Learning to See Creatively: Design, Color & Composition in Photography (Updated Edition)

• #33 in Best Photography Books

122 Reviews

Sort by: Most Helpful ▲ Date Rating

Learning to be a photographer is about more than focusing and exposure. One of the most important and difficult things is learning what to take a picture of, and then designing an image that expresses something about its subject. Many authors of photography books talk about teaching the photographer to see. I think of that as being the process of selecting a subject and then deciding how it should look to capture the photographer's vision of it. Bryan Patterson promises to teach that in the revised edition of "Learning to See Creatively". Unfortunately, he doesn't keep his promise.

It's not that this is a poor book. The author talks about the elements of photographic design like line, shape, form, texture, pattern and color. Unfortunately he doesn't link these elements to the photographer's vision. It's as if one knew nothing about tools, had a plumbing problem, and was presented with a wrench. It would be nice to be told how to use the wrench to solve the problem. If you know how to relate the tools to the problem, you don't need this book.


He also talks about composition and guidelines like the rule of thirds, or frame within a frame. But even here, he doesn't make the connection to vision. Even the chapter called "Expanding Your Vision" turns out to be a discussion of the characteristics of lenses of different focal lengths.

There are chapters on digital photography and photographic careers but they look like they were added on to the work because somebody thought that was what would help the book sell.

Peterson's photographs are good. When he explains why he made the design and composition choices for a particular picture you can see some relationship of technique to vision. It's also interesting to occasionally see a comparison of the same subject handled two different ways. But unfortunately the author doesn't take the opportunity to relate similar pictures to photographic vision.

This might be a good enough book for the intermediate photographer who isn't really ready to work on his or her vision, although I much prefer Brenda Tharp's "Creative Nature & Outdoor Photography" which covers the same ground in a more concise way.

One might think that you can't teach someone to see creatively. That may be true, but Freeman Patterson's old standby, "Photography & the art of seeing" comes a lot closer than this volume. And books like those by Galen Rowell or Tony Sweet do a much better job of relating technique to the visions of their authors.

I've read all three of Bryan Peterson's books -- "Understanding Exposure," "Learning to See Creatively," and "Photographing People -- and "Understanding Exposure" I recommend highly (5 stars). The other two drained me of my passion as I read them, which is the opposite of what Peterson intended, I'm sure. Here's why: Bryan Peterson's images look like what they are -- commercial images sold to stock houses, used to advertise products or services or businesses in one way or another. Little girls in fields of flowers. Sunsets over the beach. Two businesspeople shaking hands. Peterson does what he does well, and I gave this book 2 stars because I'm sure there are readers who are looking to take their interest in photography down this very road. For anyone who wants to develop his or her "voice," who wants to communicate with his or her images, I think this book will disappoint. I was a student in a writing program for a period of time, and one of the best tips I learned and passed on to other students was this: Before you sign up for a class with a particular professor, read at least one of his novels or several of his short stories. If you like the way he writes, sign up for the class. If you can't stand his writing, find someone else. I think the same applies here. I recognize that Peterson knows how to use a camera -- and his effective instruction of exposure in his other book proves that -- but his images make no impression on me, don't cause me to think or feel or question anything. I recommend finding the books in a bookstore or trying to look through them online before you buy -- his Web site, http://www.bryanfpeterson.com, shows some examples. If you want to take pictures like these, this book will meet your needs. Otherwise, pass it by.

This is an interesting little book. It is geared towards the novice photographer, but others with more experience may be inspired by it too. It can easily be read in one sitting. The author shuns sophisticated camera lingo or fancy techniques and concentrates on the fundamentals of composing a memorable photograph. The book is profusely illustrated and most photographs are presented twice, one framed in the conventual manner and the second with a subtle, but dramatic improvement. The author powerfully demonstrates that minor changes can have profound effects on the success of the picture. Raising or lowering the camera angle, using aperture to control depth of field, choosing the proper focal length, emphasizing lines, texture or shapes as well as other simple techniques are all briefly discussed. The prose is concise; for the most part the author lets the photography do the talking. While these are all basic techniques and the author does not cover any unique ground, the information is well presented. Most successful photographs fail because of simple mistakes. The author almost exclusively confines his focus to landscape photography or inanimate objects. The reader looking for insight into photographing people or nature will be better served by other references. The reader looking for the basics of using a camera, or the reader looking for intermediate or advanced technique will also be disappointed. However, if, like so many of us, you are in need of simple techniques to improve your photographs, this is a useful resource. The novice will certainly benefit from reading this and even the experienced photographer may find an idea or two.

Bryan Peterson's book has many beautiful images with most showing before and after shots. The before shot is usually taken with one lens and the improved after shot is taken with another lens. Unfortunately, many of these after shots are taken with expensive extreme lens from ultra-wide angles (20 mm) to super telephotos (300 mm+), to macros and extension tubes. In other words, lenses I don't have and can't afford. There are better books out there that really do tell you how to see creatively, regardless of the equipment you have, that will be much more beneficial in improving your compositions and seeing differently. Some by Freeman Patterson come immediately to mind. Unless, of course, you do have the gear. If so, then go for it.

