The Ansel Adams Guide

Basic Techniques of Photography, Vol. 2

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by John Paul Schaefer and Ansel Adams

Bulfinch Press

Due/Published May 1998, 400 pages, paper

ISBN 0821219561

Ansel Adams' unique systematic approach to the art of photography is presented in this essential guide. The book is organized to provide a broad range of photographers - from the serious beginner to the advanced amateur - with an understanding of the basic principles of both black-and-white and color photography. It draws extensively on the writings of Ansel Adams, sharing his insights into the artistic, practical, and technical aspects of photography.

After giving a brief overview of the history of photography, author John Schaefer presents detailed explanations of camera systems and film. Next comes a clear, easy-to-understand explication Ansel Adams' theories of visualization and the use of his Zone system as an aid in determining film exposure. A practical and detailed chapter on light and light meters follows. Chapters on developing the negative, basic printing, and making a fine print feature step-by-step procedures. The book concludes with two inclusive chapters on color photography and printing, and a section on field trips. Profusely illustrated with examples of Adams' own work and that of other photographers, the text covers every aspect of beginning photography; numerous demonstration photographs and technical illustrations clarify the terms, concepts, and techniques that can seem so bewildering to the novice photographer.