My Photo Book Wish List

Each Christmas I gather a list of photography books that I "might" like to receive as Christmas gifts from my wife.   Just merely suggestions, of course :).  This year I thought I would share the list with you in case something looks of interest.

But before we get to the books. I think that studying the work of master photographers, especially in a large format book form, allows you to hone your own craft - to soak in the elements of each particular photograph.  Going out and creating your own photographs can't be replaced in the process of deepening your craft, of course, but this helps, and is certainly better than sitting in front of a computer screen :)

Here they are in no particular order...

Forms of Japan - Michael Kenna

I'm a big fan of Michael Kenna's work and I've been pining to visit the landscapes of rural Japan for several years now.  Seeing as I'm not going anytime soon, this 

Josef Heflehner Retrospective

To be honest, I had never heard of Mr. Hoflehner until a few weeks ago, but from the few works by him I have seen, I've been drawn in by his timeless aesthetic.  Can't wait to explore some new photographs in this book.

Saul Leiter

This book falls under the "study the masters" category more than any other book on this list.  Enough said...

Galen Rowell: A Retrospective

Last year I rented this book from the local library.  It's big and a great overview of Mr. Rowell's adventure filled career.  I have several other of his books that I look at regularly and thought it was about time to add this one to my permanent collection.  

High Tide - A Surf Odyssey

Big fan of Chris' work and can't wait to thumb through his latest installment.  

The Art of Adventure - Bruce Percy

Mr. Percy is currently one of my favorite photographers and I've been eyeing this book for some time now.  A student of Michael Kenna's work, Bruce's landscapes are infused with peace and calm in the midst of some very dynamic landscapes.  In this book Percy provides insight into the making of 40 of his images.

The Print & The Process - David duChemin

David has been a huge influence on me for about the last decade.  All his books are great and I can't wait to dig into this one.  Of all the books on my list, this is the most instructional, but will compliment them all quite nicely.  

Have any photography books on your wish list this Christmas?  Drop a line in the comments to share!