Of the many books that purport to add compositional and other creative skills to your arsenal of photographic tools, this is the only one I have read that really delivers. Perhaps the most useful aspect of this book is that it shows how, by making one or two changes (camera angle, lens selection, time of day, etc.) the author took what would been a snapshot to a magazine cover or poster quality photo. In most cases, there are "before and after" photos for comparison, and there is always a complete but concise (and very understandable) explanation of the techniques he employed. Whether you are a beginner, or you have been doing serious amateur and professional photography for nearly forty years (as I have), I'd bet you can learn something from this book. Of three bookcases full of books on photography, this is one of the few that I consider indispensible. Highly recommended.

This is the most useful photography book I have read in a long time, and I have read a lot (and taken a few pictures along the way). True this is not a general book and does not cover the basics in film, aperture and shutter speed which of course are important (after all this author has written a book on these aspects), but lets face it there are plenty of these general books around already. What this book addresses in spades is what is often lacking in some others; composition.

If you are a beginner then this is a must read book. If you are more advanced and generally happy with your images then read this book anyway and look again. Were any of you images `ho-hum, so-so'? Need to move on to the next level?

This is the best book on composition I have read. I believe this book has helped me and can help you improve your images no matter what level you are at. Yes, even if you are a point and shoot photographer. For me this one is a keeper. Enjoy. ASC.

After reading Bryan's book Exposure, I couldn't wait to read this one and he didn't disappoint. This is an excellent book for beginners (and a refresher for more advanced).

I really like the presentation of the "average" picture along side his view of how the picture should have been shot. His clear text with specific insights was excellent. The exercises were useful in conveying his points.

For the beginner, I would purchase Exposure along with this book. For the intermediate, I believe it is still worth the price. Of all the photographic books I have read (most written for a more seasoned photographer), his simple approach was refreshing and helpful. I believe that my recent work has improved due to his suggestions. Thanks Bryan...keep writing!

As an intermediate amateur photographer, I compared this book with "Photographic Composition" by Tom Grill and Mark Scanlon, and "Photography and the Art of Seeing" by Freeman Patterson. I liked this book the best of the three. The biggest advantage over the other two books was Peterson's pairing of "bad" and "good" photos of the same subject. For example, just changing time of day (pp.130-137) can make a big difference in the quality of light in a photo. (I disagree with the November 12, 1999, review here; many shots were improved by methods other than "another lens." I also disagree with the November 23, 2000, review, in that Peterson tells you exactly what is wrong with the "bad" photos.) Although almost all the example photos are saturated and contrasty, a few have a limited "pastel" color palette (e.g., pp. 59 & 107) for those who prefer such a style. Hey, buy all three books at Amazon.com!

Maybe I should attribute some blame to myself first for assuming that this book would deliver some "creative" ideas and criticism for composing photographs. Although an amateur photographer (advanced with a focus on landscape) I feel that I already have a strong grasp of basic photographic composition concepts.

In purchasing this book I was looking for the type of compositional analysis that critiques "good" photos with a view to making them "great" photos. In this book the author certainly does not stimulate anything (for me at least) beyond moving from taking "snap-shots" to taking a basic composed "photograph".

A useful introductory book but certainly not what I could term useful for the advanced; amateur or professional.

I have to admit, this is the first photography book that I've actually read from cover to cover. Each chapter contains valuable information that teaches the reader to shift their perspetive and see the world differently.

As a student photographer I constantly struggle with the mistaken assumption that I have to have something of value to photograph or that every picture I take has to be of something momentous. Not so. With this book I learned that I can look at a field of flowers along the side of the road and by simply "flopping down on my belly" see the world from an different perspective. This is what the author teaches. How to shift your view of the world around you and find true inspiration in the common and ordinary.

The author teaches when to use a telephoto and when to use a wide angle lens and also talks about the usefulness of the much maligned 50mm lens. The reader also learns how to incorporate color into photographs, how to interpert and accomodate line, form and texture.

The sample photographs are in full color and provide the reader with examples that illustrate the lessons beautifully.

One word of caution, if you're looking for a book that discusses the more technical aspects of photography such as apeture, shutter speed or depth of field charts, this is not the book for you. This books assumes you have a basic working knowledge of photography and is written to take you to the next level beyond the fundamentals of photography.

I highly recommend this book. It has helped me tremendously. Now I look for reasons to go out and shoot and no longer bemoan the lack of subject matter. The world has opened up and my photographs have definitely improved.

I bought this book expecting to see rules of composition.Apart from one reference to the rule of thirds, I did not find anything. But I did find something else - "The art of looking at the picture through the viewfinder". As I had gotten into using more complex, advanced equipment, I had started looking at the picture instead of seeing. This book will make you think before you take your photographs. Most of the photographs in the book made me marvel at the guy's composition skills..even envy. But now when I take my pictures, some of the pictures from the book come to my mind, and I re-evaluate my composition. If this happens to you...youre well on your way to taking great pictures. The section on exposure is nice. The book is worth every cent you pay for it.

I should know, as it did for me.

If you're prepared to put the time in and study study study
these pictures, then go out and shoot shoot shoot literally
thousands of photographs (I shot 5,000+ in my first year),
then accurately anaylze what you are doing right, you WILL
improve.

If you think one quick read is all you need then you're
deluding yourself. Instant mastery is a joke and you'd
be foolish to look for quick fixes.

But for a SOLID grounding in what works and what doesn't,
you can't beat this book.

You may also want to investigate "The Art of Black and
White Photography " by John Garrett.

But most of all, shoot away.

