Art Books

If you're drawn to the beauty of cities told through the lens of a camera, "Glasgow - Picturing Scotland" might just take your breath away. Colin Nutt offers you a visual ticket to explore Glasgow's historic grandeur, architectural marvels by Mackintosh, and the city's modern revival. This book is a love letter to Scotland's urban splendor, and if you cherish the blend of old and new or yearn for travel inspiration, this could be your next favorite coffee table companion.

Heading to the Eternal City? With recommendations pulled straight from local insiders, this Time Out guide is a trove for discovering both Rome's majestic historical sites and its hidden gems. From Turkish baths to where you can learn to be a gladiator, this book takes you beyond the typical tourist paths. Plus, with tips on snag its great eatery finds and budget-friendly stays, you'll navigate Rome with the savvy of a seasoned traveler.

Imagine having a personal tour guide in your hands as you explore Continental Europe. Insight Guides provides that experience through their visually rich and informative guide. Not only will it deepen your understanding of diverse cultures and locations, but it'll also serve as a memorable keepsake long after your travels have ended. With detailed maps and recommendations, it's a perfect travel companion for both the seasoned and aspiring adventurer.

If you've ever felt drawn to the vibrant clash of color, sound, and spectacle that is the circus, "The Greatest Shows on Earth" invites you on a grand historical tour. It’s not just a trip through the circus's glittering past; it's an exploration of cultural and artistic fascination. Perfect for those intrigued by the lore of acrobats, aerialists, and the ringmasters who have inspired generations, Linda Simon serves as your guide through the evolution of this fantastical world where the impossible becomes reality.

If you're interested in photography beyond casual shots, "The Fundamentals of Creative Photography" could be an enlightening read. It's not just about snapping pictures; it's a deep dive into creating images that serve a purpose and satisfy a client's vision. David Prakel's experience translates into practical advice, from skill development to navigating the business side of photography. This book could be your stepping stone to approaching photography with a professional lens.

If you're looking to unwind at the piano, The Essential Jim Brickman is perfect for you. These easy-to-play arrangements invite both budding and experienced pianists to engage with Brickman's soothing melodies. Whether you're seeking a peaceful interlude in your day or a new repertoire that calms, this collection delivers beautifully simplistic musical pleasure.

Work08 could be a great read for those who are interested in improving their work productivity and overall performance. This book covers tips and strategies on how to streamline your work process and maximize efficiency. The most unique feature of this book is its practicality and applicability in real-life work scenarios. Readers can expect to see tangible improvements in their work performance after implementing the strategies presented in this book.

If you've invested in the world of Leica, or you're contemplating it, this guide by Brian Bower is like having a masterclass tailored to your exquisite camera. Bower doesn't just skim the surface; he dives deep into the specifics, helping you leverage every feature of your Leica M8/M8.2. The added coverage of the full-frame Leica M9 ensures that as your skills and gear evolve, this book remains an indispensable part of your photography toolkit.

Blowing Smoke is a must-read book for those who enjoy smoking cigars or want to learn more about them. It offers a unique perspective on the culture surrounding cigars, including strange rituals and the famous people who enjoy them. The book's humor and witty writing style make it an entertaining and informative read that will leave readers wanting more.

If you're someone with an eye for design and a love for the visually stunning, "Gallery: Volume 7" is a title you should consider. It offers a wealth of inspiration with its curated collection of contemporary designs. Each page is bound to ignite your creativity and give you a fresh perspective on modern aesthetics. Whether you're a professional designer or simply appreciate beautiful things, this book is a visual feast not to be missed.

If you're a fan of the weird and wonderful side of the automotive world, "100 Maddest Cars" is a joyride through the outlandish and the exceptional. It's a compilation that will tickle the fancy of any car enthusiast who appreciates the whimsical ingenuity that comes along with Top Gear's signature style. Picture yourself flipping through pages of the bizarre automotive experiments you've secretly wished to see on the roads!

