Outdoor Photographer Magazine

PHOTO BOOKS

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Below you can read reviews and purchase your favorite photography,
imaging and computer related books. Just click on the book or link and you are on your way!







November 2006

Naturalist’s Guide to Observing Nature Naturalist’s Guide to Observing Nature by Kurt Rinehart (Stackpole Books, 2006; ISBN: 978-0-8117-3268-0). Outdoor enthusiasts will learn how to make the most of their time out in the wilderness in this guide book. Advice is given on where to look, what to notice and how to identify what you’re seeing and hearing.

How to Grow as a Photographer: Reinventing Your Career How to Grow as a Photographer: Reinventing Your Career by Tony Luna (Allworth Press, 2006; ISBN: 1-58115-446-1). Aimed at photographers who’ve hit a cross-roads in their craft, the book explores how to get through those challenges with interviews and anecdotes by well-known photographers and artists.

On Digital Photography On Digital Photography by Stephen Johnson (O’Reilly Media, 2006; ISBN: 0-596-52370-X). Landscape photographer Stephen Johnson covers a range of topics from learning basic camera techniques to exploring ethical issues in digital imaging. He shows readers how to understand and create great photography while also covering Photoshop techniques and tips.

Rainforest Rainforest by Thomas Marent (DK, 2006; ISBN: 0-7566-1940-8). Marent has devoted his photography to covering the world’s rainforests. This book gives readers an insider’s view of the forest’s diverse habitats and its inhabitants through a collection of more than 500 images showing leafcutter ants, poisonous frogs, multi-hued butterflies and more.

Brilliant Waters: Portraits of Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and the High Sierra Brilliant Waters: Portraits of Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and the High Sierra by Elizabeth Carmel (Hawks Peak Publishing, 2006; ISBN:0-9776877-0-8). Carmel’s beautiful landscape photographs are accompanied by poignant poetry selections in this collection of images showing both the intimate details and grand panoramas of these areas. The foreword is written by Robert Redford.

The Creative Nature Photography Workshop by Douglas Schwartz (Schwartz Nature Photography, 2006; www.schwartznaturephotography.com). This book features 26 lessons that explore the creative process behind nature photography. Each lesson concludes with an assignment for the reader to execute. The book is based on Schwartz’s more than 20 years as a nature photographer and field workshops he’s led.


   
October 2006  
   
Colorado Less Traveled: Journeys Off the Beaten PathColorado Less Traveled: Journeys Off the Beaten Path by Jim Steinberg and Susan J. Twelt (Portfolio Publications, 2005; ISBN: 188349883-X). Explore some of Colorado’s lesser known landscapes from fields of prairie grass and painted badlands to foothill canyons and snow-dusted peaks.

Wild Washington: Amazing Wildlife In And Around Our Nation's Capital Wild Washington: Amazing Wildlife In And Around Our Nation’s Capital by Don Chernoff (DC Wild, 2005; ISBN: 1-933570-14-8). Located across from the Atlantic flyaway bird migration route and next to the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay, Washington D.C. is rich with wildlife as shown in this book.

Looking East: PortraitsLooking East: Portraits by Steve McCurry (Phaidon Press, 2006; ISBN: 0714846376). This large format portfolio features McCurry’s beautiful and enduring images of Southeast Asian landscapes and culture. Portraits of children, monks, pilgrims and travelers come from his travels through the region.

Secret Lives of Common Birds: Enjoying Bird Behavior Through the SeasonsSecret Lives of Common Birds: Enjoying Bird Behavior Through the Seasons by Marie Read (Houghton Mifflin Company, 2005; ISBN: 0-618-55872-1). Find out the answers to all of your questions about birds through engaging, informative descriptions and photos of the creatures behavior.

Arctic Wings: Birds of the Arctic National Wildlife RefugeArctic Wings: Birds of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge edited by Stephen Brown, Ph.D. (The Mountaineers Books, 2006; ISBN: 0-89886-975-7). In 200 color images from award-winning nature photographers and essays by noted biologists and conservationists, discover the birds that converge on this endangered refuge every year to nest and rear their young.

