Best flatbed scanner		Epson Perfection V600 flatbed scanner		SEE IT	The V600 offers excellent scan quality, including technology to remove dust and scratches.
Best professional		Epson Perfection V850 Pro Scanner		SEE IT	A large scanning area and more advanced features make this the pick for high-end users.
Best budget		Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner		SEE IT	The Slide N Scan scans several film types and connects directly to a laptop with a USB cord.

Film scanners help bring the magic of analog photography into the digital world. There’s a look and texture to film photography and video that their digital counterparts can’t capture. However, you can’t deny the ease of editing and sharing digital photos. Enter the film scanner, which converts film images to digital format. Film scanners aren’t just for photography either. There are also film scanners that convert 8 mm and Super 8 film into easily edited and shared MP4s. The best film scanners preserve the look and feel of the original film and make it easier to edit, share, and replicate your work. 

Film scanners come in different sizes, use different technologies, and may only work for certain types of film. Others work with several types of film as well as scan documents and printed photos. Consequently, your chosen film scanner will need to work for the type of film you use as well as offer the quality that works for your purposes. Professionals will need the manual control and versatility of a more expensive film scanner, while hobby photographers don’t need to make the same financial investment. Read on to get the lowdown on the best film scanners, along with tips to help you choose the best film scanner for you.  

• Best flatbed scanner: Epson Perfection V600
• Best negative scanner: Plustek OpticFilm 8300i Ai Film Scanner
• Best for digital video: Wolverine 8mm and Super 8 Film Reel Converter Scanner
• Best professional: Epson Perfection V850 Pro Scanner
• Best budget: Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner

How we chose the best film scanners

Since there are different types and sizes of film scanners, we aimed to choose a wide selection that would fit the needs of most people. Beyond that, we looked at features such as maximum resolution, supported formats, usability, durability, and speed. We also picked scanners at a range of price points in order to make film scanning more approachable.

The best film scanners: Reviews & Recommendations

Scanning your film not only allows you to share your results in the digital world but it also gives you a backup in case something damages your negatives. Here are our favorite film scanners for a range of users and applications.

Best flatbed scanner: Epson Perfection V600

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Specs

• Scanner type: Flatbed
• Resolution: Up to 6,400 dpi
• Formats supported: 35mm, mounted slides, 120 up to 6 x 22

Pros

• Relatively affordable
• Versatile since it can also scan prints and documents
• Quicker than some dedicated film scanners
• Included software is decent
• LED light source doesn’t need to warm up, uses less electricity than older models

Cons

• Film holders are a bit flimsy
• Loud

The Epson V600 features 6400dpi optical resolution that’s high enough for film and print scans. It works for 35mm film, 35mm slides, and medium format film and completes a scan in 21 seconds. That’s not the quickest scan speed, but it’s a great balance of speed and scan quality. This Epson also features Digital ICE Technology that removes dust and scratches for cleaner scans.

This is a great option if you’re shooting film semi-regularly, but you’d also like some flexibility. Take out the film holder and insert the opaque pad in order to make this into a useful print and document scanner.

The LED light source doesn’t need to warm up like older versions of these scanners. Plus, the included software makes scanning relatively simple if you don’t want to use something more complex like Silverfast or Vuescan (though, we’re particularly fond of Vuescan).

Best negative scanner: Plustek OpticFilm 8300i Ai Film Scanner

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Specs

• Scanner type: Dedicated film scanner
• Resolution: Up to 7200 dpi
• Formats supported: 35mm strips and mounted slides

Pros

• Very sharp, vibrant scans
• Includes a copy of SilverFast Ai Studio which is expensive on its own
• Easy to line up and insert film
• Relatively automated process
• Built-in infrared channel for dust removal

Cons

• No medium format compatibility
• Pricey

The Plustek OpticFilm 8300i AI includes a 7200dpi optical resolution (although max resolution scans can take up to two minutes). This model is more specific in what it scans, which includes only 35mm film and 35mm mounted slides. However, the Plustek stands out for the included software, SilverFast 9 Ai studio. This software lets you preview, adjust settings, and share and organize files without connecting to additional programs. Most scanners of this type max out at 35mm film, but some more expensive models will accept medium format.

This is a more professional option for people who shoot a lot of 35mm. It comes with Silverfast software, which is very advanced and requires a bit of practice. With some work, though, it provides excellent sharpness, dynamic range, and color.

