Overview
“Understanding Exposure” focuses on the three pillars of exposure: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Bryan Peterson, an accomplished photographer and instructor, articulates these concepts in a manner that is accessible to beginners, yet rich enough to remain a valuable resource for experienced photographers seeking a refresher. The book is well-organized, with chapters dedicated to each component of exposure, as well as various situations and how to handle them.
Strengths
- Clarity and Simplicity: Peterson excels at simplifying complex concepts. His explanations are clear and direct, often accompanied by visual examples that illustrate the points being made. This clarity helps demystify the often intimidating aspects of camera settings and their effects on images.
- Practical Examples: The book is filled with high-quality photographs that serve not only as inspiration but also as practical examples of the principles discussed. Peterson includes details of how each photo was captured, including the specific settings used. This practical insight allows readers to see the real-world application of the concepts.
- Hands-On Approach: Peterson encourages readers to experiment with their cameras, turning the theoretical knowledge from the book into practical skills. This hands-on approach is reinforced by various exercises that are designed to get the reader comfortable with manipulating exposure settings in different shooting conditions.
Weaknesses
- Digital vs. Film Photography: While the latest editions of the book have been updated to include digital photography specifics, some critiques note that certain parts may still feel slightly geared towards film photography. However, the fundamental concepts of exposure remain relevant across digital and film formats.
- Technological Advances: As with any book dealing with technology, the rapid advancement in photography equipment can outpace the examples and recommendations in the book. Users of very modern cameras might find some of the technical advice less applicable, although the foundational teachings remain solid.
“Understanding Exposure” by Bryan Peterson is celebrated for good reason. It provides a comprehensive foundation in the technical aspects of photography, presented in a manner that is easy to understand and apply. Whether you are just starting out and feeling overwhelmed by your camera’s manual, or you’re an experienced photographer looking to revisit the basics, this book can provide valuable insights to help you improve your photographic skills. It teaches not just how to take technically sound photographs, but also how to think about exposure creatively, which is essential for taking great pictures.