I purchased this book, only to realize that all the writer can do is teach you his style. It does show you the difference between snap shots and decent photographs. The key lesson in the book is to look for an unusual angle. Differentiate your pictures from snapshots.

A Photography student would be better off, looking at every picture you see, and try to learn from it. Experiment, and join your local Photography club. You will learn a lot more at the club than any book can teach you -- assuming you already understand the Basics. To Learn the Basics get the National Geographic Field Guide.

Look at this book in the library. 5 minutes is all you need with it.

a cousin recommended this book to me a long time ago so i went and bought it. hands down, this book helped me improve my shooting DRASTICALLY. it teaches you to answer the questions "what is it about this scene that i want to express?" and "how can i convey that feeling/idea in a photo?". these may sound like simple questions but you really have to step away from the normal way of seeing things in order to take great photos.

the principles in this book apply not only to photography, but to any art form where an understanding of visual principles applies: graphic design, painting, drawing, etc. this book is a great primer on visual literacy.

peterson helps you to compose a photo based on its intended effect by providing a pair of photos for each idea that he is trying to explain: one of the photos is taken without giving much thought (a snapshot, if you will) and the other is taken after peterson addressed the questions above (what do i want to express? how can i translate that to a photo?). he uses the "pair method" to illustrate topics like form, shape, color, perspective, and a variety of others.

i just couldn't put this book down. and i'm not kidding when i say it improved my photography drastically. do yourself a favor and buy this book.

I have read a few books on compositions. What makes this one standout is the way Bryan illustrates his technique. In each chapter, he first defines each concept clearly, then he uses pictures and the related comments to demonstrate the point. Combining all the chapters, it is a complete approach to composition. He always includes a "big picture" shot to go with the sample picture to demonstrate the different the technique makes. By doing so, it also demonstrates how to use photography telling a story.
The focus is on building and fixed subject. The tonal contrast bit could be better. Also no mentioning of layering (maybe by design). These are very minor gipes.
The book is very easy to read and understand. It has a lot of beautiful pictures of Oregon. Hey, he has made power lines looking good (in picture anyway)! Highly recommended for beginner and intermediate photographer.

In one sense, this book is doomed to fail at its goal before you read a single page. It simply isn't possible to give someone information that allows them to always see the best composition for a photo no matter where they are or what the subject is. There are so many unique situations in photography and so many variables that come into play that it is impossible to cover them all with rules or guidelines that would turn a poor photographer into a great one.

At the same time, it is possible to discuss the basic components of photographic design in a way that stimulates the reader to ponder new possibilities when shooting. This is what Bryan Peterson does in this book and he does it well. He covers line, shape, form, texture, pattern, and color individually and shows photos that highlight the use of each one. He then moves on to a more general discussion about composition as well as the various sources and qualities of light. Throughout all of these chapters, the photos that illustrate his points are uniformly excellent.

Overall, Mr. Peterson has done a good job covering a very difficult topic. For a beginning photographer, it would be especially useful as a tool to help see scenes in a new way.

This book is a most effective tool in learning to see for two reasons. The photos used for each principle contrast a less well created example with an excellent example of the principle being presented. To that is added short and to the point text to assist the observer in grasping the concept. I would highly recommend the book to artists in general as well as photographers.

If you're new to photography and want to be serious about it, this and Bryan Peterson's other book, Understanding Exposure are must read. While Understanding Exposure teaches you technical side of photography, this book helps you training yourself to see the world as a photographer. After reading this book, I've learned that there're so many photographic chances around me that I totally missed out. This book will open your eyes.

After thoroughly enjoyed all of Mr. John Shaw's books, I was very moved by Mr. Peterson's Learning to See Creatively. I did not expect to have another teacher who would be so thorough, open, and wise. Not only has Mr. Peterson guided me to his doorstep and invited me to see what he had seen, he also hintly pointed his fingers at things that I might to want to see and enjoy for myself. If Mr. Shaw was a teacher with a lecture-and-assignment style, Mr. Peterson would be a teacher who was more likely to stand beside his student and share a moment of learning together.

This is a book which has inspired me to learn more about line, shape, color, composition, light, etc. In other words, it has truely expanded my vision. And expanded vision helps not only in the pictures I am taking, but also my appreciation of things and people around me.

I highly recommend this book -- not as a definitive guide to seeing, but as a starting point for our own journey to seeing and understanding.

Nice photo examples, although neither really inspiring nor stunning.
Technical details are superficial and sketchy.
Not worth keeping it as a reference book.

Bryan does an amazing job of not just showing you great pictures, but also how he achieved them (Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO) Bryan's photos are fantastic and he has a great writing style. A must for all photographers that are looking to take the pictures to the next level.

Thank you, Bryan, for yet another gem of a book--Learning to see Creatively is so helpful, and it's not simply about photographic composition. Bryan teaches about the relationship of color to the feeling of a scene, how form and shape can be looked at in other ways to come up with more creative photos, etc, etc. The book is packed with helpful tips, ideas, exercises and of course, Bryan's lovely photos as examples.

I would not say that this book will teach you composition in photography. All through the book, there are a lot of tips and tricks, and examples of how to use them, but there is not information about why things are one way or another.
If you already has some knowledge about composition and want to see a lot of good examples, and some tips especific to photography, this is your book. If you want to learn about composition in a more theoretic way, in order to build your own "view", you should start with another book.

