John Shaw provides specific advice and detailed guidelines for photographing nature subjects. Where most books are vague, the author recommends specific equipment to purchase, when to use it and when to avoid it.

Be advised, however, that though this book has excellent information for any level of photographer, it is most useful for the advanced amateur or professional. Some of his recommendations are beyond the capabilities of a beginner -- technically and financially. For example, his recommendations of the type of equipment to buy for high quality images would probably bankrupt a hobbyist.

Again, the information is priceless and the images without equal.


Excellent book for the intermediate to advanced photographer   December 6, 2001
 42 out of 45 found this review helpful

This book is an excellent resources on equipment and techniques for nature photography. The book is detailed, in-depth, and thorough in covering the major aspects of importance to a nature photographer. Unlike most authors, John Shaw provides specific information rather than vague suggestions. For example, when discussing equipment, he advises the reader on which specific tripod to purchase and what lenses to avoid.

It should be noted, however, the books seems to be geared more toward professional photoghraphers rather than amateurs. This is probably most noticeable when he discusses equipment because he gives the impression than anything less than top-of-the-line is a waste of money and will not result in good photographers. His equipment recommendations are sometimes out of the price range of most amateur photographers. In addition, he does not waste too much time on the basics of photography and presumes that the reader has at least some grasp of concepts and techniques.

I would recommend this book for the intermediate to advanced photographer. Beginners would be better served focusing on more basic texts rather than delving into this specialist book.


Top Notch Shooter   December 2, 2001
 1 out of 6 found this review helpful

John Shaw is a Top Notch Shooter, straight forward, common sense, knowledgeable, great results. He is a master of the K.I.S.S. formula; Keep It Straight & Simple.


Great book for aspiring nature photographers   November 5, 2001
 2 out of 3 found this review helpful

I am a novice photographer and I have bought a number of books on photography. This book was by far the best I have read so far. John gives clear and practical advice on all aspects of nature photography in easy to understand terms. I also appreciated that all the pictures in the book gave the details of how he took the shot, camera, lens, film etc.

The book also very clearly explained all about the uses and practicality of a wide range of lenses and accesories. This will prevent you from buying equipment that will not satisfy your needs or buying more than you actually need.

All around a great book!