One Planet: A Celebration of BiodiversityOne Planet: A Celebration of Biodiversity by Nicolas Hulot (Harry N. Abrams, Inc., 2006; ISBN: 0-8109-5534-2). In a volume containing 250 full-color images taken by more than 20 nature photographers, Hulot explores eight modern ecosystems including oceans, deserts, mountains and cities, and how humans affect those environments.

   
September 2006  
   
Dry: Life Without WaterDry: Life Without Water by Ehsan Masood and Daniel Schaffer (Harvard University Press, 2006; ISBN: 067402224-6). Illustrated with colorful and engaging photographs, this book tells stories about people living in hot, cold or high places who spend their lives collecting, chasing, piping and trapping water.

The Last SeasonThe Last Season by Eric Blehm (HarperCollins Publishers, 2006; ISBN: 0-06-058300-2). Blehm spent eight years researching the life and mysterious disappearance of legendary backcountry ranger Randy Morgenson. Morgenson spent much of his life protecting California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains before vanishing into them.

Teaching Photography: Tools for the Imaging EducatorTeaching Photography: Tools for the Imaging Educator by Glenn Rand and Richard Zakia (Focal Press, 2006; ISBN: 0-240-80767-7). Take a lesson on how to teach photography using a book that focuses more on how to become an effective teacher than on technique.

Insects: Their Natural History and Diversity: With a Photographic Guide to Insects of Eastern North AmericaInsects: Their Natural History and Diversity: With a Photographic Guide to Insects of Eastern North America by Stephen A. Marshall (Firefly Books, 2006; ISBN: 1-55297-900-8). More than 400 photographs illustrate this book, which covers all of the insect species in North America. Picture keys quickly describe insect orders and families.

Lasting Light - 125 Years of Grand Canyon PhotographyLasting Light – 125 Years of Grand Canyon Photography by Stephen Trimble (Northland Publishing, 2006; ISBN: 0-87358-894-0). One of the most photographed subjects on earth takes center stage in this book. Along with hundreds of photos, there are profiles of 23 photographers who share their stories of capturing the Grand Canyon.

Transboundary Conservation: A New Vision for Protected AreasTransboundary Conservation: A New Vision for Protected Areas by Russell A. Mittermeier, et al (Conservation International, 2005; ISBN: 9686397833). Through lush images of environmentally endangered regions, Conservation International examines 28 transboundary conservation areas, which are found across all continents.

   
July 2006  
   
Landscape and Nature Photography with Photoshop CS2Landscape and Nature Photography with Photoshop CS2 by Rob Sheppard (Wiley, 2006; ISBN: 0-471-78619-5). Outdoor Photographer Editor Rob Sheppard teaches you how to apply Photoshop techniques to landscape and nature photography by exploring topics like using layers to enhance images and manage color correction.

The Magic of Digital Close-Up PhotographyThe Magic of Digital Close-Up Photography by Joseph R. Meehan (Lark Books, 2006; ISBN: 1-57990-652-4). Learn some proven techniques for capturing close-up images in this all-inclusive guide. Topics range from tips on using a tripod and easel to working with macro and zoom lenses, extension tubes and ring lights.

Rick Sammons Travel and Nature PhotographyRick Sammon's Travel and Nature Photography by Rick Sammon (W.W. Norton & Company, 2006; ISBN: 0-393-32669-1). Vietnam, India and Alaska are just some of the places Outdoor Photographer contributor Rick Sammon takes you to in this how-to guide offering advice on shooting action shots to portraits, aerials to zoos, landscape to cityscape and more.

Wave-Swept Shore: The Rigors of Life on a Rocky CoastWave-Swept Shore: The Rigors of Life on a Rocky Coast by Mimi Koehl and Anne Rosenfield (University of California Press, 2006; ISBN: 0-520-23812-5). Find out how animals, plants and other living things survive the harsh coastal environment that includes coping with crashing waves, wind, sun, rain and rocks.

