National Audubon Society Guide to Nature Photography: Digital Edition
Nature photography, as well-known nature photographer Fitzharris states, is part of the instinct to hunt and gather, but instead of wild game and tubers, the photographer bags images of the natural world. In this revised edition of his 1990 work, Fitzharris moves the medium from film to the computer file. Nature photography basically falls into two components: the recording of wildlife in their natural behaviors and habitat, wherein the subjects often dictate the approach, and the inanimate elements of the natural world (trees, waves, landscapes), where the photographer’s self-expression can be given a freer rein. The author provides practical advice for both the craft and art of nature photography, beginning with choosing the right equipment and learning essential skills before moving on to the specifics of photographing wildlife, landscapes, and close-up subjects. The final section deals with digital processing and adjustment of images via such programs as Photoshop. Although the text assumes that the user has basic knowledge of photographic principles, it will be useful for just about anyone who wants to move beyond a simple point-and-shoot camera. --Nancy Bent