Description:
Editorial Reviews
About the Author
Reviews:
5.0 out of 5 stars Best photography book for artists and aspiring creators.
Probably the best instructional photography book out there. Treats photography as an art form wile giving concrete examples of universal and in some cases ancient compositional techniques. And DOES mention equipment, lens choice etc but only in the context of helping to convey your message. Highly recommended.
5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring, Insightful, and Practical: A Must-Read for Every Photographer
Inspiring, Insightful, and Practical: A Must-Read for Every PhotographerTed Forbes’ Visually Speaking: Mastering The Art of Photography is more than just a photography book—it’s an invitation to see the world differently. From the moment I opened it, I felt like I was having a one-on-one conversation with a mentor who truly understands the craft and the artistry of storytelling through a lens.A Book About More Than PhotographyWhat sets Visually Speaking apart is its focus on the “why” behind photography. Forbes dives deep into the idea that photography is a language—a way to communicate stories and emotions that go beyond the surface. He encourages photographers to create with intention, whether shooting in vivid color or dramatic black and white. This message resonated deeply with me and reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place.Gear Isn’t Everything, and That’s a ReliefOne of the most refreshing aspects of this book is Forbes’ perspective on gear. While many photography books fixate on equipment, Visually Speaking shifts the focus to vision and creativity. Some of the book’s most powerful images, like his cloudscapes of Texan skies, were taken on a mobile phone. These photos demonstrate that simplicity can be profound and that the best camera is the one you have with you.Practical Advice Backed by Stunning VisualsForbes balances theory with practical advice, offering insights on composition, focal lengths, and the use of negative space. His writing is approachable, and the book is filled with inspiring visuals that demonstrate his points. One standout spread features two seemingly unrelated images—a man smoking in solitude and a bustling Tokyo restaurant. Together, they create a narrative that lingers long after you turn the page.Perfect for Photographers of All LevelsWhether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this book offers something valuable. Forbes’ conversational tone makes complex concepts accessible, while his emphasis on experimentation and intent challenges readers to push their boundaries. It’s both a learning tool and a source of inspiration.Final ThoughtsIf you’re looking for a book that will challenge, inspire, and change the way you approach photography, Visually Speaking is it. Ted Forbes has created a guide that speaks to the heart of why we create: to tell stories, evoke emotions, and see the world through a unique perspective. This book has already transformed how I think about my work, and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone looking to grow as a photographer and storyteller.
5.0 out of 5 stars A keeper for any photographer
Covers all the bases, great pictures and photography guidance.
4.0 out of 5 stars Good, with caveats
I have been following Ted's excellent Youtube channel for several years and was excited to learn about his book. This is a good book IMO with plenty to like but also some aspects that could have been better.I very much appreciate the concept and framing of the book: visual language, rather than yet another book explaining basic technique or over indexing on gear. The print quality is great, graphic design is good, layout is very thoughtful.This book covers a lot of ground (while retaining a manageable size and cost) and that's perhaps what lead to some of the compromises exposed. In particular, the book felt to me very uneven on its quality and depth across sections. I alternated between being completely absorbed by the book discussion and pictures to, at other times, feeling completely let down. Some chapters are very well written with wonderful images complementing the text and illustrating the concepts being discussed. Others, felt rough and ready or overly compressed. The most extreme example of the later is probably chapter 7, which discusses the concept of 'negative space' to which the author devotes one page of discussion and one example image. Yes, that is literally a two page chapter. One could argue that more could have been said and shown about negative space. Chapter 8 is three pages long.This leaves the book on a tricky middle ground in terms of its target audience I'd argue. If you are a beginner, understanding some of these concepts with such a succinct treatment might be difficult. I you have more experience, they might not have enough substance to help you on your path. Perhaps dividing this effort into multiple volumes could have been a better choice.Despite these considerations, I do believe this book is worth reading. Ted's love for the craft and knowledge of its history comes through. Ralph's Gibson forward to the book is appropriate IMO: this book is very good a framing interesting questions about what visual language is or could be; just don't expect to find all the answers in here.--Minor nit, there is broken cross-reference: on page 256 the allusion to Ori Gersht's reproduction reads "see page 89" and it should say page 91.
5.0 out of 5 stars Very usefull
Amazing quality and deep knowledge. Extraordinary choice. Practical, rational and emotional perspective, very useful.
5.0 out of 5 stars A great addition to my reference library
This book is a fantastic resource on the art of photography, offering comprehensive coverage of every aspect of the craft. Packed with stunning images that beautifully illustrate each topic, it’s both informative and inspiring. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in pursuing photography as a hobby or a career.
