Perfect Digital Photography
by Jay Kinghorn and Jay Dickman
ISBN 0-07-225921-3, 466 pages
$39.95 US, $52.95 CN, £21.99 UK
While immersed in our interview with Dr. Martin Abelson on color management, this title arrived from McGraw-Hill. The first 275 pages deliver a solid introduction to digital camera hardware and techniques, but the final 170 pages of text, covering software and color issues, are worth the entire price of this book.
Color management is tricky, and needs to be taken seriously. Readers who want their photos to print with the colors seen on their displays must be thorough, or they will be disappointed.
Beginning with Chapter 14, Correcting Tone and Color, through Chapter 18, “Automation and Workflow,†these final five units will help you decide if color management is worth the effort, and how to begin the journey. Raw files, retouching, Layer Masks, and more from the land of Photoshop are covered patiently, with detailed steps for implementation.
Printer profiles and resolutions are explained in a calm way, to keep your blood pressure and frustration levels low. Screen shots are plentiful, and page design is conducive to learning the material under discussion. Fine art printing in color, black and white, and using hand coloring are welcome additions.
Perfect Digital Photography will not turn you into the perfect digital photographer or printer, but it will give you confidence, and help you decide how deeply to pursue this more art than science technology. Take a look at the dedicated web site for additional info and links.
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