Strong images only come about through a combination of technical excellence and thorough composition. While there is plenty of technical advice, photographers often turn to fine-art sources for the so-called 'rules of composition'. This book, however, acknowledges photography's quite different dynamic and offers a contemporary approach to composition more suited to the medium. The second edition of Basics Photography 01: Composition offers a contemporary approach to composition. Its six core chapters cover historical background and personal motivation, formal elements, space and time within the photographic frame and composition in real-world situations. The Basics Photography series, originally published by AVA Publishing, comprises a collection of titles including: Lighting, Composition, Capturing Colour, Post-Production Black & White, Post-Production Colour, Working in Black & White and Exposure. Easily accessible and highly readable, the books clearly explain and explore fundamental photographic concepts; they are fully indexed and illustrated with clear diagrams and inspiring imagery, building to provide an essential introduction to the subject.
Biography
David Prakel
Superlative book on a subject often too lightly dismissed but of the utmost importance. Clearly written, cleverly illustrated, thorough but straight to the point. A must for... well, everyone! - Armando Vilas-Boas, IADE, Portugal
The book has valuable information for any beginner photographer. The images are very helpful and inspirational. The printing quality of the book is of a high standard making it much more useful as a visual aid. - Rusaila Bazlamit, German Jordanian University, Jordan
A little bit of luxury to have an entire book given over to composition... this text informs and inspires. - K. J. Shepherdson, Canterbury Christ Church University
What an amazing book. - Kevin Scully, Granite State College at Rochester & Portsmouth, USA
Composition is one of those topics that has surely been done to death. But in the hands of David Präkel, the subject expands its scope in new and fascinating directions. Präkel's engaging and knowledgeable text sits perfectly alongside the consistently beautiful imagery. The fairest comparison would be to place this book alongside any of Michael Freeman's equally vital publications, and that is high praise indeed. If you're looking for a jolt of inspiration, this is the perfect book for you. - Oliver Atwell, Amateur Photographer, December 2012, http://www.amateurphotographer.co.uk/round-ups/539315/christmas-gift-ideas-best-photo-books-of-2012
