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The Art of Photography: A Personal Approach to Artistic Expression

Description:

This is an updated and newly revised edition of the classic book The Art of Photography: An Approach to Personal Expression. Originally published in 1994 and first revised in 2010, The Art of Photography has sold well over 100,000 copies and has firmly established itself as the most readable, understandable, and complete textbook on photography. Featuring nearly 200 beautiful photographs in both black-and-white and color, as well as numerous charts, graphs, and tables, this book presents the world of photography to beginner, intermediate, and advanced photographers who seek to make a personal statement through the medium of photography.

Without talking down to anyone or talking over anyone's head, renowned photographer, teacher, and author Bruce Barnbaum presents how-to techniques for both traditional and digital approaches. In this newest edition of the book, Barnbaum has included many new images and has completely revised the text, with particular focus on two crucial chapters covering digital photography: he revised a chapter covering the digital zone system, and includes a brand-new chapter on image adjustments using digital tools. There is also a new chapter discussing the concepts of “art versus technique” and “traditional versus digital” approaches to photography. Throughout the book, Barnbaum goes well beyond the technical, as he delves deeply into the philosophical, expressive, and creative aspects of photography so often avoided in other books.

Barnbaum is recognized as one of the world's finest landscape and architectural photographers, and for decades has been considered one of the best instructors in the field of photography. This latest incarnation of his textbook—which has evolved, grown, and been refined over the past 45 years—will prove to be an ongoing, invaluable photographic reference for years to come. It is truly the resource of choice for the thinking photographer.Topics include:

  • Elements of Composition
  • Visualization
  • Light and Color
  • Filters
  • Black-and-White
  • The Digital Zone System
  • The Zone System for Film
  • Printing and Presentation
  • Exploding Photographic Myths
  • Artistic Integrity
  • Realism, Abstraction, and Art
  • Creativity and Intuition
  • A Personal Philosophy
  • And much, much more…


Editorial Reviews

Review

The Art of Photography is a must-have book for any photographer, whether starting out or veteran. It certainly is a must for photographers who have never shot with film. The book discusses everything there is to know, from technical to art related. …[It] is a book that makes you think. …every serious photographer who isn’t afraid to question his own skills should buy and read this book. ~Erik Vleitnch, IT Enquirer

Barnbaum is successful in bringing the title to reality for the conscientious student: when a person with a camera can express themselves with their work and truly communicate with the viewer, he or she will have discovered The Art of Photography. ~Frank Etier, Technorati Media

There are many ways to improve your photography. Most take years and many are hit-or-miss. If you want to move quickly to the front of the class, you’d do well to spend some time with this newest release from Bruce Barnbaum. Having spent years combing through photo books at the Cleveland Public Library back in the 80’s, I wish this one had been there when I started. …I can’t tell the number of people I know who could have been great photographers, but thought they needed to be something they were not. If you internalize most of this book, you’ll have the best style of all…“someone who just takes really good photos.” ~Doug Bardwell, Examiner.com

An amazing book on the art of photography. It challenges one's personal focus and passion about practicing one's own art - be it photography or in some other medium. ~Patsy R. Richardson, Amazon.com

I would urge every photographer who sees himself or herself as more than a technician but as an artist to devour this book and immerse oneself in what it is trying to communicate and think about it. It really will help you see like you never have before. ~Walter Pike, Amazon.com

The reader, whether a beginning film photographer, a digital photographer, or an advanced photographer who has begun the intense analysis of their work in their attempt to move from technical competence to truly artistic vision, will find something of value in this volume. I found it a seriously interesting read with parts I kept returning to after some thought on the processes discussed. ~Michael N. Roach, DigitalAppleJuice.com

Bruce Barnbaum’s The Art of Photogrpahy is the best book I’ve read in over 40 years of reading about photography. Bruce Barnbaum goes further and deeper into explaining the intangibles that make a great photograph than anyone else ever has. If you want to learn how to create powerful photographs instead of just snapping away and hoping something turns out later in your computer, this is the one book you must read. …It is the best book for people willing to invest the time and effort demanded to create brilliant photographs. ~Ken Rockwell

This book has made me a better artist. Mr. Barnbaum, I will be forever in your debt. This book almost immediately made me a true artist who can now consistently and deliberately create the exact message I want to communicate. ~Andrew M., Amazon.com

