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Marketing Yourself with Photo Books. Comprehensive Guide on Photo Editing Business. The Shy Photographer’s Guide to Confidence. What happens at a workshop stays at a workshop. Going Candid by Thomas Leuthard. Selling Stock Photography: A Guide to Licensing Images From Your Archive. The Textbook of Digital Photography – Second Edition. Hope this compilation will help you in your photography career or simply a knowledge builder for your hobby. Click on the ebook’s cover to read / download the free ebooks. This will bring you to an external site where you can proceed to download or read the free ebook. Length: 32 page PDF ebook What We Say: Easy to read, practical and inspirational tips from an experienced photographer. It’s not a technical e-book but if you’re starting out in photography or an intermediate photographer looking to take your images to the next level this is one to consider. Better equipment helps, but knowledge and experience help a lot more. That’s why we put together a list of the best free eBooks for photographers. These books will help you learn photography skills first hand from some of the best photographers in the world. Aug 20, 2015 Better equipment helps, but knowledge and experience help a lot more. That’s why we put together a list of the best free eBooks for photographers. These books will help you learn photography skills first hand from some of the best photographers in the world. Photography ebooks are great, and free ebooks are even better! Check out this list of the best free photography ebooks on the internet, and start learning!
Why You Should Be Reading These Photography Books
I started writing this blog because I found it difficult to learn a lot from the internet. It’s hard to find good, reliable content. In the end, you find yourself staring at a glaring screen covered in ads.
Photography books cost money but the content is excellent and you can take it anywhere.
Photography books cost money but the content is excellent and you can take it anywhere.
All the information and photos in the books below come from professionals. Here, they provide insight into their work – the internet can’t compete.
[ExpertPhotography is supported by readers. Product links on ExpertPhotography are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something we make a little bit of money. Need more info? See how it all works here.]
Basics
Let’s start at the beginning.
Excellent photography requires a strong foundation. These books will ensure that you know exactly how to use your camera gear. This includes how to use settings, and technical knowledge properly.
If you struggle with these areas, read books on the basics of photography. I assure you that the speed at which you learn will only increase.
Excellent photography requires a strong foundation. These books will ensure that you know exactly how to use your camera gear. This includes how to use settings, and technical knowledge properly.
If you struggle with these areas, read books on the basics of photography. I assure you that the speed at which you learn will only increase.
20. Complete Digital Photography – Ian Farrell
This book guides you through every aspect of digital photography. From shooting, through post-production and finally printing. This will help you master the theory and technical skills required of a photographer.
In an easy-to-understand format, it’s the complete package. There’s also a bonus chapter to help you choose the right digital camera. So it’s one of the best photography books to start with. Even before you’ve even bought one!
In an easy-to-understand format, it’s the complete package. There’s also a bonus chapter to help you choose the right digital camera. So it’s one of the best photography books to start with. Even before you’ve even bought one!
19. Langford’s Basic Photography: The guide for serious photographers – Michael Langford
In this photography book, you’ll learn everything. Not only how to form images, but also how to control what you capture. From the best camera and lens type for your work to the equipment needed for great lighting.
You’ll learn how to frame, measure exposure and how to edit, organize and store your digital images.
And finally, you’ll learn how to print, finish and present your photographs. On top of that, it helps you understand how to get your work noticed. This is an excellent, all-inclusive package.
You’ll learn how to frame, measure exposure and how to edit, organize and store your digital images.
And finally, you’ll learn how to print, finish and present your photographs. On top of that, it helps you understand how to get your work noticed. This is an excellent, all-inclusive package.
18. LIFE Guide to Digital Photography – Joe McNally
‘Everything You Need to Shoot Like the Pros’ is the subtitle of this book and pretty much sums it up.
Inside, Joe explains how best to take advantage of what your camera does best. He also helps you understand when it is wise to outthink your camera and push it to its limits.
What I found useful was the little caption under each photo. It shows you the settings it took to create each image. Knowing the f-stop, shutter speed and ISO used can be helpful. You will understand how to replicate the same images.
