National Geographic Photo Basics

For digital camera and smartphone users, this fun, easy how-to guide teaches the essentials of taking great pictures from an experienced National Geographic photographer.

Written by National Geographic photographer and founder of the Photo Ark Joel Sartore, this entertaining book shows aspiring photographers how to take great pictures, from framing and F-stops to editing and archiving. Whether you're taking pictures with your phone or a DSLR camera, you'll learn the fundamentals of photography--and how to put them to work every day.

In a series of short lessons, Sartore explains the basics, from choosing a camera and gear to understanding focus, exposure, composition, and lighting. Using examples from his own work, he applies the basic rules of photography to family, pet, travel, nature, and street photos, and how to get a great shot with the camera on your smartphone.

Throughout the book you'll find pro tips, quick assignments, and the behind-the-camera stories of great photographs. Helpful notes clarify how to use every piece of advice with your smartphone camera. Fun and informative, this book will be your gateway to taking great pictures.

About the Author

Joel Sartore is an acclaimed nature photographer and his 20 years in the field include 14 with the National Geographic Society. His assignments have taken him everywhere from the Amazon rain forests to Alaska to Yellowstone Park.