If you would like to find a book that will take you into a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of what makes for a great photograph then this book does that and more. ~Lloyd M. Bentsen, Amazon.com

About the Author

Bruce Barnbaum, of Granite Falls, WA, began photography as a hobbyist in the 1960s, and after five decades, it is still his hobby. Photography has also been his life’s work for the past 50 years. Bruce’s educational background includes Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in mathematics from UCLA. After working for several years as a mathematical analyst and computer programmer for missile guidance systems, he abruptly left the field and turned to photography. Bruce is recognized as one of the finest darkroom printers on this planet for his exceptional black-and-white work. He understands light to an extent rarely found and combines this understanding with mastery of composition, applying his knowledge to an extraordinarily wide range of subject matter. Bruce has authored several books that have become classics. The first edition of The Art of Photography: An Approach to Personal Expression was released in 2010 by Rocky Nook. After having sold over 100,000 copies, it is now in its revised second edition. This book became an instant bestseller and is sure to remain a classic for years to come. The Essence of Photography, released in 2015, is now in its second printing. This non-technical book delves deeply into the heart of turning photography from an instrument of recording images to one of making artistic personal statements; progressing from the scene you encountered, to how you feel about the scene you encountered, and then onto how to express that feeling to others. Bruce’s two Tone Poems books are a collaboration of photography and accompanying music. On musical CDs packaged with each book, pianist Judith Cohen―performing solos as well as with other musicians in duets and trios―matches the mood of the imagery found in each book with carefully chosen classical music. Book 1 contains 90 black-and-white images; Book 2 delivers another 91 images. These books, which were magnificently printed in Italy, come in large 12˝x12˝ format. Bruce’s Plateaus and Canyons is an all-color book that displays the wonders of the Colorado Plateau of Northern Arizona and Southern Utah with its varied plateaus, canyons, and unique slit canyons. Bruce has been an active environmental advocate for five decades, both independently and through his involvement and leadership with organizations such as the Sierra Club, the National Audubon Society, the Mountain Loop Conservancy, Futurewise, and the North Cascades Conservation Council.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars A collector’s item

A. · October 3, 2025

I think this book is a gem. Lots of great ideas and a great read.

5.0 out of 5 stars Not Your Average Photography Book

S.C. · November 25, 2020

This is simply a great photography book! It will make you look at your subjects, composition, lighting, and process in a whole new way. It will make you begin to see the whole creative process, from start to finish, before you ever trip the shutter. I really, really liked this book, and I am looking forward to his next release, "The Essence of Photography: Seeing and Creativity" Highly recommended!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing! A must read for ALL photographers.

W.C. · October 4, 2018

An amazing insight into photography and the “whys” of success and failure in capturing meaningful images. Timeless information and inspiration for all photographers regardless of experience. Easily the best (of many) book I have read on photography and it’s artistic interpretation and representation.

4.0 out of 5 stars It probably was great once

M.W. · July 6, 2023

Much of the author’s (authors?) political views are scattered throughout this book. I could have skipped his (their?j political opinion(s?). Other than that it’s a wealth of information. I’m a past film photographer and even I thought there was way too much traditional photography included. I actually skipped entire chapters because of it. I appreciate the thought and it wasn’t a total letdown because of all the other great information. Also much of the digital processing sections were already dated. There’s plenty that’s not so not a total loss. My first review was only 2 stars because of all the political statements but other than that and the dated sections it is worthy of 4 stars upon reflection.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great read

A.N. · June 7, 2025

Did I mention my ex-wife and the photographer? Yeah, this is another book I bought her—probably while she was out doing “photo shoots.” At least one of us was trying to add depth to the relationship.

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Reading

P. · December 21, 2021

I have not read many photography books lately but must say that I found this book to be very helpful in expanding my creativity. I started with black and white film photography 50 years ago and only recently moved to a digital camera. Bruce's book was a walk down memory lane for me and also instructional in digital photography, which I hoped it would be. I'm a little sorry I didn't buy a paper version.

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books of our time

C.M. · October 16, 2022

This is a wonderful book about photography as art. The technical discussions are more suited for today than the classic Ansel Adams books. I learned from this book things I didn't get from others.

5.0 out of 5 stars Insight, inspiration and motivation!