This explains how to take your photography to the next level. Find out from one of the best photo books on the market.
Inside, Joe explains how best to take advantage of what your camera does best. He also helps you understand when it is wise to outthink your camera and push it to its limits.
What I found useful was the little caption under each photo. It shows you the settings it took to create each image. Knowing the f-stop, shutter speed and ISO used can be helpful. You will understand how to replicate the same images.
This explains how to take your photography to the next level. Find out from one of the best photo books on the market.
17. Understanding Exposure (Fourth Edition) – Bryan Peterson
With more than 350,000 copies sold, this is one of the most popular photography books. It demystifies the complex concepts of exposure for countless photographers.
The book keeps his trademark easy-to-understand style. Author Bryan Peterson explains the relationship between aperture and shutter speed. This includes how to achieve successful exposures in difficult situations.
You’l find information on white balance, flash, HDR, and more. This updated classic will inspire you to stop guessing. It will allow you to take control of your settings.
Use this photography book for better photos anytime, anywhere, and with any camera.
The book keeps his trademark easy-to-understand style. Author Bryan Peterson explains the relationship between aperture and shutter speed. This includes how to achieve successful exposures in difficult situations.
You’l find information on white balance, flash, HDR, and more. This updated classic will inspire you to stop guessing. It will allow you to take control of your settings.
Use this photography book for better photos anytime, anywhere, and with any camera.
16. Camera: A History of Photography from Daguerreotype to Digital – Todd Gustavson
I found this photography book particularly fascinating. It’s a history not of iconic images but, rather, of the machines that made them possible.
Some of the biggest developments are thoroughly discussed. This goes from the earliest wet plate cameras to the cameras NASA used on the moon.
Detailed captions provide technical information. They also give glimpses into the personalities of those who created the cameras. You’ll find over 350 color illustrations in side, making it one of the best photo books.
Some of the biggest developments are thoroughly discussed. This goes from the earliest wet plate cameras to the cameras NASA used on the moon.
Detailed captions provide technical information. They also give glimpses into the personalities of those who created the cameras. You’ll find over 350 color illustrations in side, making it one of the best photo books.
Composition & Technique
Once you know what you’re doing, this is the next step towards taking amazing photos. Learn what makes photos great, then how to put in place that information into your own photos.
I’ve learned a lot from these books. It can be a lot of information to take in at once. But, when you’ve mastered it, your photos will improve dramatically.
I’ve learned a lot from these books. It can be a lot of information to take in at once. But, when you’ve mastered it, your photos will improve dramatically.
15. The Photographer’s Eye – Michael Freeman
Michael Freeman is on this list twice and with good reason: I love the way he writes.
Design is the single most important factor in creating a successful photograph. It helps you work on your ability to see the potential for a strong picture. Then organize the graphic elements into an effective, compelling composition.
This has always been one of the key skills in making photographs. Learn how from one of the best photo books on the shelf.
Design is the single most important factor in creating a successful photograph. It helps you work on your ability to see the potential for a strong picture. Then organize the graphic elements into an effective, compelling composition.
This has always been one of the key skills in making photographs. Learn how from one of the best photo books on the shelf.
14. The Photographer’s Mind – Michael Freeman
The nature of photography demands that the viewer be constantly intrigued. This is more so than in any other art form.
The aim of this book is to answer the question “what makes a photograph great?” It explores the ways in which top photographers achieve this goal, time and time again.
As you delve deeper, The Photographer’s Mind will provide you with invaluable knowledge.
Included is information on avoiding clichés on the cyclical nature of fashion, style, mannerism and light. And even how to handle the unexpected. Hurrah for this, as it is one of the best photo books around.
The aim of this book is to answer the question “what makes a photograph great?” It explores the ways in which top photographers achieve this goal, time and time again.
As you delve deeper, The Photographer’s Mind will provide you with invaluable knowledge.
