This book contains a collection of black and white photographs taken by
Edward Gillum. In his introduction, the
photographer
talks about the
importance of visualization in
photography. He believes that if ability
to visualize in photography can come only after long experience as a
photographer.Further, he believes that truly great
photographers are born not made. While individuals can learn technique,
they have to be born with a certain instinct in order to reach the
highest levels of artistic photography. He draws an analogy, between a
photographer and a concert pianist. He feels that while someone may
study piano and learn technique, becoming a good pianist in the
process, that’s no guarantee that that person will enjoy a stellar
career on stage. Without talent and ambition, it’s not possible. In his
mind, the same holds true for photography.Gillum very readily
makes references to his own experience as a photography to illustrate
just how painstaking and time-consuming the process developing a talent
for photography can be.The book’s layout is easy to follow.
When opened, the page on the left contains text, while the page on the
right contains a single photograph. The text is the author’s commentary
on the location shown in the photograph. Additionally, he offers
details about the time of day the photograph was taken, how or why he
happened to be in the area, and the types of cameras and lenses used to
take the picture.Each photograph is of a single subject. In
most cases, it’s a natural setting, somewhere in the western part of
the United States. There are, for example, pictures of bodies of water,
trees, mountains, and flowers. Each photograph is in black and white. Since
Gillum is very much concerned with the technical aspects photography,
the book includes a glossary of terms used in the text. That’s
especially helpful to readers who have a limited understanding of
vocabulary related specifically to photography.