This book is extremely well written and easy to comprehend. Peterson has, through excellent photographic examples, shown the reader how to look at their subjects with an entirely different perspective. He shows his techniques through pictures of the same subject taken with a "different point of view", and points out what is right and what could be improved upon, and how.

I would highly recomend this publication to anyone who is serious about improving the quality and content of their pictures.

I've been shooting for a few years now and felt I needed something to take me to the next step. While this isn't a 100% solution to that problem it definitely is a huge step in the right direction. This book has opened my thinking to different ways of composing, and in general really helped me to see the bigger picture while shooting. All of the 100+ photos in the book give the details of the exposure which is a huge help in and of itself.

Highly recommended for the avid hobbyist to semi pro and even down to the mom or regular guy/girl who just want to take better pictures.

and does help to change the way we see. The excercises suggested are awesome to do. The photographs offered impressive. Best suggestion: Do the excersises. (We do learn by doing). I read and did and my vision was expanded. (Never had I considered taking a photograph for texture!) Of the photography books I have thus far this is one of the best.

I always struggle with photography as my mind visualizes a photo I would like to take but my limited knowledge of the physics of light does not allow me to accomplish what I want to do. For the longest time I did what I am sure many others did, they took lots of pictures by trial and error. Even when I had success I was never sure why. I definitely could not recreate that success or explain to someone why it happened the way it did. Finally this year I decided to do something about it and try to learn what makes a good photograph. I have purchased several books on lighting and exposure and I am getting a better grasp on how they interact. But the technical side was only part of the equation I also wanted to open up my creative side. Learning to See Creatively: Design, Color & Composition in Photography by Bryan Peterson is helping me to delve into this more seriously. His writing style and examples have helped me to think more as an artist and less as someone who merely points and shoots. What I have noticed is that after reading this book I look at things differently and I appreciate the beauty around me more than I did when I was focused strictly on the science of taking pictures. Finally I am starting to understand what my style is and I can develop that creatively. If you find yourself wanting to go a different direction with your photos and not sure what the first step should be, I suggest picking up this book and hopefully you too will begin to see interesting and beautiful subjects for your photos that give depth and dimension to your pictures.

I was looking for a book to expand my photographic vision and this book has done the trick. I find myself looking for photographs in a different way after reading this book.

It is an easy quick read. There are lot's of examples and in most cases the example photographs reinforce the topic being covered. The topics are presented in "bite size" chunks and are easy to understand.

The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because I felt there could be more exercises in the book. Some topics have things to try with your camera but I felt that there should be more of this type instruction.

If you are an advanced photographer, this book may not be detailed enough for you. However if you are an beginner or intermediate and are looking to improve your photos, this book probabaly will help you. It has helped me.

I own the previous edition of this book, so I waited with anxious expectation for its revision. This is more than a revision, it's a brand new book, a necessary addition to the theory and practice of implementing creative vision in making photographs. I recommend this book to all who wish to receive inspiration and mentoring in realizing their own creative vision in photography and even general artistic picture making. The text is written in Bryan Peterson's inimitable down to earth, friendly yet knowledgeable style. The photographs are truly inspirational. This book is a keeper!

A very nice follow on to his book "Understanding Exposure." Beautiful photos that include how he shot them, and the thought process behind each shot. Well written and easily understood.

I've enjoyed all 4 of his books that I've read. This is geared toward amateurs and has some great ideas on how and why to take photographs that I learned alot from. Written in the author's usual easy to understand style interspersed with humor. Well worth it.

A Great book ! I'm travelling a lot. Always, I take my Leica M6 with me. I founded this book great ! Many different photographic areas are discussed (from landscapes to people, etc...) Full of very comprehensive pictures, it really shows you how to get, simply better pictures ! Lots of great examples showing how you can archive a lot more of your current work, just by simple things : kneeling down, "looking to the things just in a different way".... Superb and very useful !

(PS : sorry, for my bad english, it's not my motherlanguage !)

This book delivers on its promise to teach you how to see the world in ways that will lead to better photos. The examples (photographs and commentary) are inspiring and the author provides enough details about technique so you know how he took the picture but you're not overwhelmed. It is an enjoyable read and I like to go back and look at the examples again and again. I only wish the book were longer, I was sorry when I finished it.

Having bought myself an slr camera the challenge was now to skill myself in its use. Learning to see creatively was an excellent choice in that concepts are discussed in relatively easy to manage packages and language and style that is both ejoyable and light. Peterson obviously values pictures that are able to stir emotion, and if this is what you are trying to create in your pictures, the book will help to take you a step further on this path. On the down side, the book does leave one looking for more depth of discussion at times. Definitely a useful book for the novice photographer.

Creativity cannot be taught! Maybe, maybe not, but that is a different discussion. What Bryan does in this book is to show the different ways in which artists have been defining creativity and suggests some tips and exercises to recognize these while looking through the viewfinder. This book holds your hand and leads you to a garden, and then leaves you to explore and find out your own definitions for creativity. I would say that this book is a must-have for anyone interested in photography, as a hobby or to be pursued professionally, as a book that could be referred to any time. Just two more words from me "BUT IT"!!!!

I loved this book, especially when Peterson had photo examples for both well-composed shots, and the shots that I would take. Also his discussion on exposure for each photo really helped. I can't wait to buy his book on understanding exposure next.

I really enjoyed this book. I learned new ways to look at things and how to photograph them. This book really made me realize that there is a way to look at the world around you and how to photograph it better. I would deffinetely suggest this book to others.

