Customer Reviews

Sam Abell: The Photographic Life

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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Despite the high price, this is one of the best photography books I have ever purchased.

As a photographer myself, I can say that it is refreshing to see a book that delves into the stories behind the pictures (many which have been featured in National Geographic magazine) with both meaningful text as well as the display of surrounding photographs which led up to the final published one-the outtakes so to speak. Seeing these outtakes is enlightening. It provides a glimpse via examples, into Sam Abells working style and methods of seeing.

Abell proves himself a very generous and inspiring person. He shows an uncanny ability to not only make amazing photographs, but to also talk saliently and make clear statements about the process of making them too. Abell shares with us his thoughts, and stories for his photography. I'm not sure many other other photographers would be so willing to do so.

I found it interesting to learn and understand what went through Sam Abells mind while making photographs. Oftentimes one sees a photographer's results (the final images) yet knows nothing about the journey of work it took to actually achieve the results. This book fills that gap beautifully.

One can tell that this is a very personal book for Sam Abell. He does indeed live the photographic life, not only documenting important public places and events, but those of his own inner life as well.

The size of this book is quite hefty, perfect for a coffee table-it's that type of book. The production quality is top notch-the book text is easy to read and the images are presented beautifully.

My only complaint (and it's a small one), is that the ink on the front cover (the book is cloth bound) is not even and is faded and light in places. Again, this is minor and all the text throughout the inside of the book is perfect. Also, the book is a bit expensive.

Seeing the word in a new way....learning the patience to wait for the picture to happen...life to happen. An incredible journey that invites you to linger and ponder.

Being a photographer myself and predominately photographing in black and white it takes a lot to get me to buy colour photographic books. Sam Abell's unique eye and great use of subdued colour is a winner for me. In fact I find his compositions are the main strength and the colour just compliments the images. This book is also a wonderful journey in ones life as a photographer. I found that it revealed so much about Abell's inner self.