Classic Glamour Photography: Techniques of the Top Glamour Photographers 
by Iain Banks, Revised by Duncan Evans
Paperback: 160 pages
ISBN 0817436731 

The title of this book made me think of classic black and white glamour shots from the 40's and 50's. If ever a book was misnamed its this one. A better title might be Classic Erotic Photography.

Like many similar books this one is divided into two parts. The first half of the book is a showcase of the work of Erotic Glamour photographers. It is a visual showcase of high quality erotic glamour photography, though the text in this section is little more than short pseudo articles about each photographer. You'll find inspiration in the images but you'll find very little meat in the text.

The second half of the book is another story. Banks goes into detail on every part of a model shoot, whether shooting on location or in the studio. His coverage includes equipment, forms, lighting, working in studios and on location, the photographer/model relationship, and what goes on in post production work. All in all an impressive reference for an experienced photographer who is beginning work in this area.

The Photographer's Toning Book: 
The Definitive Guide 
by Tim Rudman
Paperback: 208 pages
ISBN 0817454659

I've learned to be skeptical of anything that calls itself "The Definitive Guide", but in the case of this amazingly thorough book by Tim Rudman the title is certainly deserved.

For those of you who've never spent time in a darkroom it might come as a surprise just how many different techniques there are for producing a print. For those of you familiar with a darkroom this book is an amazing resource that will save your hours of expensive trial an error.

The book is beautifully illustrated. Toning techniques are explained in clear detailed language. Along with each technique possible pitfalls are pointed out and notes on the toxicity of the chemicals used are provided where necessary (some of these processes use some really nasty goop). Also of great value are the extensive reference sections and tables at the end of the book. If you're a Photoshop guy this isn't the book for you. But if you create your prints in a darkroom this book is an indispensable reference that will find a place on your bookshelf and be dog eared in short order.

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