Portraits and Figures: Developing Style in Creative Photography

This is probably my all-time favorite photography book, and I'll explain why:1) The images are outstanding, both technically and creatively. I have never tired of looking at this book -- how many books can you say that about? If you love B & W, you simply must have this book. It has images from contemporary photographers like Eammon McCabe and Andreas Zacharatos, as well greats like Bert Hardy.2) The book is beautifully printed. I love the square format and heavy stock pages - it will last a long time.3) Each full-page image is accompanied by a paragraph or more description and statement by the actual photographer, explaining the intent, technique, difficulties, etc. These statements by the photographers are extremely interesting and educational. I have probably read these pages at least two dozen times for each image. The technical details of each image are one of the main reasons I first bought this book (includes type of camera, format, f-stop, exposure, and film).4) All the images and text add to your understanding of how these images were made, and gives you new ideas and inspriation to try new techniques. I disagree with the other reviewer that the text is too small: it is small, but in my view the layout of this book is outstanding, and very effective.5) This book has opened my eyes to see the potential and diversity of what is called "portrait" photography! You won't regret owning this book.