A built-in infrared channel makes this scanner considerably better at automatically removing dust and scratches than a typical scanner. Plus, it’s easy to insert the film into the surprisingly sturdy holders without having to fuss around like you would with a flat bed.

Best for digital video: Wolverine 8mm and Super 8 Film Reel Converter Scanner

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Specs

• Scanner type: Film strip
• Resolution: 720p
• Formats supported: 8 and Super 8

Pros

• Saves movies to removable media
• Easy to set up
• Relatively quick
• Can play back old film movies on a TV via HDMI

Cons

• Expensive if you only have a few films to convert

The Wolverine 8mm and Super 8 Film Reel Converter Scanner fits 8 mm and Super 8 reels up to 5 inches in diameter and converts them into MP4 format. The MP4s are saved onto a removable SD SDHC card (that’s not included with the scanner). The Wolverine can also connect to a TV using an HDMI cord for playback. The scanning and conversion process is fairly slow, but if you have a lot of film to convert, this model is far more affordable than having the scanning done professionally.

Best professional: Epson Perfection V850 Pro Scanner

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Specs

• Scanner type: Flatbed
• Resolution: Up to 6,400 dpi
• Formats supported: 35mm, mounted slides, 120, 4×5

Pros

• Large scanning area makes quick work of multiple frames
• Included film holders include anti-Newton ring glass for better resolution without artifacts
• Can scan up to 4×5 images, including a wet mount option (only in the 850, not the 800)
• Included software is passable
• Dedicated infrared channel for dust removal

Cons

• Loud
• Bulky

The Epson Perfection V850 comes with a high price tag, but that’s because it includes premium features and extras. It includes film holders for 35mm mounted slides, 35mm film, medium format strips, and 4 x 5 sheet film. You can also run the scanner without using one of the holders. This model features a dual-lens system that includes high-resolution and super high-resolution lenses and automatically adjusts them based on the scanning media and resolution selection.

This has been my primary film scanner for several years now, and I’ve learned its quirks. The film holders are decent but require some finagling to get the film to lay perfectly flat. The ANR glass in the holders helps keep them off of the scanner surface itself, which is nice, but curly film can be tricky to get settled.

The 800 and the 850 are both capable of large-format film scanning. I’ve used the 800 to scan 4×5 negatives with solid results. The 850 comes with a fluid-mounting kit that makes large-format scanning much more effective. It also takes a lot more work.

You’ll occasionally run into dust issues that create solid-colored lines across the images, but it’s easily fixed with a quick wipe of the glass. You’ll just have to scan the negatives again, which can be annoying.

Best budget: Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner

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Specs

• Scanner type: Negative scanner
• Resolution: 22 megapixels
• Formats supported: 35mm, 110, and 126

Pros

• Very easy to use
• Preview screen makes stand-alone scanning simple
• Relatively quick
• Quiet
• Stores images on removable media or sends straight to a computer

Cons

• Image quality is just OK
• Expect to do some tidying of the scans if your negatives aren’t meticulously clean

The Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner includes holders for 50 x 50 hinged slides, 135 film, 126 film, and 110 film. It can also scan 35mm negatives and slides. Scans go quickly, taking only a few seconds, and they’re transferred directly to a laptop or computer via a USB cord. You can make a few adjustments to the negatives, but this model won’t correct most problems, especially film damage that comes from age.

At less than $200, it doesn’t take many rolls of film to justify the price of this device when you compare it to many image-scanning services. It also works with unusual formats (at least for today), like 126 and 110. So, if you have particularly old film hanging around, this is a simple way to digitize.

Don’t expect meticulous scans. The quality is decent but nowhere near what you’d get out of a more advanced film scanner. You’re also on your own for cleaning up the negatives before scanning unless you want to spend a lot of time retouching out dust and other objects once the scan is done.

Still, you’d be hard-pressed to find a simpler, more convenient solution for scanning old photos.

What to consider when shopping for the best film scanners

Shooting film is exciting, and it provides a look that can’t quite be replicated with digital. But you’ll want to digitize those results with a scanner in order to share the images and to keep them safely backed up in case something happens to the negatives.

The best film scanners capture the light, shadows, and colors of the original film with accuracy and clarity. When choosing, you need to be cognizant of the type of film you intend to scan and what you plan to do with the scans. Film scanners come in one of three basic types—flatbed, dedicated film scanners (also known as transparency or slide scanners), and drum scanners. 

