Book Review: AMC Guide to Outdoor Digital Photography

Guy Tal | December 7, 2011

Every so often I receive books from fellow photographers. It’s a thing we do to share our work and generate good word of mouth for each other. Don’t let anyone tell you that book publishing is a lucrative business; the risks are high and the returns will have any investment consultant scratching their heads.

That said, I decided to write a short review of Jerry Monkman‘s new book, AMC Guide to Outdoor Digital Photography, because there’s something about it I did not find in so many other digital photography introductory texts: passion for the subject. I’ll start by saying that I’ve never met Jerry; what I know of him I know from his images and writing. Jerry’s work, however, made me believe he’s someone I will very much like as a person.

The book seems aimed at beginner-to-intermediate photographers. At around 170 pages, the paperback is compact enough to slip into a pack for those who wish to read or practice in the field. The obligatory basics are covered in blissfully concise paragraphs but the bulk of it is dedicated to real-world practical advice on how to work effectively in the field. THAT is what so many other books miss. A couple of hours of practice is about all it takes to figure out how to set your aperture and shutter speed, but so few offer useful advice on how to carry yourself and your gear in wild places, how to commune and relate to the subjects you photograph and how to express this relationship in an image.

What I liked best, though, is that Jerry speaks of his own experience and his own relationships. So many other books contain dry techniques and advice and nothing about the person behind them. This text tells me not only about Jerry’s cameras, lenses and computer but also about Jerry the person, which, to me, makes it a much more interesting read.

Certainly no one book can cover it all or be perfect in every way. I did find a few pet peeves here and there (like using the term “previsualization” or referring to NANPA’s feeble attempt at acknowledging the existence of ethics without actually taking a stand) and, admittedly, much of the content may not be news to advanced or artistic photographers. Still, little things like coming across a paragraph titled “Participating in the Landscapes” put a big smile on my face. Here’s a photographer who gets it.

In a world where anyone with a web site and an SUV can declare themselves a professional photographer, where incessant plagiarism passes for “fine art,” and where too many shy away from embracing a struggling profession, I appreciated Jerry’s commitment and honesty; I appreciated not seeing any iconic done-to-death compositions; and I appreciated Jerry’s love for the work.

Buy the book if you are at a stage in your photography where you could use practical field advice, or, even if you don’t, buy it to get introduced to a true old-school conservation photographer who is passionate and who “walks the walk”.