I found the information in the book worth money I paid. I love photography but something was missing in getting appealing result with my photos. This book fills some holes in my amateur knowledge and also opened my mind to different thinking and approach. Good examples of right and wrong, nice recommendations. Specialy I live author's good sense to explain observation techniques with everyday and real life situations.
I'm still not done, searching for another book.

Great ideas and an easy way to take your game to new level. A book you can come back to and back to over again. Something to keep close by for review. Peterson is a wonderful writer taking complex ideas and breaking in down to easy bites.

This my second book from Bryan Peterson and I am very happy I bought it. His writing is concise and instructional with a lot of practical advice for learning to see creatively, design, color, and composition. It is obvious that the writer is an old pro and a fountain of knowledge for mid to advanced photographers.

If you're new to photography or maybe just wanting to broaden your horizons this is a great starting point. The book is well written and easily understood. It made me look at things differently. I highly recommend this book.

This book was almost a complete waste of money. I did learn few composition techniques, but these techniques were in another book that I purchased at the same time as this one.

This is the second book I have purchased that is written by Bryan Peterson.
He has a way of explaining why he took the pictures and used the lenses he used, so you will understand from his point of view! Will buy other books he has written.

The book comes in Full color. It also provides a lot of good sample photos. I also bought with "Understanding Exposure" the same author.

I got a lot out of this book. Some of the instructions may seem basic, such as changing your perspective or trying a different lens, but the photos really showed why something works better than something else. My goal as a photographer is to move from being an intermediate amateur to an advanced amateur. This book is helping me.

I LOVE this book. I have a great camera but have been using it like a point and shoot. I love photography and have wanted to take a class, but haven't had the time. For me, this book has been like having a teacher on my own time. There are assignments to practice the tools given. Already my photography is getting better and people are commenting that they like my photos.

Exactly what you expect from him, but of course nothing compares with his "Understanding Exposure" book. This guy gives you ALL the technical information.

This book is a wonderful with full color examples to exactly show you the difference in perspective and composition and different photographs. It definitely shows you the difference and how you can find something creative, unique and interesting just by changing your point of view. If you're looking to expand your photography skills from snapshots to more creative pieces, this is a good book for you.

Bryan Peterson really talks about some great concepts and ideas regarding composition and creativity. Highly recommend this book.

Clear, useful and full of exciting information. A valid help to improve the comprehension of photografic composition. Impressive images illustrate the concepts.

When I heard that this book was going to be revised, I waited for it in anxious anticipation - it was well worth the wait!

Sometimes all that is needed to improve a composition is to change one's perspective, which is often pointed out in this book. This is something I'm learning to take advantage of, and can see the improvement in my pictures.

I was also happy to see a section added dealing with color and one on digital imaging.

If you've got a basic understanding of photography behind you, then I'd highly recommend this book!

This review is based on the revised version published in Oct 2003.

Excellent pictures contained within and the author teaches you ways to see every day life through a new creative perspective.

Following the instructions, you will soon find yourself also shooting on your belly or lying on your back for a whole new viewpoint. Many of us unfortunately only shoot from eye level or at a posture thats convenient and that itself limits creatively.

This is one of the better reads I have come across. Worth every penny. Thank you Bryan, I have learned.

Many (probably the vast majority from my experience) of books on photographic composition never go beyond "the rule of thirds" or "watch for S-curves". Although this book, by necessity, repeats much of the information we've all heard many times before, if other ways to goes to the next level by applying some old "rules" in unique ways or by breaking the "rules" in ways that add impact. The pictures are very good and by themselves would make the book worthwhile. I sometimes struggle for subjects in my immediate area, but this book encourages me to look at relatively common sights in a new way. Clears out photographers block, in a matter of speaking.

Sure you can learn calculus from a text book, or how to program in C++, but creativity is one thing that I realized cannot be learned...

I would recommend the book since it costs next to nothing, if just to admire the photos inside. I don't expect myself (nor you) to have an overnight transformation into a super-amazing-do-it-all-pro-photographer-with-award-winning-shots, but at least you'll see how it's supposed to be done and maybe in a couple of years your creativity can be developed -- THROUGH PRACTICE.

Practice is the one and only way you'll find this book useful!

This book has some awesome exercises for even the best photographrs to participate. Seeing creatively is something I don't have a problem with, but this book will open your eyes to so many different avenues as a photographer. I am extremely pleased with this purchase.

Excellent!! I've been on a long wasting on internet forum and reading such a poor books available on market that's not from great teacher.

Bryan is such a great teacher!
Learning from him just a plain path to enlighten in photography.

Buy this book and you will not regret.

Think there's nothing to take photos of around the neighborhood? Think again...

Tired of going places and taking pictures of your trip only to be disappointed to find obstructions detracting from what you thought was a fantastic shot? This book is the solution!

This is one book I couldn't wait to start reading again, even before I finished it.

Never again will I shy away from cloudy days or taking a second look on how I can find a shot where I thought none existed before.

If you like photography, this is one book you should consider for your collection.

This book reads like an abbreviated version of his other books: Understanding Shutter Speed and Understanding Exposure (which I have both) crammed into one book. I purchased this book expecting to learn to See Creatively, Design, Color & Composition. What I found was photographic basics, lens choices, depth of field, shutter speed, etc etc. It is not the advanced design and composition I was hoping for. Frankly there are better(more in depth)books out there for beginners. Bottom line don't waste your money.