Drum scanners provide the best scan quality. However, they’re expensive, difficult to find, and the scanning process takes a long time. For that reason, they’re not on our list since, unless you’re looking to start your own professional film scanning business, this type isn’t economical or practical. For reference, they can cost well over $10,000.

Flatbed scanners (often) offer a versatile range of uses.

If you’ve ever seen a standard photo scanner, you’ll recognize a flatbed film scanner. These models feature a clear, glass bed with a lid. You lift the lid, place the film, and start scanning. Most typical flatbed scanners have a single light source that goes under the document. Flatbeds that scan film, however, have another light source in the lid to illuminate the negatives or slides. They work by passing light through the image, which then gets reflected back to the CCD image sensor. The CCD uses red, green, and blue filters like old-school digital cameras.

These models often can work with several different formats like 35mm, slides, or format film. You will have to adjust settings based on the type of film being scanned. However, the biggest perk of a flatbed scanner is that they’re usually multifunctional, scanning developed photos and documents for digital use, too. They are popular and versatile, but some can be difficult to use, requiring setting adjustments with each scan. 

Capture deeper darks and lighter lights with a negative scanner

Negative scanners, also called slide scanners, apply the same principles as flatbed scanners but with greater precision and focus. They use a narrow beam of light that passes through the film to better replicate light intensity and color differences. These models also feature a feed that moves frames through the scanner for you. How many frames the scanner holds varies by the make and model. 

The downside with this type is that the mechanism that moves the film through the scanner can potentially scratch the film if it’s not cleaned and carefully maintained. They’re also often slow and sometimes rely on finicky software.

Photo and slide negatives aren’t the only film in need of scanning

Gone are the days when you need a projector and video camera to convert your old reels into digital format. Film scanners designed for movie reels can now do it for you. These models convert 8mm and Super 8 film reels into digital videos, which can then be edited or shared. 

These machines feature a screen to watch the film in action before and during the recording process. Some models connect to a TV via HDMI for instant playback. Each machine only fits reels of certain sizes, so check to make sure that the reels you have are compatible with the ones you are looking at. While these machines do a great job of transferring visual media, they do not have the capability to record sound. If there’s audio with your movie, you’ll have to add that in using a program or app later on.

The professional needs photography equipment that can keep up with high demand

Professionals and photographers who regularly use film may want to invest in a film scanner with a few extras. Professional-grade scanners typically offer higher resolutions, multiple lenses for greater versatility, and software that expands what you can do while scanning and with the scans once they’re done. 

Professional-grade models also include film holders of different sizes to accommodate a wider range of film types.

Save your photos and cash with a budget film scanner that’s gentle on film. What do you get for a film scanner under $75?

Many film scanners require an upfront investment, though they’ll save money in the end if you’ve got a high volume of film to scan. However, hobby photographers may not need many of the fancy extras like dual lenses and multiple film holders. 

The biggest difference you’ll notice between these scanners and more expensive models is the scan quality. Budget models may fit several film types, but they typically scan slower and offer lower resolutions with minimal correction options. They’re best for preserving film that won’t come under professional scrutiny.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best film scanners

• Best flatbed scanner: Epson Perfection V600
• Best negative scanner: Plustek OpticFilm 8300i Ai Film Scanner
• Best for digital video: Wolverine 8mm and Super 8 Film Reel Converter Scanner
• Best professional: Epson Perfection V850 Pro Scanner
• Best budget: Kodak Slide N Scan Film and Slide Scanner

The best film scanner can take what’s old and make it new. They can also give you the power to easily edit and share the results of your current film work. Determine a budget and the scan quality that fits your goals. Whether that’s a slide scanner or flatbed will depend on the type of film you use and what you plan to do with your film once it’s in a digital format. But, the right film scanner can become a go-to among your camera equipment, saving money and giving you the ability to share your work with the world. 

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best film scanners of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best compatibility		AVer U50 Document Camera		SEE IT	Easy to set up and works with Microsoft, Google, and Apple.
Most versatile		IPEVO VZ-X Document Camera		SEE IT	Provides up to 12 hours of viewing on battery power.
Best budget		OKIOLABS OKIO CAM S 2-in-1 Document Camera		SEE IT	Doubles as a webcam and stores easily.

