All the books reviewed here are available at local bookstores, click on the name of the stores for their locations.
Canon EOS 40D Guide to Digital Photography

Author: David D. Busch
Publisher: Thomson Course Technology

The most common question asked about a book like this is "What's the difference between this and the manual?" The most outstanding difference is this- While a manual is packed with detailed technical knowledge that helps you help yourself, this guide is like having a photo-whiz friend read the manual for you and explain it to you in a simple, almost conversational manner. The author walks you through basic processes like setting up your camera and manipulating exposure to advanced shooting options, flash handling, and downloading/editing- all the while illustrating his points with photos and screenshots. He even covers the question of whether a camera upgrade is really necessary and what new features are offered in the Canon EOS 40D. His knowledge is presented from the brilliantly accessible angle of applied photography, which makes this 300+ pager a surprising breeze to read. Match this with loads of practice and you'll be harnessing the full power of your Canon EOS 40D in no time!

Available at: Riceball Photography Bookstore

Canon EOS 400D/Digital Rebel XTi Digital Field Guide
Canon EOS 350D/Digital Rebel XT Digital Field Guide
Canon EOS 30D Digital Field Guide

Author: Charlotte K. Lowrie
Publisher: Wiley Publishing

Just a peek into these pages will tell you why Wiley Publishing's Digital Field Guides are met with such enthusiasm- Contents are divided clearly into 3 self-explanatory sections: Using the camera, creating great photos with the camera, and appendixes (where it discusses custom functions, internet resources, and offers a glossary). The guide is written in a clear, simple manner and packed with photos & illustrations. The first portion takes you through the specific Canon DSLR's functions and capabilities and the second delves into the science of lenses, understanding lighting, composition techniques, and some photo editing basics. "In a nutshell" chapter guides at the opening of each chapter make the books flip-friendly and easy to follow.

Available at: Riceball Photography Bookstore

Canon Speedlite System Digital Field Guide

Author: J. Dennis Thomas
Publisher: Wiley Publishing

Like Wiley's Digital Field Guides for cameras, this guide for the Canon Speedlite System is simply written and well illustrated, and geared towards helping you harness the creativity, control, and convenience of your 580EX or 430EX Speedlite. Besides walking you through the basic, advanced, and custom handling, it also offers a section on creating a wireless studio with your Speedlite and using it in 'real-world applications'. This quick read will definitely help you get into the light.

Available at: Riceball Photography Bookstore

Thames & Hudson PHOTOFILE series

Publisher: Thames & Hudson

Thames & Hudson continue their dedication to gorgeous art books with the PHOTOFILE series-a collection of pocket-sized photo books spotlighting the world's best photographers. Each volume features some 60 full-page duotone reproductions of the photographer's best work, presented with a critical introduction, a biography, and a chronology. With legendary names like Henri Cartier-Bresson, Eliott Erwitt, and Helmut Newton just at the tip of the iceberg, this series is a definite must-have for every photo-lover. Each thought-provoking volume is a single generous serving of quick insight and inspiration. The pleasantly affordable price tag makes them delectably collectible.

Available at: Riceball Photography Bookstore

The Photographer's Eye

Author: Michael Freeman
Publisher: ILEX

Having a good eye is one thing, but putting it into words can be an experience similar to pulling clouds from the sky. Not so for Michael Freeman- this book is as successful as it is ambitious. It teaches not just logical, systematic design and composition skills (all of which are very important), but also reaches into intangible corners to instill conceptual thought. Freeman provides the key to understanding and manipulating elements like perception, balance, tension, rhythm, colour, and intent with refreshing insight and an impressive amount of seasoned knowledge. He even addresses the "digital post-production vs. purity of the moment" dilemma. The six chapters are each divided into small, digestible sections illustrated with photos you'd wish you shot. The Photographer's Eye is beautiful enough to be a coffee table book and brainy enough to be a handbook. If creativity can really be taught, this must be how it's done.

Available at: Riceball Photography Bookstore

Professional Portrait Lighting
- Techniques & images from master photographers

Author: Michelle Perkins
Publisher: Amherst Media

If you're out to master the art of portrait lighting, you'll want this on your bookshelf. This book offers just what it promises- Techniques and images from master photographers- and even more. You'll get an inside look at the working practices of 11 industry leaders, with styles ranging from high fashion, celebrity headshots, and glamour, to wedding, family, and yearbook portraits. The lighting techniques covered will reveal industry tricks on creating a concept that suits clients, weaving fantasies (like old-school Hollywood glamour), and portraying mood and personality. There's even some priceless wisdom on work ethics and communicating with clients. Don't be put off by the outdated styling in some of the photos- behind the out-of-style clothes lie lighting techniques that are timeless and indispensable. There are even diagrams to make the configurations simpler to understand and emulate.

Available at: Riceball Photography Bookstore

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Not All Papers Are Equal
Inkjet photo papers come in various sizes and types, and a good understanding of the paper types will enable you to use the paper texture to enhance the mood of your image. First of all, you must understand what makes inkjet photo paper different from a normal photocopier paper.

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Photo Murals for Your Ceiling!
Cover that water damage with a colorful mural, or slap a collage of fluffy clouds over those grimy ceiling tiles. All you need to make it happen are some photo Post-its and a stepstool.

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Check out the Canon Creative Park to amaze you! Download and print your very own paper origami and 3D paper craft!

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With the legendary Canon EOS system as a foundation, the EOS Academy offers day-long photography workshops designed to introduce budding photographers to the joy of Digital SLR (DSLR) photography.

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The workshop will also cover tips and techniques to improve your video skills, based on a carefully constructed syllabus that's accessible, hands-on, and fun! It is tailored to the needs of beginners, with a goal to motivate and inspire.

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Canon Man-U Trophy Photo Shoot
Hundreds of Man-U fans had the chance of their life to be photographed with the Man-U trophy made its way to Singapore on 9th of June. As part of the Trophy Tour 2008, fans were allowed to pose with the prized trophy and photographed with Canon Digital IXUS cameras, and to have their memories printe...

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Canon EOS 40D Guide to Digital Photography
Author:David D. Busch
Publisher: Thomson Course Technology
The most common question asked about a book like this is "What's the difference between this and the manual?" The most outstanding difference is this- While a manual is packed with detailed technical knowledge that helps you help yourself, this guide is like having a photo-whiz friend read the manua...

Learn more >