Certainly one book on photographic creativity will not turn you into an artistic genius, but Bryan Peterson's book will certainly get your artistic juices flowing and give you some impetus towards beginning to be more creative. The photographs presented as examples in the book are lush and invite you to pursue being more creative.

The material in this book is beautifully done and organized. Peterson approaches photography from a compositional elements point of view, but he includes how he uses his equipment to get there. He suggests a number of easy methods and viewpoints for seeing and creating striking photos as you take them, rather than in Photoshop. (However he isn't above using it). He also thoroughly discusses many of his images so you can read what he was looking for when he shot them. His writing is straightforward and concise. Much better than the average photo book.

It has superb photograph's and a lot of useful tips concerning using different points of view, also about the use of color, as well as getting the most and best out of depth of field

I first read Peterson's Understanding Exposure: How to Shoot Great Photographs with a Film or Digital Camera (Updated Edition), and while it's filled with useful information, techniques, and photos, this one gets me much more excited and inspired to get out and shoot. Peterson's enthusiasm for photography and teaching is obvious, and contagious. Once I got a basic handle of the technicals off photography, I find myself asking, "Okay, what do I shoot now?" Peterson's book demonstrates that you can find compelling images all over the place.

I found this book and the other book ( Understanding Exposure ) on PDF file and I read these books, then I purchased the two books for my library because these books are very easy to understand and also great reference in photography.

Gives you the basic tools. Has some good exercises for seeing creatively.

This is a must-have for amateur photographers. I only wish this was in a smaller format so it could be carried around in my camera bag.
The author is bery good in explaining the scene, the picture and why the picture is appealing to him. He shows how minor changes like lowering the camera or zooming in further while taking a picture can make the difference between a boring picture an one that 'pops'. Check out the images on the back cover for some examples. (mouse over the image of the book at the top of the page and the 'Back Cover' is in the last line of the pop-up)

Bryan has such a great way of relating to the reader and showing you that it is possible to learn to be creative. His images are inspirational and his explanations are easily understood. He also offers some great exercises to enhance your creativity. I find myself frequently referring back to his books.

There has been a need for a book on seeing creatively, especially one that is comprehensible by new photographers. This one covers all the aspects of composing good images, from designing the frame, through the effects of color. Peterson's books all do a good job of presenting the basics in a clear way, and this is one of his best.

Just starting reading and from what i have read so far this is going to be a ripper. Combined with understanding exposure and you have a wonderful combination of learning to take great photos.

He is good! I read some many other photo books from bookstore, his book(s) is really something. Almost all of his photos are different from the other famous photographers. He has the photography vision and as matter of fact, I learnt a great deal from him. actually, I did buy three of his photo books. It is highly recommended to anyone who wanna learn photography and learn it well! Great jobs, bryan

This is an incredibly well written and documented book which leads you through the various major points of your camera options, lens choices and composition. His ability to bring home simple points and their explanations were excellent. A MUST read. I LOVEDed Oregon pictures!

Wonderful photography, nice stories about their taking, lot's of helpful advice and examples, and no boring pictures about the authors equipment. Anything else to say about this book? Yes: buy it! (******)

This is an excellent book for beginners in photography

Great book! It changed the way I look at the world. More and more of my shots are becoming real pictures instead of just snap-shots. Thank you Bryan!

Bryan Peterson's book is excellent for beginners like myself. He walks you through basic prinicples of design and composition with many excellent examples. Most importantly he walks you through his thought process. Each picture has information about how he shot it and often why he shot it that way. The book also includes several useful excercises to help you develop your eye. Although it could be argued that the book doesn't cover all topics and is not as thorough as other books, it accompishes its purpose which is to get beginning photographers to see the world around them differently. This book rapidly improved my shots because the examples and principles are so clear. Now I am ready to move on to more complex and complete books. I highly recommend this book to get started.

The book is a must read and the author has an exceptional style in delivering the information in a very easy yet rich way.
If you already have an SLR camera and want to truely master photography, regardless of what camera you have then you will get a lot of help from this book.
The author has provided several effective exercises that help develope a "photographic eye" and makes you become comfortable using the different kinds of lenses. Plus the settings and lenses used under or next to each picture on the page.
Structured in a very systematic way, each subject in the book is more interesting than the one before it.
You may be able to operate your camera really well but lack the creative ideas or can't see the perfect picture when you look into a scene. This book will help you overcome that limitation and allow you to break your own barrier, taking you and your photographic work into a higher level.

Bryan Peterson's book,Learning to See Creatively, is an extraordinary treasure trove of photographic techniques and tips. The book helps the photographer to step out of the regular view and discover a whole new angle on life, be it from below or above. The photos inside the book are awe-inspiring, and show Peterson for the photographic genius he is. There is so much to learn from this book, everyone should keep it as reference book. And Peterson does a great job of teaching without getting boring, keeping a sense of humor the whole time. I would recommend not only this book, but all of Peterson's books, to any photographer who wants to improve his photos, no matter what skill level.

I bought this book along with Understanding Exposure and they make a nice pair. One for the technical basics and the other for the more creative side.