Window Seat: The Art of Digital Photography and Creative ThinkingWindow Seat: The Art of Digital Photography and Creative Thinking by Julieanne Kost (O?Reilly Media, 2006; ISBN: 0-596-10083-3). Based on photographs taken out of commercial airplane windows, Photoshop guru Julieanne Kost shares advice on staying creative and provides technical information on equipment and Photoshop techniques.

Wings of Spring: Courtship, Nesting, And FedgingWings of Spring: Courtship Nesting, and Fledging by Charles Hagner and Tom Vezo (Stackpole Books, 2006; ISBN: 978-0-8117-0141-9). More than 200 bird photographs are used to illustrate the rituals of spring breeding from Antarctica to Costa Rica, the Galapagos Islands and all over North America.

   
June 2006  
   
National Geographic Photography Field Guide: Action & AdventureNational Geographic Photography Field Guide: Action & Adventure by Bill Hatcher (National Geographic, 2006; ISBN: 0-7922-5315-9). From selecting equipment to shooting in bad conditions, Outdoor Photographer columnist Hatcher shares his secrets on getting the best action shots.

Utah's Wilderness AreasUtah's Wilderness Areas: The Complete Guide by Lynna Howard and Leland Howard (Westcliffe Publishers, 2005; ISBN: 1-56579-388-9). This guidebook profiles nearly 100 wilderness areas and features more than 60 day hikes, backpacking trips and four-wheeling routes in the Beehive State.

The AdirondacksThe Adirondacks by Carl Heilman II (Rizzoli, 2006; ISBN: 0-8478-2790-9). Crisscross the park's tree-covered mountains through 160 panoramic photographs by Heilman, who has been exploring the Adirondacks for more than 30 years.

The Traveler's Handbook: The Insider's Guide to World TravelThe Traveler's Handbook: The Insider's Guide to World Travel by Jonathan Lorie, Amy Sohanpaul and James Innes Williams (Globe Pequot Press, 2005; ISBN: 0-7627-4090-6). So you're going to Kiribati and you want a quick rundown of the island. This all-purpose travel guide gives overviews on hundreds of places around the world.

National Geographic Guide to Birding Hot Spots of the United StatesNational Geographic Guide to Birding Hot Spots of the United States by Mel White and Paul Lehman (National Geographic, 2006; ISBN: 0-7922-5483-X). Get the lowdown on more than 500 birding hot spots in 13 regions, with full-color maps, directions, best times to go and lists of special species.

The Only Kayak: A Journey into the Heart of Alaska The Only Kayak: A Journey into the Heart of Alaska by Kim Heacox (The Lyons Press, 2005; ISBN: 1-59228-715-8). This writer and photographer recounts the past 25 years he has spent living in Glacier Bay, Alaska. The title comes from the first kayaking trip he took there in 1979.

   
May 2006  
   
National Geographic Field Guide to the Trees of North AmericaNational Geographic Field Guide to the Trees of North America by Keith Rushforth and Charles Hollis (National Geographic, 2006; ISBN: 0-7922-5310-8). This is an in-depth guide, with hundreds of illustrations, covering more than 350 species of trees found between the Canadian Arctic and Mexico, and from the Atlantic to Pacific oceans.

Lonely Planet Landscape Photography: A Guide to Taking Better PicturesLonely Planet Landscape Photography: A Guide to Taking Better Pictures by Peter Eastway (Lonely Planet Publications, 2005; ISBN: 1-74059-669-2). The award-winning photographer gives his best tips and techniques for taking memorable landscape photos with digital and film cameras.

Profitable Photography in the Digital Age: Strategies for SuccessProfitable Photography in the Digital Age: Strategies for Success by Dan Heller (Allworth Press, 2005; ISBN: 1-58115-412-7). Learn what it takes to sell, deliver and compete in today's digital photography market while also getting a crash course in the basic fundamentals of starting your own business.

Attracting Birds, Butterflies & Other Winged Wonders to Your BackyardAttracting Birds, Butterflies & Other Winged Wonders to Your Backyard by Kris Wetherbee (Lark Books, 2005; ISBN 1-57990-810-1). Turn a corner of your backyard into a wildlife haven using this how-to guide, which offers advice on choosing shrubs, ground covers, perennials and annuals and more.