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic
I’ve been a very amateur photographer for 35-40 years. A lot of what’s in here I’ve “discovered “ myself over the years . This book would have brought me ahead by decades if I had it at the start ! 😂However there are loads of hidden gems on composition and framing Ive learnt from this book . And the way Ted references other art forms when referring to the art of photography is something I had never considered. I love this book . It’s a must for all photographers
a good and understandable book
most books go about technical aspects of photography: tools and techniquesThis book goes about the art and communication aspects of Photography.What makes a picture a good picture.What think process can help.It is in understandable book
like no other
“Photography is a visual language –a universal and very powerful language.”I have many Photography books on my shelves, as my camera was for a very long time my only way to express myself, but Visually Speaking is not like any of these.If you are looking for a “technical manual” this is clearly not the right book. This one is more about finding your voice, and if it talks about the ways you can do it, it’s always related to how to communicate an idea, and not in scientific or setting point of views. I truly enjoyed that decision, and I wish more “how-to-books” were built this way –no matter the Art into consideration. The focus here is the emotion, the idea the photograph wants to express, the sense of the image. It’s not about technique, it’s about meaning.I also loved the pictures (from the author, but also from other photographs) the author chose as examples. They were a guide to think about, but also gorgeous –the quality of the paper being a great help too.That book came to me when I needed it the most as it mentions the “writer block for photographers”. That’s the first time I’ve heard about it, but that’s also something I’m experiencing very much for a couple of years. Reading it, reading the whole book, gave me a new motivation to take my camera. For that, I’m grateful.
Well written and easily read.
If you've seen Ted's YouTube videos you'll know his style and this is true for his book. Unlike some art photography books his is quite readable. There's plenty of excellent images and sound advice mixed with his own autobiographical thoughts.Well worth picking this one up.
Excellent book!
Well written, clear concepts, well illustrated to reinforce the ideas discussed. If you wish to improve your photography, this is a great place to start.
A must have!
I’ve been a fan of Tex Forbes since 2014, and he never fails to impress.The book is compact yet powerful, like carrying a piece of classic Forbes energy in your hand. It balances elegance with practicality, and the visual presentation makes every idea feel sharp and timeless.A must have!
Visit the Cider Mill Press Store
Visually Speaking: Mastering Photography as a Visual Language
AED18511
Quantity:
Order today to get by 7-14 business days
Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.
Imported From: United States
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Visit the Cider Mill Press Store
Visually Speaking: Mastering Photography as a Visual Language
AED18511
Quantity:
Order today to get by 7-14 business days
Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.
Imported From: United States
At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.
BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.
Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.
If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.
Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.
All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.
While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.
Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.
BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.
All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.
All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.
Description:
Editorial Reviews
About the Author
Reviews:
5.0 out of 5 stars Best photography book for artists and aspiring creators.
Probably the best instructional photography book out there. Treats photography as an art form wile giving concrete examples of universal and in some cases ancient compositional techniques. And DOES mention equipment, lens choice etc but only in the context of helping to convey your message. Highly recommended.
5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring, Insightful, and Practical: A Must-Read for Every Photographer
Inspiring, Insightful, and Practical: A Must-Read for Every PhotographerTed Forbes’ Visually Speaking: Mastering The Art of Photography is more than just a photography book—it’s an invitation to see the world differently. From the moment I opened it, I felt like I was having a one-on-one conversation with a mentor who truly understands the craft and the artistry of storytelling through a lens.A Book About More Than PhotographyWhat sets Visually Speaking apart is its focus on the “why” behind photography. Forbes dives deep into the idea that photography is a language—a way to communicate stories and emotions that go beyond the surface. He encourages photographers to create with intention, whether shooting in vivid color or dramatic black and white. This message resonated deeply with me and reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place.Gear Isn’t Everything, and That’s a ReliefOne of the most refreshing aspects of this book is Forbes’ perspective on gear. While many photography books fixate on equipment, Visually Speaking shifts the focus to vision and creativity. Some of the book’s most powerful images, like his cloudscapes of Texan skies, were taken on a mobile phone. These photos demonstrate that simplicity can be profound and that the best camera is the one you have with you.Practical Advice Backed by Stunning VisualsForbes balances theory with practical advice, offering insights on composition, focal lengths, and the use of negative space. His writing is approachable, and the book is filled with inspiring visuals that demonstrate his points. One standout spread features two seemingly unrelated images—a man smoking in solitude and a bustling Tokyo restaurant. Together, they create a narrative that lingers long after you turn the page.Perfect for Photographers of All LevelsWhether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this book offers something valuable. Forbes’ conversational tone makes complex concepts accessible, while his emphasis on experimentation and intent challenges readers to push their boundaries. It’s both a learning tool and a source of inspiration.Final ThoughtsIf you’re looking for a book that will challenge, inspire, and change the way you approach photography, Visually Speaking is it. Ted Forbes has created a guide that speaks to the heart of why we create: to tell stories, evoke emotions, and see the world through a unique perspective. This book has already transformed how I think about my work, and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone looking to grow as a photographer and storyteller.