My order for this book arrived today, and I picked it up, and started reading it over lunch. After I got my daughter to bed tonight, I finished reading the entire book. This does not happen often. This is just a great book. I would say about 1/2 the book is really about learning to see creatively, about 1/4 is about photography, to make more sense of the creativity part, and about 1/4 is other stuff, that binds the book together, to be one great read. It features a lot of wonderful photographs that SHOW you what he is talking about. I really liked the author's "challenges" in the book. From looking at things from a different perspective, to taking pictures, of the same subject, from the same angle, at different times of the day. Great ideas.

It feels a LITTLE (VERY LITTLE) outdated. With the break-neck pace of digital photography, I am not sure that you could ever truely have an up to date book. The book is written by a person that sounds like he shot a lot of film, but I would say EASILY 99% of the book is generic for anyone that shoots film OR digital. I really like how he talks about how he uses photography as his business, and discusses how much he has made on some pictures. It was a real eye opener.

What I really liked about this book, is that it was easy to read. The concepts were broken down well, and it had that elusive entertaining quality.

I have dabbled in photography throughout the years, and consider myself an amature.

I have several books on photography, but this is the one I read through time and time again. Peterson shows a regular snapshot, and how, with a little effort, you can creat an eyecatching image instead. This book is loaded with excellent, inspiring images, and I give it my best recommendations.

This is an excellent book to get you started on more creative photography, the exercises are excellent. The book is well written.

The book contains attractive photographs, but is lacking in content, perhaps aimed at those just getting started in photography.

i'm an amateur that want to improve his compositional skill and i found this book a bit superficial. beautiful photos and a brief narration of the background that to shot involves; nice hints to shot similar photos but no more. i found understanding exposure of the same author a far lot better to maintain title promises.

As in all of his books there were a lot of tips and useful information in this Scott Kelby book. I'm glad to add this book to my library of photography books.

As a beginner to photography, this book was easy to understand and inspirational...how to find the beautiful, unusual, exciting, etc. that's all around us all the time.

As a square corners and center of the frame type, thanks to Bryan Peterson, I am learning to approach a potential image with more thought as to a more creative and more interesting presentation for the viewer. His sample photos that support his teachings give me a chance to practice his style while I seek to find mine.

Bill Brennan

I can recommend Bryan Peterson's work! He has a talent for teaching photography in a fun and comprehensive way. The book contains all color pictures, many of the examples in the 'good pic/bad pic' format that really shows WHY a certain composition would or would not work. Putting theory to practice on your own work is hard, but this book is a great help.

i am very happy to have this book.
You can learn step by step to develope your creativ seeing.

...to learn how to take better than average photographs. Peterson does a masterful job of explaining how you can use the elements of design to see more in a shot than you might otherwise. This book has earned a permanent place on my shelf because it's advice is practical, useful, and clearly stated. Moreover, the techniques and concepts it covers can be applied with ANY lens, contrary to what other here have written. It is one of the few photography books I've bought (and I've bought more than a few) that has truly helped me move forward in the hobby. The author's book on exposure is a fine primer for the beginner, and this volume is an excellent companion piece.

This is a great book! Too often, while mulling through substandard pictures in similar books, one begins to sense a 'do-as-I-say-not-as-I-do' approach to teaching photography. "Learning to See Creatively" is NOT one of those books as rock-solid concepts are accompanied by breathtaking images...along with detailed explanations of the techniques used by the author when taking each picture. I give this book an A+.

I ordered this item more than a month ago. I ordered two other books from different vendors alongside of it. other orders have been received in a timely manner.
I don't know what the delay or problem is with this book's delivery. If you don't intend to send it, give me my money back!!!!!

This book is very easy to understand. There are many colorful photos with examples. As an amateur photographer who is looking to create photos..this is the BOOK to have in your library!

Bryan Peterson is a fantastic photographer that explains things in a simple and understandable way. He is awesome. I have purchased two books from him and intend on taking an online photo course soon with him as the instructor. I have learned more from him in 3 months than I have in my entire time of years trying to learn for myself without attending a college or other photography school.

if you are trying to learn photography and are looking to take shots that are more than a snapshot. Another in a long list of great books by Bryan Peterson.

I bought this book to help me take better pictures. Wow...was I surprised. It has given me a whole new way to look at making pictures!

I came across his short video lessons vie Adorama's web site. Bryan Peterson is very knowledgeable when it comes to photograpy. Since he has been in it so long he brings the creative aspect into taking pictures. I have been in it for 30+ years but not professionally so this book has really opened my eyes into taking better pictures creatively. I would recommend this book to most anyone that would like to improve his or her pictures by seeing creatively.

This book is about compositing great shots. It is not about aperture or shutter speed at all. Cheap telephone on your mobile/cell/hand phone or an expensive DSLR camera, you can learn a lot from this book.

I just bought my first DSLR camera. I bought ten photography books on amazon. I'm evaluating these books from the perspective of a semi-advanced amateur. (On things I've learnt is that book by the same author tends to be very similar. So make sure you vary your authors when buying more than one book. Rather than saying this author is good, let me buy more from him/her.)

The book realy helps you to see things different, also the book was is great condition (Used) when it arrived.

I purchased this book on the recommendation of a podcaster I follow and was not at all disappointed! Bryan Peterson does a great job of giving the reader lots of ideas in many aspects of photography on how to make more original images. Excellent book for photographers at all levels. The images in the book are wonderful and give the reader a good idea of how to improve his/her own images.

This book is put together in an excellent format & has beautiful photographs to use as a starting point.

