Peachpit Press Press: "Photographically Speaking: A Deeper Look at Creating Stronger Images", 272 Page Paperback Book by David duChemin

"Photographically Speaking" is a practical primer on visual language. The overarching question at the heart of this book is, "What makes a good photograph?" Why is this important? Because once a photographer understands what makes a good photograph--once he or she learns the visual language--then that photographer is well on their way to being able to "speak" that language, creating stronger images that communicate and connect their intention with the viewer.

The discussion about visual language is profoundly pragmatic and useful, but for too long, the books that discuss it have been considered "academic," esoteric and difficult. Here, duChemin writes in an approachable, comfortable and inspiring way, translating this seemingly difficult conversation into something that the bulk of photography students can understand and then actually put to use in order to make good photographs.

The first part of the book puts this entire conversation in context, then the second part digs in to discuss the elements of visual language--from lines and shapes to color, depth of field, composition and exposure--and its devices. The third part brings it all together in a discussion of 20 images and the elements and decisions that went into their creation, all written with the understanding that if photography students begin to understand photographs more consciously, they will be better equipped to use their gear and techniques in the intentional creation of more compelling photographs.