5.0 out of 5 stars A keeper for any photographer
Covers all the bases, great pictures and photography guidance.
4.0 out of 5 stars Good, with caveats
I have been following Ted's excellent Youtube channel for several years and was excited to learn about his book. This is a good book IMO with plenty to like but also some aspects that could have been better.I very much appreciate the concept and framing of the book: visual language, rather than yet another book explaining basic technique or over indexing on gear. The print quality is great, graphic design is good, layout is very thoughtful.This book covers a lot of ground (while retaining a manageable size and cost) and that's perhaps what lead to some of the compromises exposed. In particular, the book felt to me very uneven on its quality and depth across sections. I alternated between being completely absorbed by the book discussion and pictures to, at other times, feeling completely let down. Some chapters are very well written with wonderful images complementing the text and illustrating the concepts being discussed. Others, felt rough and ready or overly compressed. The most extreme example of the later is probably chapter 7, which discusses the concept of 'negative space' to which the author devotes one page of discussion and one example image. Yes, that is literally a two page chapter. One could argue that more could have been said and shown about negative space. Chapter 8 is three pages long.This leaves the book on a tricky middle ground in terms of its target audience I'd argue. If you are a beginner, understanding some of these concepts with such a succinct treatment might be difficult. I you have more experience, they might not have enough substance to help you on your path. Perhaps dividing this effort into multiple volumes could have been a better choice.Despite these considerations, I do believe this book is worth reading. Ted's love for the craft and knowledge of its history comes through. Ralph's Gibson forward to the book is appropriate IMO: this book is very good a framing interesting questions about what visual language is or could be; just don't expect to find all the answers in here.--Minor nit, there is broken cross-reference: on page 256 the allusion to Ori Gersht's reproduction reads "see page 89" and it should say page 91.
5.0 out of 5 stars Very usefull
Amazing quality and deep knowledge. Extraordinary choice. Practical, rational and emotional perspective, very useful.
5.0 out of 5 stars A great addition to my reference library
This book is a fantastic resource on the art of photography, offering comprehensive coverage of every aspect of the craft. Packed with stunning images that beautifully illustrate each topic, it’s both informative and inspiring. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in pursuing photography as a hobby or a career.
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic
I’ve been a very amateur photographer for 35-40 years. A lot of what’s in here I’ve “discovered “ myself over the years . This book would have brought me ahead by decades if I had it at the start ! 😂However there are loads of hidden gems on composition and framing Ive learnt from this book . And the way Ted references other art forms when referring to the art of photography is something I had never considered. I love this book . It’s a must for all photographers
a good and understandable book
most books go about technical aspects of photography: tools and techniquesThis book goes about the art and communication aspects of Photography.What makes a picture a good picture.What think process can help.It is in understandable book
like no other
“Photography is a visual language –a universal and very powerful language.”I have many Photography books on my shelves, as my camera was for a very long time my only way to express myself, but Visually Speaking is not like any of these.If you are looking for a “technical manual” this is clearly not the right book. This one is more about finding your voice, and if it talks about the ways you can do it, it’s always related to how to communicate an idea, and not in scientific or setting point of views. I truly enjoyed that decision, and I wish more “how-to-books” were built this way –no matter the Art into consideration. The focus here is the emotion, the idea the photograph wants to express, the sense of the image. It’s not about technique, it’s about meaning.I also loved the pictures (from the author, but also from other photographs) the author chose as examples. They were a guide to think about, but also gorgeous –the quality of the paper being a great help too.That book came to me when I needed it the most as it mentions the “writer block for photographers”. That’s the first time I’ve heard about it, but that’s also something I’m experiencing very much for a couple of years. Reading it, reading the whole book, gave me a new motivation to take my camera. For that, I’m grateful.
Well written and easily read.
If you've seen Ted's YouTube videos you'll know his style and this is true for his book. Unlike some art photography books his is quite readable. There's plenty of excellent images and sound advice mixed with his own autobiographical thoughts.Well worth picking this one up.
Excellent book!
Well written, clear concepts, well illustrated to reinforce the ideas discussed. If you wish to improve your photography, this is a great place to start.
A must have!
I’ve been a fan of Tex Forbes since 2014, and he never fails to impress.The book is compact yet powerful, like carrying a piece of classic Forbes energy in your hand. It balances elegance with practicality, and the visual presentation makes every idea feel sharp and timeless.A must have!
Similar suggestions by Bolo
More from this brand
Similar items from “Color”
Share with
Or share with link
https://www.bolo.ae/products/U1646434358