Light: Science and Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting

I love the approach in this easy to read book. The authors' philosophy is to be as creative in as many ways as possible, even down to improvising equipment and overcoming lack thereof. If, say, candles will suffice, then why use strobes? I feared a huge shopping list for my foray into the world of studio lighting. This very helpful alternative to months of expensive experimentation has shown me a more structured approach, the focus being on Return on Investment while maximising results.

This book goes back to first principals and clarifies things that many of us have picked up by experience without really thinking about them. It starts by talking about the difference between diffuse and direct reflection which makes books like "Lighting for Digital Video & Television, Second Edition" and "Matters of Light and Depth" more valuable for the beginner. It also talks about subjects like lighting extreme contrast, glass and specular metal objects which will benefit anyone doing table top shooting as well as outdoors. The section on portraits shows what works and why in a really useful way. They don't promulgate rules but give you the tools to think through what you want yourself. This book is like the sound books by Jay Rose an essential for every level.

Very thorough coverage of lighting everything but people. Presents concepts for a different point of view than most lighting books.

The authors clearly know lighting, and they know how to present what they know. This book is packed with information from cover to cover. As clearly written as it is, I shall have to read it several times more to retain it all.

thumbs up

Everything you need to know about how light will act or react. Bedrock knowledge for photography, video, film, or production.

excellent !! i recommend this book to everyone who's interesting in learning the science of light in photography. Easy to read and very helpfull.

The third edition is out and costs LESS than the second edition.

A fascinating insight for a serious amateur photographer. All aspects are covered and from minimum to maximum options. Puts the mind in a different place for looking at a subject through newly-opened eyes. You can only gain from this book.

Easy to read, and really helpful

Standard reference with practical examples. Great Book!

This is by far the best book on photographic lighting that I'veever read! It especially explains all the why's that you needto deal with all the different situations that you may comeacross. This book has been written for the people who want tounderstand what they are doing, rather than just followcookbook-like recipies without a deeper understanding.It is amazing, how well the book is written! Very interestingto read and even for beginners for sure very easy to understand.Even people with experience in photographic lighting will forsure find several things in it that are very helpful.