Learning by doing...

[Di&Z]

...is invaluable I know, but is there one (or two) books that have helped you in the very beginning.

One of the posters in one of my other threads mentioned a book that helped him, "Joy of Photography".

As a beginner, was there a book that helped you to better understand the whole process of taking a picture?

 

[davebmck]

You can't go wrong with Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. Also look here: http://www.thephotoforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123160

 

[chrisburke]

To the OP what camera are you using

 

[Kendo]

The first thing I did was to read and fully understand my cameras manual. Then I went to the book store and looked at every photo book available and chose the one that seemed the best for me. I also read/subscribe to a few different digital magazines. These work very well for me. I don't read one book and call it good. I read different photo books all the time to stay up on features and techniques. I always learn something new.

 

[Big Mike]

The basics of photography; light, aperture, shutter speed, composition etc....have not changed...so don't be afraid to pick up some old book from the 'film days'.

I'd suggest going to a library and having a look at what they have for photography books.

 

[Di&Z]

To the OP what camera are you using

Canon XSi.

I'm using the manual, trying to make sense of it, trying different things.

I'm new, it'll take time to learn everything, I know.

I was just wondering if there was one book that helped those to understand the basics.

 

[DRoberts]

As stated above there are tons of books and online resources for learning the basics of photography...But the one thing I always suggest is to keep a shooting log. Record the the subject, time of day, lighting conditions, camera settings, shooting distance, etc. This will allow you to keep track of what works and what doesn't.

 

[Chewbecca]

What helped me in the beginning was, my friend and I got into photography at the same time. She did some online beginner's courses and she would email me the lessons.
THAT'S what taught me all about shutter speed and aperture. I have those on my computer still.
I got Understanding Exposure but I didn't really read it. I have a couple of books that I use as reference material. But I haven't read any of them from front to back. I've also watched video clips on youtube because I'm a better visual learner than I am at reading instruction.

Plus, Nikon manuals suck. You'll find out what you need to know about your camera, but it doesn't tell you much about the basics of photography.

 

[bigtwinky]

I echo Understanding Exposure. I bought it, after people here recommended it, even though I was taking a class. Getting information in different formats is something I like and helps my learning.

The book was an easy read, great pictures and good detail as to how he takes his pictures. Wasn't too expensive either.