Digital SLR Masterclass (Handbook Series) [Hardcover]

Andy Rouse (Author)

Book Description

Series: Handbook Series | Publication Date: August 2004

In this jargon-busting reference guide, professional photographer Andy Rouse answers all of the technical questions existing Digital-SLR users and those planning to convert from film to digital need to ask. From setting up the camera to managing the finished photograph, this fully illustrated book covers the latest developments in digital technology and explains: Basic terminology; The advantages of D-SLR cameras; Technical operation; Key decisions; Digital capture: choosing RAW or JPEG; Digital conversion; From camera to workstation; Computer software; Archive and management

Product Details

• Hardcover: 192 pages
• Publisher: Guild of Master Craftsman Publications (August 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1861083580
• ISBN-13: 978-1861083586
• Product Dimensions: 9.8 x 7.5 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,493,585 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Very practical advice for d-SLR photographers, December 28, 2004

By 

Gadgester "No Time, No Money" (Mother Earth) - See all my reviews
(HALL OF FAME REVIEWER)   

This review is from: Digital SLR Masterclass (Handbook Series) (Hardcover)

Apparently the guy from Norway is a world-renowned photographer who doesn't find this book "advanced" enough for his expertise, but I disagree with him and think this is a very good book for the d-SLR shooter who wants to be a *photographer,* not just a gadget freak.

The book covers topics that anyone with a d-SLR would like to master:

- should I shoot in RAW or JPEG? The author discusses both formats in detail and offers *real-world* advice (hint: he's a middle-of-the-roader)

- what should I do with the exposure histogram? Finally, this book offers the most detailed and helpful information I've seen regarding histograms. Lots of real-world examples are given to show you how to interpret the histogram depending on the shooting situation. If you thought you should always try to get "twin peaks" in the histogram for the "correct" exposure, you'd better pick up this book and I'm sure you'll benefit tremendously. Plus general exposure tips, too.

- with my expensive d-SLR, how should I conduct myself out in the field? The author covers what to bring and what not to bring, etc.

- plus other stuff which is more general but presented in an easy-to-understand format, e.g., digital photography basics, digital darkroom general guidelines, etc.

Of course, if you are already a master photographer like our world-famous guy from Norway, you really don't need this book. In fact you don't need any book since you are already a master. Rouse's book is really for those of us who are just amateurs but would like to either improve their photo skills or turn pro someday. This book is not about manipulating images in Photoshop or PhotoImpact; it's about getting the most out of your d-SLR. This is also not a book about photography (or even digital photography) in general, but about getting the most out of your d-SLR. (I know, I repeated myself, on purpose.)

BTW, this book is agnostic about the brand or model of d-SLR you may use. I have the D70, and I do wish the author had included some more model-specific information.

In summary, I find the great info on RAW vs. JPEG and on how to use the histogram properly very beneficial.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great guide to digital!, September 7, 2004

By 

B. Johnsen (Los Angeles, CA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Digital SLR Masterclass (Handbook Series) (Hardcover)

I have been shooting pictures for over 30 years and making my living at it for over 20. I switched to digital 3 years ago and was getting bogged down in the workflow, terminology and technology, could barely comprehend the manuals and didn't have time to take a class. This book was exactly what I was looking for, that is, someone to take me by the hand and guide me through the new digital tools I was working with. It is not aimed at beginning photographers, but rather the experienced shooter who is about to or has switched from film. I read most of the book on 3 hour plane ride and figure it to be the best 25 bucks I've spent in long time.
Thanks Andy Rouse!

8 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars Amateur class NOT master class, August 3, 2004

By 

K. E. Jakobsen (Røros, Norway) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Digital SLR Masterclass (Handbook Series) (Hardcover)

When you by a book with the word masterclass in the title you expect that the books aims at the semi pro/pro user/reader. that is not the case with Andy Rouses book it is aimed at the total beginner...with large typograhy, stupid looking info boxes and dull images it has more the look of a childrens book than a masterclass book for intermediate/experienced users. I really, really regret i spendt money on this useless product...my advice : stay far, far away from this book.