If you're passionate about capturing life's moments through a lens, "Practical Photography" by John Freeman could be the guide you've been seeking. This book avoids overwhelming jargon, focusing instead on easy-to-understand advice. It teaches you how to consistently take great photos, making it invaluable for both beginners learning the ropes and more experienced photographers looking to refine their skills.

If you're eager to delve into photography but find the technical aspects intimidating, "Take Great Pictures: A Simple Guide" might just be your ideal starting point. Lou Jacobs Jr. has a talent for breaking down complex concepts into digestible chunks, making this book perfect for beginners. With a hands-on approach that includes full-colour photos for inspiration, you'll soon be capturing images that you're proud to show off.

Whether you're a budding photographer or a seasoned shutterbug, Michael Freeman's 'The Photographer's Field Guide' offers the practical wisdom you need. With this book in your camera bag, you're equipped to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments, no matter where your travels take you. It's packed with advice that helps you overcome on-the-road challenges, ensuring you bring home captivating images that tell the story of your adventures.

Baboon Metaphysics is a quirky find that's likely to spark the interest of anyone amused by unusual book titles that make you do a double-take. It's for the inquisitive mind that is curious about the stories behind such peculiar titles, offering a blend of humor and an exploration into the literary oddities that make the world of books so diverse and fascinating.

This feels less like a brand history and more like a beautifully curated love letter to cycling itself. If you enjoy books that mix great visuals with thoughtful creative voices, this one has the kind of style and passion that makes you want to linger over every page. It’s especially rewarding for readers who see bicycles as more than transport, but as objects of identity, craftsmanship, and culture.

If you're immersed in graphic design or desktop publishing, this could really add a creative edge to your work. Duotones, Tritones, and Quadtones offer a treasure trove of illustrations that not only inspire but demonstrate the potential of limited color palettes. You'll find it an indispensable reference that can transform your two, three, or four-color projects.

This book seems like a perfect fit for a food blogger looking to enhance their photography skills. With Matt Armendariz's expertise, it's like having a mentor guide you through the nuances of food styling and photography. You'll find practical advice and insider tips that can transform your blog's visual appeal, even if you're just using what you have at home. Highly recommended for those ready to take their food images from average to mouthwatering.

If you have a passion for entertaining and a keen eye for aesthetics, "Tabletops" is a treasure trove you shouldn't miss. Barbara Milo Ohrbach's expertise in transforming the mundane into the magnificent shines through each page, making it an essential companion for anyone looking to elevate their table setting game with easy yet impactful ideas. Whether you're preparing for an intimate dinner or a grand celebration, the vivid photographs and accessible tips will inspire you to create tablescapes that guests will remember long after the last course.

This book is a must-read for aspiring photographers looking to take their lighting skills to the next level. With the Canon Speedlite System Digital Field Guide, you will learn how to achieve professional lighting effects in various settings, all while using wireless flash units that are convenient for on-the-go photography. Packed with full-color illustrations and expert tips, this guide will make you a master of professional lighting techniques. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your photography skills.

If you've got a sweet tooth and love the aroma of coffee, then this treasure trove of coffee desserts is your next kitchen companion. Imagine the satisfaction of baking delectable treats that blend that rich, comforting coffee flavor into every bite. Catherine Atkinson offers a visual feast with step-by-step guidance, making it a delight not just to bake, but to devour visually before the actual indulgence. Whether for a cozy family gathering or impressing guests at a dinner party, these recipes will elevate your dessert game.

Remember how "High School Musical" made you feel? This songbook lets you relive that. Bringing all the catchy tunes from the hit movie into your hands, it's a tangible piece of that sweet, upbeat high school spirit. If you loved the energy and messages of camaraderie from the movie, playing these tunes will be like a warm, nostalgic hug.

If you're drawn to the power of photojournalism, this yearbook is like a time capsule in pictures, showcasing stunning images that capture the triumphs, tragedies, and everyday humanity of the past year. It's a visual feast that might just inspire you to see the world through a different lens.

