing a better photograph. In one sense, he allows the reader to "get into his thinking process" and that is important because it allows one to better understand how he has been successful.

He reveals in large part how he has marketed and negotiated his commercial contracts. I suspect some readers will be less interested in that aspect of his writings.

The book contains significant information on how Photoshop was used to achieve the specific photo discussed in each section. One soon realizes that a project requires an in-depth knowledge of digital imaging and how to use Photoshop. The examples are not for the neophyte in digital photography.

For those who are looking for the step-by-step technical aspects off digital imaging the book is accompanied by a CD which has several in-depth sections including tutorials covering specific operations or techniques in Photoshop. Also there are brief sections on understanding the basics of digital images, your monitor and printing.

This is primarily a book for photographers who wish to advance their capabilities. For those new to photography and Photoshop, I'd suggest studying the CD material first; then read the book.

Charles Heisterkamp, III, M.D. - Photographer

I was hoping for a more simple approach to Photgraphy. The book is a bit confusing to put into practice. Maybe I need more time with it. Some things just seemed too time comsuming and irrelevant for what I was expecting.

Build a Better Photograph: A Disciplined Approach to Creativity, by Michael Stern, is an inspirational story which challenges the reader to build not only a better photograph; rather to build a better business and improve your creative craft via a disciplined approach to the unique workflow and challenges a photography business entails.

Michael's book is an inspiring story of how the reader can accelerate their success (however success is personally defined) by following a disciplined approach. It is also about the payoff of taking risks, and running your business (yes, photography IS a BUSINESS)using solid business principles. Michael Stern is the epitome of professionalism and this is the driving force behind his story.

For those who have read "Build a Better Photograph: A Disciplined Approach to Creativity", by Michael Stern and complained about it not providing enough "how-to" steps on Photoshop or on crafting a composite image; all I can say is - you MISSED THE BOAT! Michael's book is not a how-to book about Photoshop (Michael is one of the better instructors I encountered in learning Photoshop or the compositing (building) of an image per se. Michael's book is designed to inspire and empower photographers of all levels to reach for, and achieve, new levels of growth. "Build a Better Photograph: A Disciplined Approach to Creativity", by Michael Stern EXCELS at this.

I've been in the photography business since I was six; I wish I had this resource when taking photography classes in college as well a when I had my first studio in the '80's. I can only dream of where I might be today had I followed Michael's disciplined approach to building my business then. As a business owner, I watched my business grow and my imagery change for the better after only one read through of Michael's book. I'm now on the second reading to pick up tips I missed the first time around. For those who have only read "Build a Better Photograph: A Disciplined Approach to Creativity", by Michael Stern one time - read it again with a new mindset!

Michael's book - particularly the first section - resonated deeply with me and inspired me to start building a better photograph for my clients. I adamantly believe a thorough read and understanding of the principles Michael shares with the reader will... change your professional life!

I am the author of the book. I buy copies from Amazon to give away or resell to audience members at my presentations.

Based on feedback from purchasers, friends and colleagues, my book has accomplished what I set out to do with it: help creatives (especially photographers) about to leave school and up to the first five years in business, understand some of what is required to become a successful SECP. (self-employed creative professional)

Through the dissection of my career hi and lo lights, I strove to present an over-the-shoulder view of my thought processes, business relationships and technical acumen.

By all counts I have succeeded.

Thank you all!