This Windows-only book gently eases beginning digital photographers into the rapidly evolving and exciting world of digital photography, without overwhelming them with technical detail. It also provides support to both amateur and proficient film photographers who are transitioning from their previous comfort zone of traditional shooting to new territory with unfamiliar vocabulary, methods, and hardware. Who could possibly be more welcoming to these beginners than David Pogue, who wrote the enticing introduction to this Missing Manual? In his typically refreshing blend of easy-to-understand language, touch of humor, and genuine enthusiasm, Pogue magically engages the reader and assures subsequent absorption of the book from cover-to-cover. In the Introduction, David Pogue explains that the book is comprised of four parts, each containing several chapters. The First Section, Digital Camera Basics, assists in the decision of what type of digital camera best suits which needs, and then how to learn to use the features of that choice. The differences between digital and film photography are reviewed, and easily implemented tips for taking great photos in different kinds of situations and environments are provided. The Second Section, Organizing Your Photos, focuses on different options for storing, organizing and retrieving photos on the computer and on the Internet. Section Three looks at Editing Your Photos using the computer and software programs (as opposed to previously using a darkroom and sending jobs out to a photo lab). Basics of removing red eye, blemishes, cropping, and more advanced topics like creating panoramas from multiple photos are reviewed. Finally, Section Four explores sharing digital photos, printing photos at home, ordering prints through online services, and ordering specialty items such as photo books, calendars, and other photo items. While this book is intended for Windows users, much of the content is enriching for any beginning digital photographer, regardless of platform. This is especially true of digital camera features, lighting and flash options, explanations of resolution for printing, memory card varieties, and editing considerations. The beginner is also advised to learn to take risks in trying different creative techniques and options, since it is easy to just erase mistakes. Tips are given for shooting vacation photos, weddings and celebrations, sunset and night photos, indoor flash photography, sports and action shots, and special effects. The techniques of rotating, resizing, and other editing and enhancing are introduced to the beginner for a taste of the next level in photo manipulation. Digital Photography: The Missing Manual has many detailed and colorful illustrations, as well as an excellent index (typical of this series). The authors do an excellent job of organizing the basic essential information for a beginner to get started in digital photography. The content of this book will surely serve as a firm foundation for the beginner to develop confidence to acquire effective digital photography skills. (Mac users, please note that iPhoto 6: The Missing Manual contains information on Digital Photography — see review by Maria Arguello, June 2006 www.mlmug.org/iP6MM.html.)

Reviewer: Rochelle Goldman Rochelle is a Pa Licensed Psychologist in private practice in Bala Cynwyd, and is also a PA Certified School Psychologist. She is the author of a children's poetry book, an avid grower of orchids, devotee of classical ballet, advocate for international adoption, and is a NASA enthusiast. She is often glued to her Mac and especially enjoys her developing skills in digital photography and digital video. She is the parent of two adult children — Kevin, who designs advanced Flash websites and sings opera, and Marla, an accomplished ballet dancer and teacher.

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