If you're looking to be inspired by the creative trends in the digital advertising world, One Show Interactive offers you a goldmine of excellence. It's not just about showcasing the winners; it's about diving into their strategies, structures, and designs through insightful commentary. The included CD-ROM is your interactive gateway to these innovative campaigns, making it a tactile learning experience for anyone passionate about the evolution of advertising and design.

"Made in York" is a great read for anyone interested in York County's past, specifically relating to its industrial history. The book is authored by George R. Sheets and published by the Agricultural & Industrial Museum of York County in 1991. With its hardcover format, this book is a great addition to any history buff's collection.

This book on using Nik Software's tools is a must-read for both amateur and professional photographers looking to take their skills to the next level. With comprehensive coverage of the digital workflow, editing techniques, and specific tools like Dfine 2.0 and Silver Efex Pro 2, this book provides a complete guide to unleashing the full potential of your photographs. Whether you're interested in HDR imaging or enhancing the sharpness of your images, Nik Software Captured has got you covered. Get ready to master the art of photography with Nik Software!

If you've got an appetite for the unusual, "The World Of Ripley's Believe It Or Not!" will satisfy your curiosity. This book is a treasure trove of the world's most astonishing and peculiar records that Robert Ripley himself documented. It's like a guided tour through a cabinet of curiosities, perfect for anyone who delights in the strange and the extraordinary.

This is ideal if you want practical results without overspending. It demystifies equipment, studios, darkrooms, portraits, and landscapes. The adaptable DIY advice helps turn limited space into opportunity. You’ll come away ready to take photography more seriously.

This book is perfect for amateur photographers who want to improve their portrait photography skills. With practical tips and techniques from National Geographic photographers, you'll learn how to capture the essence and emotion of your subjects. Whether you're photographing your family, friends, or strangers, this guide will help you create stunning portraits that tell a story and leave a lasting impression. You'll also gain insights into camera angles, lighting, and composition, allowing you to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Get ready to take your portrait photography to new heights with this invaluable resource.

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing Earth from the cosmos, "Orbit" is your vicarious ticket aboard the space shuttle. Full of magnificent, birds-eye photography, it'll ground your perspective on our planet's beauty and vulnerability. Seeing the tangible traces of climate change from this unique vantage point could be a transformative experience.

This guide makes Orwell’s allegory easier to unpack. Chapter summaries and theme explanations sharpen your understanding quickly. Ideal for exam revision, essay planning, or late-night studying.

If you've recently picked up a Canon Digital Rebel and are feeling a bit daunted by all those buttons and settings, this field guide could be your new best friend. It's practical, easy to carry around, and provides just the right mix of technical detail and clear, visual examples. Consider it a shortcut to elevating your photography game without getting lost in the manual.

Delve into this hardcover piece and immerse yourself in Chen Yifei's visual repertoire. It's a visual chronology that captures the silent, yet profound evolution of one of China's most prominent contemporary artists. The absence of textual analysis lets the artwork speak directly to you, making it an intimate and personal experience as you interpret each piece through your own lens.

If you're intrigued by the historical and cultural significance of ceramics, especially in the context of ancient China, "Spirit of Han" offers a deep dive into this niche subject. The book explores how these artifacts served as vessels of tradition, belief, and artistry, providing a tangible connection to the Han dynasty's views on mortality and the after-life. It's an enlightening read for anyone interested in archaeology, history, or art.

For photography aficionados and history enthusiasts alike, "A Year in Photography: Magnum Archive" is a visual feast. It's not just about the images; it's an homage to the world's shared history through a lens—carefully-selected snaps for each day, offering an intimate gaze into the soul of society and the art of photography itself. With a photo for every day of the year, you could make it a daily ritual to immerse yourself in the poignant storytelling captured by the eyes of Magnum photographers.

If you have an eye for design and culture, "Barcelona - StyleCity" could be the perfect travel companion for you. Phyllis Richardson guides you through the city's heart, not just as a tourist but as someone seeking an authentic, design-rich urban experience. Exploring this book is like walking through Barcelona's streets, feeling the creative pulse of its bars, shops, and neighborhoods.