I've bought some books by Michael Freeman and now but now I bought this one and it is far better. Bryan Peterson is a very skillful photographer and also a talented teacher. He explains concepts so clearly and expands with possible shooting ideas. He really enlightens your senses, it's like the words given awake your senses. It's a great, great book. I'll buy the other two as soon as possible.

Great book that some pros also need to read. Really gives you insight before activating the shutter.

Anything by Bryan is a great read!

Excellent product for the price. Vendor was prompt and communicative. I purchased this book "used" and it is in "new" condition. I will definitely deal with them again.

This book really opened my eyes. Now when I look at things, I look differently. I see better and more, if that's possible. I've been travelling all over the world since forever, and I see everything in a whole new light. This is a must for any photographer. Another wonderful experience with Amazon.

This book is a great tool for people who already have a basic to moderate understanding of how shutter speed, aperture, ISO, etc. work. It provides hundreds of examples of each creative technique along with side by side examples of basic compositions and then how to make the same composition better following the rules of design. I have already recommended this to a friend of mine and would do it again in a heartbeat!

The book is very good and does and excellent job of explaining what it is about. Excellent shopping experience and will use Amazon again.

This is a terrific book. It covers the basics in depth and in an easy to understand manner. I teach a beginning photography class for the city and will be utilizing this book.

I would recommend this book to anyone starting off in photography.

Invaluable information, well presented, and easily referenced.

A very good book of instruction and fabulous examples are given of creative picture taking.

Learning to See Creatively: Design, Color & Composition in Photography (Updated Edition)

A wonderful translation of the thoughts of a Master Photographer and Artist in to simple words. This book can be an ideal tool for a Novice to a Pro alike. With simple words and ample examples Bryan has opened many avenues for one to use the Grey Matter in the Brain and come out with wonderful images from every scene and sight which lies in front. I also purchased 'Understanding Exposure' which is another masterpiece by itself. Both these books were wonderful and I have just ordered ' Understanding Shutterspeed and also Beyond Portraiture by the same author and just cant wait to get them and read them. I have become an ardent student of Bryan through these books, and Thanks to Amazon for getting them in my reach, as the place I live in, I dont have any book shops selling them. Thanks, Kris

The autor shows his way to be "creative" in the photo stock agencyes world.
It's not so simple to understand and use all his tips, but it is a great beginning point.

Learning to See Creatively: Design, Color & Composition in Photography (Updated Edition) is a book telling what I expected. Techniques of good photographs are always presented with pictures. Readers can easily understand what writer wants to convey.

Learning about photography, this is a great first time /review of things you for got and thing you just didn't know how book.very helpful.

I thought that this book covered a lot of the elements of seeing. It spoke little of the development of a photographic vision, but that sort of thing is pretty much up to the individual photographer, IMHO, and takes up a lot of time and thought, combined with reviewing, critiquing, workshopping, and so forth. The book covers all of the necessary elements that you need to look for in developing a composition, some of the dos and don'ts of framing, elements to look for, such as line, form, color, shape, texture, etc. In short, it is a very good read by an obviously very good photographer. Peterson doesn't point you to your own photographic vision, but he leads you to a place where it can be discovered over time. Follow the points in the book, and you will get the rest from shooting, shooting, and shooting.

Great Book! This book covers a completely different subject matter that you don't find in most photograghy books. The pictures are incredible and the author goes as far as to provide you with the settings used to make the shoot. This really helps if you are a hands-on learner. One thing to remember when looking at the book is that Bryan Peterson is truly a professional and Photoshop was most likely used to help with some of the special effects. Don't get frustrated if your pictures don't look as good. You may need to perfect your Photoshop skills. Fanatasic book to add to your library.

Learning to See Creatively: Design, Color & Composition in Photography (Updated Edition) This book helped to make the basic ideas for photographic creativity easy to understand and are well ilustrated with simple examples. I recomend the purchase of this book.

I purchased this book earlier this summer and couldn't be more pleased with the information it contains. I needed some inspiration to "see" things differently to make my photographs more dramatic. Bryan's writing and assignments in this book really changed the way I look at the composition of a scene and the way I see colors and how they compliment each other. My photos have improved A LOT since applying some of the principles written about in this book.

good experience, did not speed in sending and prefered no shippimg. I deal with Amazon and they always take care of me

Author is extremely creative photographer, and book is well written. Great for the amateur photographer who wants more from their photos.

I'm a big fan of Bryan Peterson's books and I found this one very helpful. His tips on how to see things differently and how to take shots from different angles and vantage points were great. I think the best part about his books is that he shows examples of the same scene captured in different ways and it's alway clear to the reader which is the most compelling and interesting. Plus, he always tells you exactly how he took the shot, what his camera settings were and other useful information that you can use right away. I highly recommend this and Bryan's other books.

This book is great! I felt like I had lost my ability to "see" and was just shooting pictures for the purpose of shooting. This book got me excited about photography again and helped me to find my creative eye. Whether you're a beginner, advanced amateur or semi-pro photographer, this is a good book to have in your library. Peterson explains everything in detail as to how he got his picture.

Excellent book and a must for any level photographer.
I especially love the "before and after" photos. Very inspiring. I can't wait to use my new 'eyes' through the lens to see the new world around me. Excellent!

The companion to Peterson's "Understanding Exposure". Basic fundamentals of composition demonstrates that seeing creatively is an acquired skill that can be developed. All Peterson's books deserve a place on your shelf.