Traces of Eden: The Last of the American WildernessTraces of Eden: The Last of the American Wilderness by Nishantha Gunawardena (TOE Books, 2005; ISBN 0-9769972- 0-7). This book catalogs Gunawardena's three years of traveling through America capturing photos of stunning mountain ranges, river valleys, deserts, prairies and wildlife.

Seven Summits: The High Peaks of the Pacific NorthwestSeven Summits: The High Peaks of the Pacific Northwest by Art Wolfe, text by Michael Lanza (Sasquatch Books, 2005; ISBN 1-57061-476-8). Explore the Pacific Northwest's great mountains through Wolfe's photographs of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, Mount Rainier, Glacier Peak, Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan.

   
March 2006  
   
365 Ways to Save the Earth365 Ways to Save the Earth by Philippe Bourseiller (Harry N. Abrams Inc. Publishing, 2005; ISBN: 0-8109-5951-8). Maybe you can't change the world, but you can make a difference. Learn to preserve the world daily with the eco-friendly tips offered in this book. At the same time, enjoy the beauty the earth has to offer with these dramatic pictures from around the globe.

Land Navigation Handbook: The Sierra Club Guide to Map, Compass & GPSLand Navigation Handbook: The Sierra Club Guide to Map, Compass & GPS by W.S. Kals (Sierra Club Books, 2005; ISBN: 1-57805-122-3). Find your way in the outdoors by GPS, compass, map or the stars. This handheld guide will teach you what to look for in equipment, how to estimate travel time and distance, and even a few navigation tricks to help you plan your trip.

Natural Inspiration: Images and Insights by Ray Scott (Cloud.net Publishing, 2005; ISBN: 1-882906-54-3). After being exposed to loss of life, author and photographer Ray Scott set out to take advantage of his life. This collection of images, poetic quotes and narratives share the inspiration for life that Scott found in nature.

Wolf: Legend, Enemy, IconWolf: Legend, Enemy, Icon by Rebecca Grambo, photographs by Daniel J. Cox (Firefly Books, 2005; ISBN:1-55407-044-9). Award-winning author Rebecca Grambo and OP contributor Daniel J. Cox team up to create a captivating book about wolves. Text and magnificent pictures tell of their behavior, life cycle and history with man.

Mastering Black and White Digital PhotographyMastering Black and White Digital Photography by Michael Freeman (Lark Books, 2006; ISBN: 1-57990-707-5). Black-and-white images have withstood the test of time because of their artistic, dramatic nature. This book takes classic black-and-white photography and teaches digital black-and-white conversion, editing, gradient mapping, tonal adjustment and how to create mood and atmosphere.

Wild Minnesota: A Celebration of Our State's Natural BeautyWild Minnesota: A Celebration of Our State's Natural Beauty by Shawn Perich, photography by Gary Alan Nelson (Voyageur Press, 2005; ISBN: 0-89658-681-2); Wild New York: A Celebration of Our State's Natural Beauty by Charles Brumley, photography by Carl E. Heilman II (Voyageur Press, 2005; ISBN: 0-89658-663-4). These books showcase the different ecosystems of each state with images of the landscape and wildlife. The photography is accompanied by descriptions from longtime residents of the respective states.

   
January/February 2006  
   
Birds of the WorldBirds of the World World by Gilles Martin (Harry N. Abrams, 2005; ISBN: 0-8109-5889-9). This extensive bird guide covers five continents, with images and informative text that show and describe their behavior, senses and appearance. The book also documents birds interacting with one another.

Through the Eyes of the Gods: An Aerial Vision of AfricaThrough the Eyes of the Gods: An Aerial Vision of Africa by Robert B. Haas (National Geographic Society, 2005; ISBN: 0-7922-3882-6). From the sky, photographer Robert B. Haas is able to capture the African wildlife, people and commerce without causing disruption. The book is filled with miraculous images of elephant herds wading up rivers, crocodiles tearing apart their prey, and camels journeying across the desert.