This book would be a good read for photography enthusiasts who want to capture beautiful, spontaneous-looking images without relying heavily on artificial lighting. Bill Hurter provides a comprehensive guide on how to harness and manipulate existing light, giving readers the tools and techniques to create professional-quality photographs. With the rise of digital photography, this book offers valuable insights for those looking to enhance their skills and make the most of natural lighting in their wedding and portrait photography.

If you've ever felt curious about classical music but thought it was too complex, this book is your perfect starting point. It breaks down barriers, offering a gentle introduction that will equip you with the foundation to explore and enjoy this rich musical genre with confidence. Its clear, accessible guidance is a stepping stone to a lifelong love of classical music.

If capturing moments is your passion, this book is like your personal mentor in print form. John Garrett translates the craft of photography into easy-to-understand segments, perfect for beginners eager to advance. As you flip through, imagine gaining confidence with each page, ready to experiment with your camera and creative vision.

If you're enamored by the transient art of retail displays and the pulsating fashion heartbeat of Paris, "Fashion Eyes" offers a visual feast that may no longer exist in its physical form. With Puffy Cheung's eye for the interplay of color, texture, and light, this book captures the fleeting but striking creativity of shop windows before they vanish for the season's new trends. It's a must-have for those who appreciate fashion as a form of public exhibition and design inspiration.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the switch from film to digital, this guide will be like your photographic compass. It's not just filled with technical jargon; it presents a plethora of colorful illustrations that make the complex simple. For the hands-on learner eager to preserve and showcase moments flawlessly, 'Amphoto's Guide to Creative Digital Photography' is the mentor-in-pages you've probably been searching for.

If you're someone drawn to the intermingling of history and modernity, Istanbul's journey captured in this book is a visual feast. Through the lens of Tahsin Aydogmuş and others, the timeless allure of this ancient city comes to life, offering you a silent yet profound narrative that reveals the heart of Istanbul in black and white. Each photograph in this collection tells a story, inviting you to wander the streets and feel the texture of the city through its architecture and the spirit of its people.

This feels made for anyone who wants to become a stronger reader and writer without getting buried in dense theory. Its biggest strength is how it pairs short, approachable pieces with clear rhetorical patterns, so you start noticing how good writing works almost naturally. Readers would probably love how practical and varied it feels, with everything from essays to poems and images keeping the experience fresh and useful.

If you're intrigued by the mysteries and grandeur of the past, this album will let you traverse the Forbidden City's timeless majesty through its captivating visuals. It's a treat for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike, offering a glimpse into a world where emperors once trod. The multilingual captions are just a bonus, making it accessible to a global audience.

If you've been wondering how to elevate your photography, this guide by David Busch could be invaluable. It simplifies the complex world of DSLR lenses, allowing you to understand when and how to use each type for maximum impact. The visual, easy-to-grasp explanations are perfect for visual learners eager to harness the full potential of their camera's lenses.

If you're a photographer who thrives on capturing breathtaking outdoor shots, "Secrets of Lighting on Location" is a must-read. Filled with stunning images from around the world, Bob Krist shares his expertise on transforming any location with the perfect lighting. From natural light to artificial sources, this book equips you with the techniques and tools you need to overcome challenges and capture stunning photographs. With detailed lighting diagrams and inspiring examples from international pros, you'll unlock the secret to creating magic in any location.

If capturing perfect shots with your Nikon gear is your goal, the 'Nikon Creative Lighting System Digital Field Guide' has you covered. It takes the complexity out of using the intricate lighting setups and breaks down tough concepts into manageable advice. Think of it as a practical companion that will take your lighting skills from good to great, whether in a professional studio or the wild.

If you're mesmerized by the power and elegance of ocean waves, Clark Little's book is a must-have. His photographs do more than show you the surf; they transport you inside the barrel, offering a perspective that's both exhilarating and humbling. This book evokes the awe of nature's artistry and will likely be one of the most visually captivating additions to your collection.

Simon Beecroft’s encyclopedia focuses on Star Wars characters. It was a 2012 YALSA Quick Pick Top Ten selection for reluctant readers. This used copy ships from the US and may show wear or notes.