Book review of The Way of the Rangefinder Camera

Master the art of Leica M digital rangefinder photography with Scott R. Morvay's "The Way of the Rangefinder Camera," Third Edition. This comprehensive guide goes beyond basic instruction, offering a practical and engaging approach to honing your skills. Learn fundamental photographic techniques, master focusing methods with accompanying video tutorials accessed via QR codes, and delve into post-processing and file management. Explore the rich history of Leica and discover how to elevate your photography from snapshots to exhibition-worthy pieces. This updated edition provides invaluable techniques refined over years of experience, presenting a cost-effective alternative to expensive workshops and ensuring you capture decisive moments with confidence.

Hardcover 27.99 USD

Paperback 19.99 USD

4.1 / 15 ratings

Review The Way of the Rangefinder Camera

"The Way of the Rangefinder Camera" by Scott R. Morvay proved to be a surprisingly engaging and helpful resource, though its value depends heavily on your prior photography experience. The book's strength lies in its accessible approach to mastering digital rangefinder photography, specifically with Leica M cameras. Morvay’s clear and friendly writing style makes even complex topics like focusing techniques feel approachable, a quality I greatly appreciated. The step-by-step methodology is effective, breaking down potentially overwhelming concepts into manageable chunks.

I particularly valued the inclusion of QR codes linking to video tutorials. These videos offer a visual complement to the written material, providing a dynamic learning experience that really solidified my understanding of certain techniques. The sections on increasing photo success rates and post-processing tips were especially helpful, offering practical advice that I've already begun implementing in my own photography. The historical overview of Leica cameras added a nice touch, providing context and appreciation for the legacy of this iconic brand.

However, the book's effectiveness isn't universal. As some reviewers have pointed out, the content's value significantly diminishes if you're already a seasoned photographer familiar with rangefinder cameras and their nuances. For someone with prior experience, much of the material might feel repetitive or overly basic. While the book aims to be comprehensive, covering everything from fundamentals to advanced techniques, the balance could be improved. Some reviewers felt the rangefinder-specific content was too minimal, while others found the basic photography explanations lacking in depth. This suggests the book might struggle to completely satisfy both beginner and advanced users simultaneously.

The interactive element, with its QR code links, is a definite plus, but the overall organization could be tighter. Some reviewers mentioned feeling the book lacked a clear structure, making it less efficient to navigate. The quality of the print-on-demand production is also a point to consider; while it might keep costs down, it doesn't necessarily equate to a high-end, visually stunning product.

In summary, "The Way of the Rangefinder Camera" is a valuable tool for photographers new to rangefinders or those seeking a gentle, step-by-step introduction to Leica M cameras. The approachable writing style, helpful video tutorials, and practical tips make it a worthwhile investment for beginners. However, more experienced photographers might find the content too introductory, and the organizational structure could use improvement. Ultimately, whether or not this book is "the way" for you depends on your existing skill level and expectations.

Information

• Dimensions: 6 x 0.19 x 9 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 78
• Part of series: Rangefinder Photography Series
• Publication date: 2024

Book table of contents

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