Included is information on avoiding clichés on the cyclical nature of fashion, style, mannerism and light. And even how to handle the unexpected. Hurrah for this, as it is one of the best photo books around.
13. The Moment it Clicks: Photography Secrets From One of the World’s Top Shooters – Joe McNally
In this book, you’ll see Joe’s brilliant images. They illustrate the many different techniques he employed throughout his career. I’m sure you’ll recognize many of his photos from magazine covers.
You’ll gain insight into the story of how each shot was taken, including which equipment he used. Expect to see information on lenses, f/stops, lighting, accessories, et al.
On top of this, You’ll also gain useful knowledge about the challenges with each type of project. This photography book is great if you are looking to set up a similar shot of your own.
You’ll gain insight into the story of how each shot was taken, including which equipment he used. Expect to see information on lenses, f/stops, lighting, accessories, et al.
On top of this, You’ll also gain useful knowledge about the challenges with each type of project. This photography book is great if you are looking to set up a similar shot of your own.
12. Creative Black and White – Harold Davis
Black-and-white photography poses unique challenges. The main point is this. The contrast, lighting, and composition take on more importance when color doesn’t guide the eye.
Renowned photographer Harold Davis explains these elements. He further demonstrates the basic rules of black and white photography. Also, when and how to break them.
He breaks through the complexity of this photographic medium. On top of this, he explores opportunities for black-and-white imagery. And shows how to capitalize on every one.
Renowned photographer Harold Davis explains these elements. He further demonstrates the basic rules of black and white photography. Also, when and how to break them.
He breaks through the complexity of this photographic medium. On top of this, he explores opportunities for black-and-white imagery. And shows how to capitalize on every one.
Look through his inspirational photography from one of the best photography books around.
Lighting
Lighting is an intrinsic component of photography and takes years to master. This is much longer than getting to grips with, for example, the right exposure settings. This process can be faster by learning from the pros.
Good lighting is rarely achieved by amateurs. By learning the techniques laid out in these books, you’re already rising above the rest.
Good lighting is rarely achieved by amateurs. By learning the techniques laid out in these books, you’re already rising above the rest.
11. Speedliter’s Handbook – Syl Arena
This is a book aimed towards Canon users, but I find it very useful. Having read it, the majority of the information can cross over to other brands.
For those new to flash photography, we have the book. For anyone who has given up out of frustration, the Speedliter’s Handbook is a revelation.
Whether you want to create a classical portrait, shoot an event, or simply add a little fill light. The Speedliter’s Handbook will show you how. This photography book will show you how it should be done.
For those new to flash photography, we have the book. For anyone who has given up out of frustration, the Speedliter’s Handbook is a revelation.
Whether you want to create a classical portrait, shoot an event, or simply add a little fill light. The Speedliter’s Handbook will show you how. This photography book will show you how it should be done.
10. The Hot Shoe Diaries – Joe McNally
In The Hot Shoe Diaries, Joe brings you behind the scenes to share his lighting solutions for a ton of great images.
Using Nikon Speedlights, Joe lets you in on his uncensored thought process. He demonstrates how he makes his pictures with these small flashes. Thanksfully he has very inspirational photography.
Whether he’s photographing a gymnast on the Great Wall, or a fire truck careening through Times Square. Joe uses these flashes to create great light that makes his pictures sing.
Using Nikon Speedlights, Joe lets you in on his uncensored thought process. He demonstrates how he makes his pictures with these small flashes. Thanksfully he has very inspirational photography.
Whether he’s photographing a gymnast on the Great Wall, or a fire truck careening through Times Square. Joe uses these flashes to create great light that makes his pictures sing.
Photography
It’s hard to choose a photographer, in particular, to add to this list. This is because, for every photographer I add, I have to disregard 100.
I’ve chosen the work of many over the work of one. I also included some of my favorite collections of photos ever published.
You can learn a lot by looking at other people’s photos. This is what makes these photography books as important as a book on the basics.
I’ve chosen the work of many over the work of one. I also included some of my favorite collections of photos ever published.
