Making Photographs

Ray Doiron is an assistant professor in the Faculty of Education at the
University of Prince Edward Island and the Preschool to Grade 6
nonfiction reviews co-ordinator at Resource Links.

Making Photographs is an excellent introduction for young people to the
world of photography. Burton, an accomplished photographer in her own
right, sets out to teach young people the special skills that help make
good photographs.

Sixteen chapters outline camera basics: the use of single-lens reflex
cameras; design, composition, light, and special effects; and the common
things people like to photograph (e.g., landscapes, families, friends,
travel). Each chapter is written in an intelligent and interesting style
designed to challenge young readers and to stimulate their interest in
photography. Chapter headings organize the topics in a logical order.
Diagrams and photographs illustrate the ideas discussed in the text and
brightly colored page borders tie the whole thing together.

The full-color photographs are excellent examples of the subjects young
people encounter in their daily life; they are balanced, well-composed,
and professionally laid out, yet still within the skill level of
beginning photographers. Another of the book’s strengths is the way
Burton has incorporated the photos into the text rather than presenting
them in a series with the text following.

Young people who like to take photographs or who belong to photography
clubs will especially enjoy this book. Highly recommended for school and
public libraries.