It’s become an annual tradition to list my favorite photography books during the holiday season. This year is no different, so let’s get to it.
The list always varies, but creativity has no limits… so some books are new, others are old, but all have a unique and special element. There’s even a recommendation for those who want to improve their writing skills.
In no particular order, here are my Top 10 for 2019. All would be a welcomed addition to your personal collection or make for a great gift for that special person in your life.
If I had to choose one book that truly captured my sole this year, “Grassroots Baseball - Where Legends Begin” by Jean Fruth would be the winner. Baseball is America’s sport for good reason and this book captures the essence of the sport from an amateur perspective. The pictures are spectacular and the breath of coverage is extraordinary… America, South America, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republican, Japan, etc. The pure genius of the book though is found in the introduction of each chapter by Hall of Fame player(s) reflecting on their early memories of baseball. Everyone from Whitey Ford to Johnny Bench to Ichiro Suzuki share their story. Lastly, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the wonderful image of Paul Simon playing stick ball in NYC.
If adventure is your game, “Stories Behind the Images - Lessons from A Life In Action Photography” by Corey Rich is your book. It’s full of world class images and remarkable stories. Pulling back the curtain to acknowledge mistakes made on certain assignments is commendable… and funny at times… and makes for fascinating reading. Being a world class climber and photographer is no easy feat. Doing both and staying in the moment takes a level of mastery beyond my pay grade.
There’s not that hasn’t been said about the perennial favorite “Who Moved My Cheese” by Dr. Spencer Johnson. It’s a timeless classic with over 3,600+ reviews on Amazon (4.5 Stars). In a world of perpetual change, this is a universal read for everyone. A simple analogy of four mice working their way through a maze to get to the cheese depicts the story of life. When the cheese inevitably moves, 2 of the 4 mice are paralyzed while the other two accept the change and adapt to the situation.
Author & Photographer Chase Jarvis reminds his audience in “Creative Calling” that daily habits can lead to vitality in everything we do. Creativity isn’t a skill but a habit available to everyone and thus your level of experience or background doesn’t matter. His IDEA system… Imagine, Design, Execute and Amplify will get you on the right path to creativity.
If you’re looking for a coffee table book this year, look no further than “Earth is My Witness” by Art Wolfe. It’s simply an inspiring book covering everything from landscapes, wildlife and cultures on the verge of extinction around the world. It would be easy to category Art Wolfe as a photographer, but anyone who knows him and his work would argue he’s a true artist with a distinct vision.
When it comes to writing, Stephen King has to come to mind as his plethora of books is unrivaled. Ironically, my favorites is “On Writing: 10th Anniversary Edition: A Memoir of the Craft.” It’a not a novel, but memoir and craft. This epitome is for fans, writers and anyone looking to improve their communication skills through the written word.
The Godfather of Photography is back with his 40th book… “Photo Therapy - Motivation and Wisdom.” It’s fair to say, there aren’t many people who could pull off writing a 140 page photo book with no pictures! Rick Sammon morphs his decades of experience into a well organized, thought provoking book that challenges you to become a better photographer… and person.
As a former Professor at the Brooks Institute, Chris Orwig does a great job in “The Creative Fight: Create Your Best Work and Live the Life You Imagine.” Through his friendly and approachable style, the author guides you to find meaning in your work. He feels creativity isn’t a gift, but an on-going process nourished over time. Each chapter has exercises to put new concepts into practice.
Veteran Photographer & instructor Bryan Peterson hits it out of the park with “Understanding Color In Photography: Using Color, Composition, and Exposure to Create Vivid Photos.” He’s had numerous best selling books over the years, but this one is long overdue. Bold & vibrant images are his personal brand of photography and his colorful personality shines through in every chapter making for a delightful read.
Humanitarian Photographer, David DuChemin, strikes a chord with readers in “Within The Frame - The Journey of Photographic Vision.” His distinctive writing style encourages photographers to cultivate and find their creative voice and tell stories so passionate and compelling, it can only be their own. This updated book (second addition) also includes new photos, creative exercises and a companion streaming video as well.
All of the above publications have a permanent spot on my book shelf and have been read/viewed on several occasions. You can’t go wrong with any of them.
For the record, the books are hot linked to Amazon to allow you to do additional research, but I do not have any affiliations with the authors and/or website and thus do not receive any compensation.