You can learn a lot by looking at other people’s photos. This is what makes these photography books as important as a book on the basics.
9. Decade – Aemmon McCabe
This was a recent birthday present and I’ve been picking it up daily ever since. It’s not difficult to understand why this is one of the best photo books around.
It’s a collection of famous photos of memorable events from the past 10 years. The images coupled with a brief description of what the photo is about.
It helps to jog your memory and remind you of what’s going on in the world. I find it a good source of inspiration but it’s just as good a coffee table book or conversation piece.
It’s a collection of famous photos of memorable events from the past 10 years. The images coupled with a brief description of what the photo is about.
It helps to jog your memory and remind you of what’s going on in the world. I find it a good source of inspiration but it’s just as good a coffee table book or conversation piece.
8. The Americans – Robert Frank
A very famous collection of photos from Robert Frank shot during 1955-1956. In a nutshell, it’s an amazing collection of photos. Hard to believe they came from one photographer’s viewfinder.
He saw the roiling racial tension, glamour and beauty and, Americans’ love for cars. This might be because Frank himself had a fondness of the road.
It’s a great reminder of America’s past with some fantastic photography. Not only is this famous photographer’s work inspirational, but together, it makes one of the best photo books on the shelf.
He saw the roiling racial tension, glamour and beauty and, Americans’ love for cars. This might be because Frank himself had a fondness of the road.
It’s a great reminder of America’s past with some fantastic photography. Not only is this famous photographer’s work inspirational, but together, it makes one of the best photo books on the shelf.
7. National Geographic Image Collection – National Geographic
National Geographic has a worldwide reputation. Behind this lies one of the most unique graphic resources on Earth. I present The National Geographic Image Collection.
It’s an archive from the earliest photographs. From the late 19th century to the cutting-edge work of today. It includes both iconic and never-before-seen images from virtually every corner of the globe.
Every species of wildlife is represented. Amazing human achievements in exploration, adventure, science, and more showcase here. They place themselves in a historic, artistic, technical, and journalistic context. Do your self a favor and grab a copy of one of the best photo books on the internet.
It’s an archive from the earliest photographs. From the late 19th century to the cutting-edge work of today. It includes both iconic and never-before-seen images from virtually every corner of the globe.
Every species of wildlife is represented. Amazing human achievements in exploration, adventure, science, and more showcase here. They place themselves in a historic, artistic, technical, and journalistic context. Do your self a favor and grab a copy of one of the best photo books on the internet.
6. Examples: The Making of 40 Photographs – Ansel Adams
Truly some of the best black and white photography I’ve ever seen.
Each of Adams’ 40 photographs presented here accompanies an engaging narrative. The text explores the technical and aesthetic problems presented by the subject. This includes the reminiscences of the places and people involved.
The man is an artist, through and through. As far as famous photographers go, Ansel Adams is at the top of the list. Grab a copy and understand what makes this one of the best photography books.
Each of Adams’ 40 photographs presented here accompanies an engaging narrative. The text explores the technical and aesthetic problems presented by the subject. This includes the reminiscences of the places and people involved.
The man is an artist, through and through. As far as famous photographers go, Ansel Adams is at the top of the list. Grab a copy and understand what makes this one of the best photography books.
5. The Platinum Anniversary Collection: 70 Years of Extraordinary Photography – LiFE
This book has collected 70 years of photography. They all come from one of the most influential publications of the 20th century.
Like Decade and National Geographic, LiFE presents history in photos. The book highlights the most famous and beautiful pictures from the magazine’s history.
Like Decade and National Geographic, LiFE presents history in photos. The book highlights the most famous and beautiful pictures from the magazine’s history.
4. Our World Now 4 (Fourth Edition): Reuters
The fourth edition of Our World Now captures the key events from 2010. You’ll find more than 350 powerful photographs.
Organized into four sections, images cover the full range of global reporting. Each section represents a season or quarter of the year.
Politics, commerce, conflict, the environment, natural disasters, faith and festivities. Even entertainment, celebrity and lifestyle are all represented.