Adobe Camera Raw for Digital Photographers OnlyAdobe Camera Raw for Digital Photographers Only by Rob Sheppard (Wiley Publishing, 2005; ISBN: 0-7645-9683-7). Learn to produce the best photographs possible in the right format. Photographer and editor Rob Sheppard explains the capabilities of the RAW format, with techniques to enhance RAW images. The book is photographer-friendly, with pro tips and cross-references throughout the text to help you better grasp the content and principles.

North Shore VisionNorth Shore Vision by Paul Sundberg (Stone Ridge Press, 2005; ISBN: 0-9760313-1-0). A bound photographic tour of Minnesota's Lake Superior coast acquaints the reader with the area. Detailed image captions identify wildlife and their habitats and characteristics.

Aurora: A Celebration of the Northern LightsAurora: A Celebration of the Northern Lights by Cary Anderson and David Parkhurst (Greatland Graphics, 2005; ISBN: 0-936425-962). Discover all there is to know about the northern lights?heir history, legends and place in culture and science. Photographers Anderson and Parkhurst are very familiar with the lights, as their images were captured over a two-decade span.

Grand Landscapes of CanadaGrand Landscapes of Canada by J.A. Kraulis (Firefly Books, 2005; ISBN: 1-55407-036-8). Explore the beauty of the Canadian landscape from the earth and the sky'ts geological formations, bodies of water, farmland and autumn-leafed trees. The book features captions in English and French.

   
December 2005  
   
The Last Place On EarthThe Last Place On Earth (National Geographic Society, 2005) is a two-volume, boxed collector's set, the larger book being made up of grand plates that present Nichols' photography as the center of attention. The smaller book, illustrated with Nichols' evocative black-and-white photos, replicates the journal of Fay, the expedition's leader and force for conservation in the region.

   
November 2005  
   
Gathering Moss: A Natural History of MossesGathering Moss: A Natural History of Mosses by Robin Wall Kimmerer (Oregon State University Press, 2004; ISBN: 0-87071-499-6). Kimmerer merges science, history, human nature and Native American culture into personal essays. Her writing reflects her background as a mother and teacher and emits a feeling of respect and awe for the life of moss and how it’s inextricably connected to other creatures.

Magic Lantern Guides: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTMagic Lantern Guides: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT by Michael Guncheon (Lark Books, 2005; ISBN: 1-57990-761-X). Eons ahead of the manual that accompanied your camera, this book teaches you how to harness your Rebel's potential. It concisely tells you about each operation of the camera, how to set your camera and when each function is useful.

Photoshop CS2: Essential SkillsPhotoshop CS2: Essential Skills by Mark Galer and Philip Andrews (Focal Press, 2005; ISBN: 0-240-52000-9). An excellent resource for any user of Photoshop CS2, this text provides a basic foundation covering topics like image compression, file formats, resolution and bit depth, then moves on to advanced functions like layers, channels and filters.

Color Country: Touring the Colorado PlateauColor Country: Touring the Colorado Plateau (Falcon, 2005; ISBN: 0-7627-3646-1); High Country: Touring the Colorado Rockies (Falcon, 2005; ISBN: 0-7627-3647-X) by Susan M. Neider. These complete traveler's guides provide extensive information about visiting the Colorado outdoors. The author identifies the exact location of where her photographs were taken and gives tips on how to capture your own.

Mammals of the National Parks: Conserving America's Wildlife and ParklandsMammals of the National Parks: Conserving America's Wildlife and Parklands by John H. Burde and George A. Feldhamer (The John Hopkins University Press, 2005; ISBN: 0-8018-8097-1). This book, written by a forester and a zoologist, provides an in-depth look at mammals, their traits and environmental issues affecting them.

Oregon: Wild and Beautiful IIOregon: Wild and Beautiful II by Dennis Frates (Farcountry Press, 2004; ISBN: 1-56037-261-3). This is a photo collection of Oregon landscape, vegetation and creatures. The images capture Oregon in every season: luscious green mountains, the snow-covered tulips, golden maples and sunlit tide pools.

   
October 2005  
   
Adobe Photoshop 3.0 Elements: A-ZAdobe Photoshop 3.0 Elements: A-Z by Phillip Andrews (Focal Press, 2005; ISBN: 0-240-51989-2). A quick, clear alternative to the built-in Photoshop Elements Help index, this book explains each function in the program, what versions it's available in and the shortcuts to access each function. Easy to read, it's intended to function like a dictionary.

