The Digital Photography Book

Kelby’s book is a great start if you are new to the world of digital photography. The book is divided into topical sections which covers each of the major issues surrounding photography in general and digital photography in specific. This book is not a lengthy technical exposition of optics and camera hardware; rather, it is a hands-on guide that helps us both compose and capture the best photographs we can from even our sometimes diminutive and inexpensive cameras.

Although the book is aimed at novices, there are some nice tricks and tips that even seasoned photographers may not have considered. But its main audience is the novice or mid-range user who simply wants to make sense out of the process photographers use to take great photographs. For example, we learn about aperture, shutter speed, and exposure, and how these three are related on to another. But more importantly, we learn what effect Read more…

Weber’s Way to Grill: The Step-by-Step Guide to Expert Grilling (Sunset Books)

With all the BBQ and grilling books that are published, it’s easy to formulate the attitude “Oh yeah, just what I need — one more grilling book.” However, if you’re a grilling aficionado, to bypass this one would be a mistake.

From the start, it has a couple of things going for it. First, it’s from Sunset books, probably the finest publisher of ‘how to’ style books in the country. Second, it’s written by Jamie Purviance, an excellent author who not only has the expertise, but also the right attitude towards grilling (very down-to-earth; not snotty in the least). As someone who has grilled for many Read more…

The Principles of Beautiful Web Design

The Principles of Beautiful Web Design is an extremely useful book about basic design principles. To some, design is something that is tough to grasp and is a mystery to understand. To others it simply comes naturally. If you find yourself struggling with design and need some direction, then this book is for you. Throughout each of the chapters Jason breaks down the specifics of layout and composition, color, texture, typography, and imagery. Are you struggling with your web design for the moment? Get back Read more…