The photos offer a fresh take on the year’s most memorable events as well as plenty of less-familiar stories.
Organized into four sections, images cover the full range of global reporting. Each section represents a season or quarter of the year.
Politics, commerce, conflict, the environment, natural disasters, faith and festivities. Even entertainment, celebrity and lifestyle are all represented.
The photos offer a fresh take on the year’s most memorable events as well as plenty of less-familiar stories.
Post Processing
When you’ve been out taking photos all day, there are always going to be a few that need extra work. If you’re shooting in RAW, there’s going to be a lot.
Below are the best books on the three most popular post-processing software.
Below are the best books on the three most popular post-processing software.
3. The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic CC Book – Scott Kelby
Scott Kelby is an American photographer and the publisher of many books. He is an avid user and educator of Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, which this book focuses on.
Here, Scott did his biggest update ever. He shares all of his latest techniques, insights, and invaluable tips. His award-winning, step-by-step, plain-English style makes learning Lightroom easy and fun. He doesn’t just show you which sliders do what (every Lightroom book does that, right?).
Instead, he shares his own personal settings and time-tested techniques. A great and proven step-by-step method of learning Lightroom. So you can begin using it like a pro from the start.
2. Real World Image Sharpening with Adobe Photoshop, Camera Raw, and Lightroom – Bruce Fraser
Of all the post-production features you will need, image sharpening is one of the most important. This photography book looks at image sharpening across three different software platforms.
You can sharpen images in Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom and Camera Raw. The book shows you every possible way. A great book for anyone using any of the mentioned programs, or even if you have all three.
1. The Adobe Photoshop CC Book – Andrew Faulkner &
For beginners, Adobe Photoshop is stressful and difficult to learn. From the get-go, you’ll realize that the post-production software has a very steep learning curve. Thankfully, Andrew Faulkner and Conrad Chavez created The Adobe Photoshop CC Book.
If easy-to-understand text is the best way for you to learn, this is the book for you. There are images alongside every technique and feature. This will help you find the right place for your mouse-clicks. This book is a perfect addition to any photographer’s bookshelf.
Bonus
Your Camera Manual!
There is so much information in there. Not just irrelevant facts specific to your camera as you might think.
The day I got my first DSLR, I got out the manual and began reading. I must have read it, while playing with my camera, for two weeks.
It always frustrates me when friends don’t know how to do something on their camera. That’s the one thing holding them back. If they just knew how to work their cameras, they’d be much better photographers.
Have I missed one of your favorites? Almost certainly. Leave a comment to let us and everyone else reading this know what you think is worth reading.
If you want to get to know more about photography, check out our new post about photography facts next!
The day I got my first DSLR, I got out the manual and began reading. I must have read it, while playing with my camera, for two weeks.
It always frustrates me when friends don’t know how to do something on their camera. That’s the one thing holding them back. If they just knew how to work their cameras, they’d be much better photographers.
Have I missed one of your favorites? Almost certainly. Leave a comment to let us and everyone else reading this know what you think is worth reading.
If you want to get to know more about photography, check out our new post about photography facts next!
Save this article to your Pinterest profile to access it later!
Best Photography Books Pdf Downloads
We’ve scoured the web to create the ultimate list of free photography books in 2019. There’s never been a better time to learn photography – the wealth of information available on the Internet for zero cost is just staggering!
From free photography books for beginners to more advanced tutorials and guides for seasoned amateur photographers, there’s something educational and entertaining here for everyone.
Limited time free ebook offer 250+ Free Photography ebooksOver 250 fun & informative eBooks to help improve your photography. (Every genre covered.) |
We’ll be keeping this list of photography books updated as the year progresses and we come across more titles. If you have any good recommendations, please leave them in the comments below so everyone can benefit.