J.A. · June 24, 2019

Arrived days earlier than expected! The book was not wrapped but flipping through the pages it seems new.At a glance, it looks like it’s going to be interesting read. If you’re looking for a “how to book” then this book is not for you. If you’re looking for a photographer’s work and insight as to the wondrous images he took then buy this book. I’m suffering from photographers block right now and this just maybe the inspiration I need.

Really impressed

P. · May 4, 2023

Well, this book is a aesthetic treatise on the subject.... Really well written and full of beautiful images.Very very happy with it!!!!!!

Art Photography

D. · August 2, 2025

Eccellente, davvero completo!

Fantastic for those who know the basics

J.W. · December 15, 2022

This is a wonderfully well written book, with some excellent photographs that are great learning opportunities. It's not a book for beginners, you should be able to look at the photo and understand the technicalities of how it was made, but it's the compositional decisions that are the most important. I can safely say it has really changed my own work, for the better (I hope!)

The title (full title) could not be more accurate.

M.A.C.Q. · March 20, 2018

Very nice book. I own the first edition in hardcopy, and decided to buy this edition for Kindle. I would not say this is a how-to book, a manual, or a textbook. It is more of an insight of the author's evolution as an artist, and the way he executes his self expression through photography. He shows procedures and techniques by no means claiming they are the best or even good ones, but the ones which have worked for him. Some people may not like the style, as he mixes philosophy with photography. I read reviews which claim he is not straight forward, that he tends to deviate from the subject. However, I believe this is the right approach if you look at photography as a media of self expression rather than as a plain money making business. I really enjoyed and would recommend for what it is.

The art is perfectly portrayed

M. · September 1, 2018

A nice book for beginners. Detailed description of elements of compositions are given. This is the only part, which is not really available in online. Other editing techniques and software related bugs can be found in present day Internet market. However, the art of photography, as it is named, is well documented in the book.

The Art of Photography: A Personal Approach to Artistic Expression

Product ID: U1681982102
Condition: New

4.7

AED30834

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Paperback
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

This item qualifies for free delivery

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Imported From: United States

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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.

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The Art of Photography: A Personal Approach to Artistic Expression

Product ID: U1681982102
Condition: New

4.7

The Art of Photography: A Personal Approach to Artistic Expression-0
Type: Paperback

AED30834

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

This item qualifies for free delivery

Returns & Warranty policies

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:

This is an updated and newly revised edition of the classic book The Art of Photography: An Approach to Personal Expression. Originally published in 1994 and first revised in 2010, The Art of Photography has sold well over 100,000 copies and has firmly established itself as the most readable, understandable, and complete textbook on photography. Featuring nearly 200 beautiful photographs in both black-and-white and color, as well as numerous charts, graphs, and tables, this book presents the world of photography to beginner, intermediate, and advanced photographers who seek to make a personal statement through the medium of photography.

Without talking down to anyone or talking over anyone's head, renowned photographer, teacher, and author Bruce Barnbaum presents how-to techniques for both traditional and digital approaches. In this newest edition of the book, Barnbaum has included many new images and has completely revised the text, with particular focus on two crucial chapters covering digital photography: he revised a chapter covering the digital zone system, and includes a brand-new chapter on image adjustments using digital tools. There is also a new chapter discussing the concepts of “art versus technique” and “traditional versus digital” approaches to photography. Throughout the book, Barnbaum goes well beyond the technical, as he delves deeply into the philosophical, expressive, and creative aspects of photography so often avoided in other books.

Barnbaum is recognized as one of the world's finest landscape and architectural photographers, and for decades has been considered one of the best instructors in the field of photography. This latest incarnation of his textbook—which has evolved, grown, and been refined over the past 45 years—will prove to be an ongoing, invaluable photographic reference for years to come. It is truly the resource of choice for the thinking photographer.Topics include:

  • Elements of Composition
  • Visualization
  • Light and Color
  • Filters
  • Black-and-White
  • The Digital Zone System
  • The Zone System for Film
  • Printing and Presentation
  • Exploding Photographic Myths
  • Artistic Integrity
  • Realism, Abstraction, and Art
  • Creativity and Intuition
  • A Personal Philosophy
  • And much, much more…