National Geographic Photography Field Guide: TravelNational Geographic Photography Field Guide: Travel by Robert Caputo (National Geographic Society, 2005; ISBN: 0-7922-9505-6). Shoot like the pros of National Geographic with this field guide detailing the essentials of exquisite travel photography. The book covers topics such as capturing moods, getting the most photos out of your trip, equipment and giving snapshots a professional look.

Life Is Huge! Laughing, Loving and Learning From it AllLife Is Huge! Laughing, Loving and Learning From it All by Susan Jeffers (Jeffers Press, 2004; ISBN: 0-9745776-7-7). Live life to the fullest with the simple lessons you've learned. Through everyday life experiences, Jeffers draws profound conclusions that restore sight on the pure emotions of love and gratitude that are life.

Fine Art Flower Photography: Creative Techniques and the Art of ObservationFine Art Flower Photography: Creative Techniques and the Art of Observation by Tony Sweet (Stackpole Book, 2005; ISBN: 0-8117-3181-2). Experiment with floral photography using instructions and demonstrations from Sweet. The book helps the reader see a familiar subject and shoot it in a new way.

Legends of Light: A Michigan Lighthouse PortfolioLegends of Light: A Michigan Lighthouse Portfolio by Ed Wargin (Ed Wargin, 2005; ISBN: 1-58726-251-7). Acquaint yourself with the romantic landmarks of the Michigan coastline. The circular staircases, white sands, ship remains and pillars of light resting on the sea invite you to explore the antique shore.

Rick Sammon's Digital Imaging Workshops: Step-by-Step Lessons on Editing with Adobe Photoshop ElementsRick Sammon's Digital Imaging Workshops: Step-by-Step Lessons on Editing with Adobe Photoshop Elements by Rick Sammon (W.W. Norton & Company Ltd., 2005; ISBN: 0-393-32668-3). Offering lessons for varying levels of users on the enhancement of images, this book has immediate applications for your photo collection. It covers various subjects, such as diagnosing, adding motion, plug-ins and the final step, printing.

   
September 2005  
   
Day Hike! The Best Trails You Can Hike in a Day: Columbia GorgeDay Hike! The Best Trails You Can Hike in a Day: Columbia Gorge by Seabury Blair, Jr. (Sasquatch Books, 2005; ISBN: 1-57061-416-4) and Day Hike! The Best Trails You Can Hike in a Day: Central Cascades by Mike McQuaide (Sasquatch Books, 2005; ISBN: 1-57061-412-1). These two trail guides provide rated suggestions for day trips, including information on permits, level of difficulty, the best seasons to hike each trail and much more helpful information.

Butterflies of the East Coast: An Observer's GuideButterflies of the East Coast: An Observer's Guide by Rick Cech and Guy Tudor (Princeton University Press, 2005; ISBN: 0-691-09055-6). With this compendium of butterflies as a companion to your camera, you'll learn to locate and identify these beautiful insects as well as learn how to attract them.

Pro Digital Photographer's HandbookPro Digital Photographer's Handbook by Michael Freeman (Lark Books, 2005; ISBN: 1-57990-632-X). Maximize your digital camera's abilities with this book. Learn about accessories that complement your camera in addition to key techniques like noise reduction and color correction.

Digital Quick Guide: Step-by-Step Composition Techniques for Digital PhotographersDigital Quick Guide: Step-by-Step Composition Techniques for Digital Photographers by Ernst Wildi (Amherst Media, 2005; ISBN: 1-58428-158-8). Guiding the photographer to explore more intriguing shots, this book covers elements such as balance, color, arrangement of subjects and eliminating distractions.

WanderlustWanderlust by Mark Edward Harris (Shashin Press, 2004; ISBN: 0-9727841-2-8). Explore the captivating scenery and cultures of the world in duotone with photographs documenting the photographer's journeys.