Best Free Photography Books in October 2019
1. 5 Tips for Success When Starting Out in Night Sky Photography – by Photzy
Best Photography Books Of All Time
Night sky photography has been all the rage recently, especially over Instagram. No doubt yu’ll have seen beautiful long exposure shots of the milky way or flying comets. Learn from a professional night sky photography with this excellent free ebook from Photzy.
2. Selling Fine Art Photography – by PhotoShelter
Fine art photography is a way for the photographer to express his or her work as an artist, without the constraints of a particular genre. Selling fine art photography can be a lucrative venture if conducted well, and in this free ebook you’ll learn some of the tips to making your first sale.
3. The Photographer’s Guide to Copyright – by PhotoShelter
Make sure you know where you stand regarding the law and your ownership of images. PhotoShelter pumps out the free photography books, and this is one of many they offer.
4. The Camera Buying Guide – by Photo Concentrate
Whilst guides such as these quickly go out of date, this one by Photo Concentrate contains some useful tips on your next camera purchase that are still very much relevant today.
5. Selling Stock Photography: A Guide to Licensing Images From Your Archive – by PhotoShelter
There’s a lot of money to be made from stock photography. It’s a rare photographic passive income source, which can allow you to make money even as you sleep. Here’s a handy guide on how to get started.
6. Good Photos in Bad Light – by Darwin Wiggett
I love the title of this free photography ebook which includes plenty of tips and tricks on how to get the most out of every lighting situation you find yourself in. Essential reading for all the budding wedding photographers out there.
7. Guide to Portrait Photography Basics – by Adorama
No matter what your level as a photographer, it’s always possible to improve. This free guide on portrait photography from Adorama can help both beginners and advanced photographers alike, with easy to follow guides on developing and maintaining a solid foundation of portrait photography. Definitely something for everyone.
8. Photo Business Plan Workbook – by Photo Shelter
This one may have been written a few years ago, but the advice is still relevant. It’s a step-by-step guide to help you implement a rock-solid business plan, target the photo clients you want, and land more gigs.
9. 8 Types Of Natural Light That Will Add Drama To Your Photographs – by Anne McKinnell
Who’d have though there were so many different types of natural light? Anne describes the best way to use your camera in different natural lighting situations in this useful free photography ebook available on iTunes.
10. Before The Shutter: Planning Your Next Travel Photography Adventure by Anne McKinnell
An interesting read on a topic that’s not very often discussed – the planning that goes behind a photography trip. You’ll learn essential tips and techniques to get the most from your next trip, so you’ll be well prepared before you even pick up your camera.
11. Starting a Photography Business – by PhotoShelter
These guys know what they’re talking about when it comes to building a successful photography business. If you need a hand with where to start, check out this free ebook.
12. Insights from Beyond the Lens – Inside The Art and Craft of Landscape Photography – by Robert Rodriguez Jr
This free ebook offers an entertaining read about a journey to discover the art, craft and passion that lies behind landscape photography. What’s more, the images inside are simply stunning.
13. The Ultimate Social Media Guide For Photographers – by PhotoJaanic
Even though the online landscape is constantly and rapidly changing, this 2018 guide offers a lot of useful information to help guide you through the social media maze. It covers best practices for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest, with practical examples and plenty of marketing tips.
14. The Heart of Portraiture: Examples of Portrait Photography – by Don Giannatti
20 examples of portrait photography and a discussion on the technique and thought process that went into shooting them, all from photographer and author of Lighting Essentials, Don Giannatti.
15. Five Easy Steps To Shoot In Manual Mode – by Kimberly Gauthier
Shooting in manual mode is essential for your advancement as a photographer. This free ebook does a good job of breaking down the steps necessary to make that jump.
16. Photography Tips For Beginning Photographers, Amateur Photographers & Experienced Amateur Photographers – by Kalem Aquil
A bit of a broad-ranging free photography ebook this one, but still, it has some useful advice to offer – especially for the beginner photographer or those just using cheaper cameras and mobile phones.
17. Street Photography for the Purist – by Chris Weeks
A collection of raw and gritty black and white photos, including commentary on technique by this street photographer.
