Best Book On Photography?

I'm looking for the best photography instruction book out there. I need something that will make me a good enough photographer to justify the money I spent on my camera. Any suggestions?

 

National Geographic Photography Field Guide

Beyond that, forget the book and shoot! It's the only way to make the photographer you want to be.

The book is a good one though if you want something small enough to throw in your bag.

 

The one I hear most commonly is "Understanding Exposure" by Brian Peterson. I bought it about a week ago and am about halfway through it. It's great about covering the "building blocks"

 

what are you hoping to learn?

what do you already know?

what kind of camera did you buy?

 

I know just enough to know that I don't know much. I think I have a decent eye for determining what would make a good picture. But for some reason, when I take a picture it just doesn't look that good.

I'd say I'm a slightly above average "joe average" photographer. I want to be better than that.

The camera I bought is a Canon EOS digital rebel XT. It came with an 18-55mm lens and a 75-300mm lens. I also bought a wide angle lens with a macro.

 

honestly, the manual that came with your camera. It's a dry read, but if you read it while you have your camera out, you will learn a lot about your camera. 2nd place: understanding exposure, bryan peterson.

 

one more thing you might could look into...

Jodie Coston's free lesson...scroll down a smidge

http://www.morguefile.com/archive/classroom.php

 

Great link - thanks!

and welcome, by the way. Make yourself at home.