Editorial Reviews

Review

The Art of Photography is a must-have book for any photographer, whether starting out or veteran. It certainly is a must for photographers who have never shot with film. The book discusses everything there is to know, from technical to art related. …[It] is a book that makes you think. …every serious photographer who isn’t afraid to question his own skills should buy and read this book. ~Erik Vleitnch, IT Enquirer

Barnbaum is successful in bringing the title to reality for the conscientious student: when a person with a camera can express themselves with their work and truly communicate with the viewer, he or she will have discovered The Art of Photography. ~Frank Etier, Technorati Media

There are many ways to improve your photography. Most take years and many are hit-or-miss. If you want to move quickly to the front of the class, you’d do well to spend some time with this newest release from Bruce Barnbaum. Having spent years combing through photo books at the Cleveland Public Library back in the 80’s, I wish this one had been there when I started. …I can’t tell the number of people I know who could have been great photographers, but thought they needed to be something they were not. If you internalize most of this book, you’ll have the best style of all…“someone who just takes really good photos.” ~Doug Bardwell, Examiner.com

An amazing book on the art of photography. It challenges one's personal focus and passion about practicing one's own art - be it photography or in some other medium. ~Patsy R. Richardson, Amazon.com

I would urge every photographer who sees himself or herself as more than a technician but as an artist to devour this book and immerse oneself in what it is trying to communicate and think about it. It really will help you see like you never have before. ~Walter Pike, Amazon.com

The reader, whether a beginning film photographer, a digital photographer, or an advanced photographer who has begun the intense analysis of their work in their attempt to move from technical competence to truly artistic vision, will find something of value in this volume. I found it a seriously interesting read with parts I kept returning to after some thought on the processes discussed. ~Michael N. Roach, DigitalAppleJuice.com

Bruce Barnbaum’s The Art of Photogrpahy is the best book I’ve read in over 40 years of reading about photography. Bruce Barnbaum goes further and deeper into explaining the intangibles that make a great photograph than anyone else ever has. If you want to learn how to create powerful photographs instead of just snapping away and hoping something turns out later in your computer, this is the one book you must read. …It is the best book for people willing to invest the time and effort demanded to create brilliant photographs. ~Ken Rockwell

This book has made me a better artist. Mr. Barnbaum, I will be forever in your debt. This book almost immediately made me a true artist who can now consistently and deliberately create the exact message I want to communicate. ~Andrew M., Amazon.com

If you would like to find a book that will take you into a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of what makes for a great photograph then this book does that and more. ~Lloyd M. Bentsen, Amazon.com

About the Author

Bruce Barnbaum, of Granite Falls, WA, began photography as a hobbyist in the 1960s, and after five decades, it is still his hobby. Photography has also been his life’s work for the past 50 years. Bruce’s educational background includes Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in mathematics from UCLA. After working for several years as a mathematical analyst and computer programmer for missile guidance systems, he abruptly left the field and turned to photography. Bruce is recognized as one of the finest darkroom printers on this planet for his exceptional black-and-white work. He understands light to an extent rarely found and combines this understanding with mastery of composition, applying his knowledge to an extraordinarily wide range of subject matter. Bruce has authored several books that have become classics. The first edition of The Art of Photography: An Approach to Personal Expression was released in 2010 by Rocky Nook. After having sold over 100,000 copies, it is now in its revised second edition. This book became an instant bestseller and is sure to remain a classic for years to come. The Essence of Photography, released in 2015, is now in its second printing. This non-technical book delves deeply into the heart of turning photography from an instrument of recording images to one of making artistic personal statements; progressing from the scene you encountered, to how you feel about the scene you encountered, and then onto how to express that feeling to others. Bruce’s two Tone Poems books are a collaboration of photography and accompanying music. On musical CDs packaged with each book, pianist Judith Cohen―performing solos as well as with other musicians in duets and trios―matches the mood of the imagery found in each book with carefully chosen classical music. Book 1 contains 90 black-and-white images; Book 2 delivers another 91 images. These books, which were magnificently printed in Italy, come in large 12˝x12˝ format. Bruce’s Plateaus and Canyons is an all-color book that displays the wonders of the Colorado Plateau of Northern Arizona and Southern Utah with its varied plateaus, canyons, and unique slit canyons. Bruce has been an active environmental advocate for five decades, both independently and through his involvement and leadership with organizations such as the Sierra Club, the National Audubon Society, the Mountain Loop Conservancy, Futurewise, and the North Cascades Conservation Council.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars A collector’s item

A. · October 3, 2025

I think this book is a gem. Lots of great ideas and a great read.