18. 15 Incredible Bird Photography Tips For Beginners – by Prathap
I’m not sure if the tips really are that ‘incredible’, but nevertheless, if you’re interested in bird photography this free ebook will give you 15 ideas to think about before clicking the shutter.
19. Exposure: Understanding Light – by Nigel Hicks
A detailed explanation in this free photography ebook from a 4 part course that delves into the somewhat complex topic of light, and why it’s the photographer’s number one ally.
20. HDR Top Tips by Klaus Herrmann
Similar to exposure blending is the technique of HDR photography. Learn how to get the most punch out of the dynamic range of your camera’s files and learn how to do HDR photography in this interesting book of tips – check out our Aurora HDR review for more tips.
21. Introduction to External Flash Photography – by Photo Extremist
The complicated topic of off camera flash photography made easier to understand. Essential reading in this free photography ebook.
22. Photoshop CS6 Essential Skills – by Mark Galer & Philip Andrews
Taken from the book of the same name, this introduction to the essential skills of Photoshop CS6 includes guides on useful post processing techniques such as colour grading, tilt-shift, faux Holga, lens flare and several more. If you’re interested in improving the look of your photos using Photoshop, this free ebook available on the iTunes store is a good one.
23. Lightroom Tips – by Shotkit
This one’s an ebook that we converted into an article – you’ll be able to learn a handful of useful tips and tricks to make your Lightroom experience more efficient and enjoyable.
24. Photography for Beginners – by Joseph Scolden
Not everyone who visits Shotkit is an experienced photographer. For those of you who are picking up a dSLR camera for the first time, this free photography book could be of use to you. The author goes into detail about the main functions of a dSLR camera, and how you can use them to take your first photo. If you’re just starting out, you might also be interested in this post on the best cameras under $500.
25. 10 Tips to Improve your Travel Photography – by Michael Chia
Best Books Of Photography
I wasn’t expecting much from this short photo book that’s available for free on iTunes, but I was pleasantly surprised. As well as the 10 useful tips to improve your photography while on holiday, the ebook also contains some really good photos – vibrant, well composed and of interesting subjects. Definitely one to install on your iPad for some holiday reading.
26. Lighting Essentials – by UNSW
It’s strange that an Australian university should have a free book on photography available in iTunes, but I’m glad they do! Lighting Essentials covers the primary concepts involved with video and photography lighting, including the use of continuous light sources and flash. Each chapter ends with a useful quiz to test your newly acquired knowledge on the topic.
27. Black & White Fine Art Photography of Highton Ridley – by Highton Ridley
Highton Ridley is a well-known BBC-commissioned and award-winning photographer who is worth checking out. In this ebook he explores the intimate relationship between light and shadow through some of his best pieces.
28. History and Practice of the Art of Photography – by Henri Hunt Snelling
In order to break the rules you must first master them. It’s more or less the same when it comes to the history of the art of photography. In this ebook you’ll learn not only about the basic rules, but also how to put them into practice and how to use your knowledge to keep yourself at the top of your photography game.
29. The Shy Photographer’s Guide To Confidence – by Lauren Lim
This one’s been around for a while but the information is just as relevant today as ever. Photographers are often introverted characters, and this free photography ebook gives advice on how to gain the confidence to interact with your subject and become a better photographer.
30. Airplane Photography – by Herbert Eugene Ives
This one is definitely an interesting read to stumble upon on the internet. It sheds some light on how things used to be before the drone era. Here you can learn which lenses are suitable for aerial photography, what kind of filers you should use or how light distributes in the aerial view.
31. Ultimate Field Guide to Photography – by National Geographic
This one is a truly great resource to take advantage of. Here you’ll be able to find very useful pieces of advice concerning topics like “What type of lens do I need?” or “Understanding histograms”. Just keep in mind that the guide is more suitable for beginners.
32. Starting a Photography Business – by Matt Whatley, John Harrington, Greg Smith and Frank Meo
This guide could be a great starting point if you’ve decided to run your own business. It’s divided into two sections: in the first one you can enjoy expert advice from the four authors and in the second one you can get inspired by six real life stories of photographers who struggled, but succeeded to maintain a successful business.
