This book explores both digital and film photography, providing the enthusiast with information on everything from understanding aperture and focus to manipulating images for maximum effect using computer software. All the basics are covered, from holding a camera to using a tripod and knowing which films and lenses to buy. Creative advice on framing and setting up shots, choosing the most effective point of view and looking for texture, shape and composition opportunities will help amateurs to advance their photography to a new level. With over 1700 photographs and diagrams, this manual is essential for anyone with an interest in photography.

This comprehensive guide helps the digital photographer transform their photographs from snapshots to works of art. It explains technical specifications, and advises on what is needed to get started. Following this, the book reveals techniques of composition, balance, lighting and exposure and suggests assignments to practice these techniques. As well as showing how to make the most of a digital camera, this book also explains how to use editing software, with sections on techniques such as creating a panorama or retouching an old photograph. The final section explains storing and sharing photos, from how to make the best prints to methods of online storage.