5.0 out of 5 stars Not Your Average Photography Book

S.C. · November 25, 2020

This is simply a great photography book! It will make you look at your subjects, composition, lighting, and process in a whole new way. It will make you begin to see the whole creative process, from start to finish, before you ever trip the shutter. I really, really liked this book, and I am looking forward to his next release, "The Essence of Photography: Seeing and Creativity" Highly recommended!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing! A must read for ALL photographers.

W.C. · October 4, 2018

An amazing insight into photography and the “whys” of success and failure in capturing meaningful images. Timeless information and inspiration for all photographers regardless of experience. Easily the best (of many) book I have read on photography and it’s artistic interpretation and representation.

4.0 out of 5 stars It probably was great once

M.W. · July 6, 2023

Much of the author’s (authors?) political views are scattered throughout this book. I could have skipped his (their?j political opinion(s?). Other than that it’s a wealth of information. I’m a past film photographer and even I thought there was way too much traditional photography included. I actually skipped entire chapters because of it. I appreciate the thought and it wasn’t a total letdown because of all the other great information. Also much of the digital processing sections were already dated. There’s plenty that’s not so not a total loss. My first review was only 2 stars because of all the political statements but other than that and the dated sections it is worthy of 4 stars upon reflection.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great read

A.N. · June 7, 2025

Did I mention my ex-wife and the photographer? Yeah, this is another book I bought her—probably while she was out doing “photo shoots.” At least one of us was trying to add depth to the relationship.

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Reading

P. · December 21, 2021

I have not read many photography books lately but must say that I found this book to be very helpful in expanding my creativity. I started with black and white film photography 50 years ago and only recently moved to a digital camera. Bruce's book was a walk down memory lane for me and also instructional in digital photography, which I hoped it would be. I'm a little sorry I didn't buy a paper version.

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best books of our time

C.M. · October 16, 2022

This is a wonderful book about photography as art. The technical discussions are more suited for today than the classic Ansel Adams books. I learned from this book things I didn't get from others.

5.0 out of 5 stars Insight, inspiration and motivation!

J.A. · June 24, 2019

Arrived days earlier than expected! The book was not wrapped but flipping through the pages it seems new.At a glance, it looks like it’s going to be interesting read. If you’re looking for a “how to book” then this book is not for you. If you’re looking for a photographer’s work and insight as to the wondrous images he took then buy this book. I’m suffering from photographers block right now and this just maybe the inspiration I need.

Really impressed

P. · May 4, 2023

Well, this book is a aesthetic treatise on the subject.... Really well written and full of beautiful images.Very very happy with it!!!!!!

Art Photography

D. · August 2, 2025

Eccellente, davvero completo!

Fantastic for those who know the basics

J.W. · December 15, 2022

This is a wonderfully well written book, with some excellent photographs that are great learning opportunities. It's not a book for beginners, you should be able to look at the photo and understand the technicalities of how it was made, but it's the compositional decisions that are the most important. I can safely say it has really changed my own work, for the better (I hope!)

The title (full title) could not be more accurate.

M.A.C.Q. · March 20, 2018

Very nice book. I own the first edition in hardcopy, and decided to buy this edition for Kindle. I would not say this is a how-to book, a manual, or a textbook. It is more of an insight of the author's evolution as an artist, and the way he executes his self expression through photography. He shows procedures and techniques by no means claiming they are the best or even good ones, but the ones which have worked for him. Some people may not like the style, as he mixes philosophy with photography. I read reviews which claim he is not straight forward, that he tends to deviate from the subject. However, I believe this is the right approach if you look at photography as a media of self expression rather than as a plain money making business. I really enjoyed and would recommend for what it is.

The art is perfectly portrayed

M. · September 1, 2018

A nice book for beginners. Detailed description of elements of compositions are given. This is the only part, which is not really available in online. Other editing techniques and software related bugs can be found in present day Internet market. However, the art of photography, as it is named, is well documented in the book.

Similar suggestions by Bolo

More from this brand

Similar items from “Reference”