Within the Frame [BOOK REVIEW]
In the world of photography, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the externals. The cameras. The gear. The prints. The travel. The business. The opportunity. It’s easy to loose perspective when there are always new things to buy, new abilities to develop, and new connections to make.
No matter where you are in your photographic career or ability, sometimes you need fresh perspective to renew your passion and ignite your…vision.
Fortunately, David duChemin brings us a book to do just this.
Within the Frame is not a technique book, nor is it a manual of “how to’s. It is, in the words of duChemin, a book about ” chasing your vision and telling your stories as clearly and passionately as possible with compelling photography.” Of course, in the end, photography is less about the technique than it is about vision. After all, it is passionate vision that will make way for dynamic storytelling.
Still yet, duChemin does not discard the importance of “how to”. But rather than give a systematic list of do’s and don’ts, duChemin challenges photographers everywhere to become analytical about how they “think” about their photography. Do you shoot what moves you? Do you make your audience care? How do you create images that are power – and yet matter?
DuChemin also gives an overview of gear for purpose. He answers the question of “what lens do I use?” for a variety of scenario’s, for the best storytelling possible. He describes helpful systematic approaches for shooting unfamiliar places – be they India or Chicago – in order to catch that “perfect shot”.
Engaging and thought provoking, “Within the Frame” is full of beautiful images from around the world complete with their EXIF data, and the stories behind them. Visually pleasing, mentally uplifting, it is evident duChemin sought after the release of a new kind of book for photographers – one that he would have wanted someone to share with him. Like a mentor you can throw in your backpack, “Within the Frame” will gently guide any photographer back to the center of what it’s all about.
For that, it’s worth the $35. And more!
Grab a copy for yourself at Amazon where at the time of publishing this review it is $26.39 USD (34% off normal retail price).


9 Responses to “Within the Frame [BOOK REVIEW]” - Add Yours
August 12th, 2009 at 6:57 am
I’m so glad to see this review! I just picked this book up this weekend and was hooked in the first few pages. I can’t wait to finish the read, but a few chapters in and I’m already inspired. du Chemin’s passion is evident – and contagious.
August 12th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
I have heard about this book. After reading your short review, I am interested in purchasing a copy. We all need fresh perspective in life.
August 12th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
It’s a great book. I finished it a few weeks ago. Great tips for photographers and I love the focal length, aperture and shutter speed that goes with each image.
August 12th, 2009 at 5:59 pm
I already bought this book and although I have not finished reading, it’s a very motivating book with to the point and interesting content! Instead of bying another book about techniques, every photographer should definitely buy Within The Frame.
August 12th, 2009 at 9:44 pm
I’ve read a good bit about this book and plan to check it out the next time I’m at the book store. There’s a flickr group where you can submit photos to the author for critique which I think is pretty cool.
BTW, first paragraph “loose” should be “lose” (sorry, pet peeve of mine).
August 12th, 2009 at 11:32 pm
Purchased this book recently and finished it over the weekend – truly inspiring stuff. I mainly shoot architectural and landscape photography but Davids advice on including elements specifically from the locality have really made me think. An excellent book that I’d highly recommend for anyone with an interest in photography.
August 13th, 2009 at 1:44 am
Just finished this book and loved the approach he took. Focuses more on the artistic aspects than the technical.
August 13th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
This is one book that I will certainly refer to often to for inspiration and motivation. David presents photography as a passion and personal journey. A book well written.
August 24th, 2009 at 4:21 am
This book is awesome and recommend this to anyone, amateurs and professionals alike. This book is well written and focuses on finding your creative voice. I’m just starting out and have read other photography books and this one is definitely refreshing and offers a different view on photography. As photographers, it is important to know about lenses, settings, and post production but it is also important to find your creative voice – which David helps you establish in this book. Good read!
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