Awaken the Artist Within: 21 3-Minute QuickTime Movie Lessons For Adobe Photoshop CS and CS2 by Rick Sammon (Rick's Pixel Magic, 2005; www.rickspixelmagic.com). Verse yourself in the dynamics of Photoshop with tutorials on filters, saturation and adding light. The lessons on this DVD will acquaint you with the numerous possibilities to repair and enhance your pictures.

Iceland/Island: A Visual Symphony eBook by Wolfgang Cohnen (www.cohnen.com). Experience the European Western frontier in multimedia form with a look at the seductive landscape of Iceland. Additionally, Iceland is an audio CD with a musical composition that's equally enticing.

   
August 2005  
   
Walking Softly in the Wilderness: The Sierra Club Guide to Backpacking, Fourth EditionWalking Softly in the Wilderness: The Sierra Club Guide to Backpacking, Fourth Edition by John Hart (Sierra Club Books, 2005; ISBN: 1-57805-123-1). Whether it's an ambitious mountain hike or a leisurely family camping trip, this book contains everything you need to know about planning an outdoor trip, such as what gear to bring or what to do in case of emergencies.

The Dawn Collector: On My Way to the Natural WorldThe Dawn Collector: On My Way to the Natural World by Reg Saner (Center for American Places, 2005; ISBN: 1-930066-31-7). Journey with the author on foot through the wild country of the American West, discovering its beauty, diversity and changing landscape.

Digital Imaging for the Underwater Photographer, 2nd EditionDigital Imaging for the Underwater Photographer, 2nd Edition by Jack and Sue Drafahl (Amherst Media, 2005; ISBN: 1-58428-167-7). This guide is packed full of information relevant to photographers who shoot underwater with a digital camera—how to adjust exposure, contrast and saturation, how to print your photos or create slideshows, and much more.

Digital Photo Art: Transform Your Images with Traditional & Contemporary Art TechniquesDigital Photo Art: Transform Your Images with Traditional & Contemporary Art Techniques by Theresa Airey (Lark Books, 2005; ISBN: 1-57990-580-3). Do more with your digital photos than just print them; turn them into works of art with the help of this guide, which combines techniques from painting, printmaking, drawing, photography and digital manipulation.

The Photographer's Guide to CompositionThe Photographer's Guide to Composition by John Freeman (Collins & Brown, 2004; ISBN: 1-84340-170-3). Beautifully illustrated, the guide covers all aspects of composition, such as symmetry, lenses, framing, viewpoint and perspective.

Viewfinder: 100 Top Locations for Great Travel PhotographyViewfinder: 100 Top Locations for Great Travel Photography by Keith Wilson (RotoVision, 2005; ISBN: 2-88046-793-4). This definitive travel manual lists the greatest cities, most picturesque natural wonders, and the most prominent historical sites, landmarks and religious centers around the world, along with stunning photographs, advice and practical information to get you there.

Big Sur to Big Basin: California's Dramatic Central Coast, photographsBig Sur to Big Basin: California's Dramatic Central Coast, photographs by Larry Ulrich, text by Pamela Verduin Cain (Chronicle Books, 1998; ISBN: 0-8118-4706-3). From the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the quaint village shops of Carmel, this book explores the charm and beauty of the California coastline.

Landscape Within: Insights and Inspiration for PhotographersLandscape Within: Insights and Inspiration for Photographers by David Ward (Argentum, 2005; ISBN: 1-902538-34-X). If you're interested in the deeper aspects of photography, such as the thought that goes into producing an image, why we photograph at all or what makes an image unique and appealing, this is a book you'll enjoy and benefit from reading.

Epson Complete Guide to Digital PrintingEpson Complete Guide to Digital Printing by Rob Sheppard (Lark Books, 2005; ISBN: 1-57990-705-9). Learn all the tips and tricks you need to create professional-quality prints of your favorite photographs.

White Mountain Wilderness: A Photographic Journey to New Hampshire's Most Rugged Places, imagesWhite Mountain Wilderness: A Photographic Journey to New Hampshire's Most Rugged Places, images by Jerry and Marcy Monkman, text by Jerry Monkman (University Press of New England, 2005; ISBN: 1-58465-404-X