33. Street photography – by Daniel Hoffmann
Here you can take a breather from all the gear talks. In this ebook the author intentionally focuses more on the photos themselves and not on the technical side of things. Under each image featured you’ll see a comment both from Ronald Beams and Daniel Hoffmann.
34. Close-up and Macro Photography – by Michael Erlewine
If you’re someone who’s fascinated by the technical aspects of photography then probably you’ll be naturally interested in this guide. Here you can find all sorts of information concerning close-up and macro photography – from focus stacking to panorama problems.
35. The Photographer’s Guide to Facebook – by Photoshelter
If you run a photography business or you’re simply trying to attract more attention to your work, Facebook can definitely help. In this guide you’ll learn how to engage your audience and also you’ll be able to read about some successful examples of other photographers who have used Facebook to promote their skills and talent.
36. 31 Days to Overcome Your Fear of Shooting Street Photography – by Eric Kim
Street Photography is a great genre to indulge in, but it does take more than technical skills to be able to master it. In this ebook the author represents his point of view on how to best address your fear of shooting on the street. You will learn how to avoid potential conflicts by remaining calm and confident.
37. Post Exposure – by Ctein
This ebook is a great read if you want to learn more about post-processing. It all starts with detailed explanations on how we perceive colour and how the camera “sees” it.
Best Photography Books
38. 7 Simple Ways To Market Your Wedding Photography Business – by Photography Concentrate
Even if you’re an experienced Wedding Photographer, there’s still room for improvement with your marketing. Learn some helpful hints in this useful free ebook by Photography Concentrate.
39. Wildflower Photography – by Steve Berardi
There’s a lot of information out there concerning the wide-spread photography topics but not such a great variety when it comes down to the less popular ones. In this guide you’ll have the opportunity to get specific: the author reveals 13 useful tips for creating the perfect wildflower photographs.
40. Motivational Essays on Photography – by Scott Bourne
One more gem for people who don’t recognize the technical stuff as the most important aspect of photography. Here you’ll find 10 great essays on inspiration, creativity, storytelling and vision: the real essentials.
41. Introduction to Night Photography Ideas – by Alister Benn
Night photography is a whole different universe and it could also be a great source of inspiration. With this ebook you’ll dive into the mysteries of night shooting and you’ll also get familiar with the must-have equipment you’ll need.
42. Urban Exploration – by Neil Ta
Urbex, as it’s known, is a fast-growing photography niche and this free ebook does a great job in introducing it. Don’t be surprised if it makes you want to go out and grab a compass and map…
43. 100 Lessons From the Masters of Street Photography – by Eric Kim
This one is an open-source ebook which will definitely grab your attention. It contains a lot of inspirational quotes and thoughts by the great masters of street photography. It’s a must-read if you’re feeling uninspired and you need to get back on track.
44. 6 Tips to Make Your Clouds Appear Dramatic – by Photzy
Here’s another great free photo ebook by Photzy which will help bring some drama to the clouds in your landscape photography. All the tips are simple to understand and to implement. If you’re interested in learning more, check out our Photzy Action Cards Review – a fun way to advance your photography skills to the next level.
45. How to Photograph Strangers – by Photzy
If you want to improve as a street photographer, it’s important that you gain confidence photographing strangers. The tips in this fantastic little ebook are also useful for other genres of photography where people are involved.
Free Photography eBooks | Final Words
It’s great that here in 2019 there are so many excellent ebooks on various aspects of photography… and they’re available for free! If you’ve got a tablet or smartphone, download a selection of them as PDFs to read later.
While getting stuff for free is obviously amazing, don’t forget to invest a little in your photography education too. Whether that means purchasing books, enrolling in courses, or attending workshops, spending a little on improving at your favourite hobby is always a good idea.
I hope you enjoyed the guide – please remember to share it with a friend ;-)