Despite the name, document cameras aren’t only used for taking photos of documents. Sure, that’s one use for them, but they’ve actually become a classroom staple as many schools and businesses now use virtual platforms. Teachers and presenters use the best document cameras to project an image of their documents onto a larger surface or a laptop to screen share on a conference call. They’re also a valuable tool for virtual meetings where one person needs to show or demonstrate to everyone else in the meeting. 

There are a few things to think about before you buy. Compatibility, portability, and extra features like split-screen and a remote should be on your mind. Image quality should factor in too. In some cases, you’ll need pristine quality, and in others, a little fuzziness won’t make much of a difference. It’s all in how and what you use the document camera for. Our guide will help you determine which features you need and includes a list of the best document cameras for the classroom or professional presentations. 

• Best portable: INSWAIN INS-1 Document Camera 
• Best compatibility: AVer U50 Document Camera
• Best dim light performance: IPEVO Ultra High Definition Document Camera
• Most versatile: IPEVO VZ-X Document Camera
• Best budget: OKIOLABS OKIO CAM S 2-in-1 Document Camera

The best document cameras: Reviews & Recommendations

Best portable: INSWAIN INS-1 USB Document Camera

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The INSWAIN INS-1 USB Document Camera is designed for presentations on the go. It has its own USB light and anti-glare sheet to increase visibility when lighting conditions aren’t ideal. Three-joint adjustability helps you get a good angle and lets the camera pack down smaller when traveling. Autofocus helps ease transitions when you zoom in and out. Finally, the built-in microphone lets it act as an all-purpose audio/video device for presentations, saving you time and storage space. 

Best compatibility: AVer U50 Document Camera

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The AVer U50 Document Camera features a simple interface that’s compatible with Microsoft, Apple, and Google products. It also offers a pretty easy setup. All you do is plug in the USB cord to the device, and it’s up and running. This model includes a built-in microphone and light for improved visibility and audio when conditions aren’t ideal. The arm adjusts height and angle so you can move in as close as needed. The AVer’s two modes let you share a livestream or take still photos.

Best dim light performance: IPEVO Ultra High-Definition Document Camera

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The IPEVO document camera includes a Sony CMOS image sensor that reduces noise and reproduces accurate colors when lights are low. This model can keep up image quality for live streams or take still photos for sharing during presentations. The setup instructions aren’t the best, but once you’ve granted the camera permission through your device, control and adjustments are intuitive.

Most versatile: IPEVO VZ-X Document Camera

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The IPEVO VZ-X Document Camera brings a lot to the table, literally. The battery offers 9 to 12 hours of continuous operation with no cords, decluttering desks and conference tables. Through the USB cord, it can connect to several different display devices, such as a projector, Apple TV, and iOS or Android devices. The stand includes controls like rotating, zooming in, and various filters. Dim lighting won’t slow it down either because it has the Sony CMOS image sensor plus the Amarelle integrated system-on-a-chip to reduce noise and improve focus speeds.

Best budget: OKIOLABS OKIO CAM S 2-in-1 Document Camera

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The OKIOLABS OKIO CAM features a fold-out base for stability and dual uses. The head swivels to the front so that you can use it as a webcam in addition to a document camera. The OKIO folds down for easy storage and portability and weighs less than a pound. It’s compatible with many of the most popular recording and conferencing tools and apps like Zoom and QuickTime player. A few apps come with the camera to jumpstart its use, too.

The best document cameras are essential for school and office

Document cameras have largely replaced overhead projectors as the go-to classroom presentation/lesson device. As everyone has been forced to do more virtually, businesses have also taken advantage of the best document cameras to stay in touch with clients and customers. 

These cameras come in different designs, from small portable models that don’t require a laptop to ceiling-mounted arms that zoom in tight for clearer images. Features can include everything from split-screen capabilities and scanners to wireless connectivity and multiple compatibility options. 

Elementary school teachers may want a portable model that can move around the room (and won’t cost a fortune to replace if little hands knock it over). However, if presentations are part of your business model, a feature-heavy model will offer more connectivity and presentation options. 

What you present makes a difference too. Image clarity varies from model to model. Those who need to share their own writing, like when teaching a math class or other similar detail work, will need better image quality than someone who’s sharing less detailed work.  

Do you want a camera that’s portable?

Some teachers get to stay in place when they work, but others lug their equipment from room to room or work to home every night. A portable document camera lets you go where you need to go without weighing you down. Portable models often feature wireless connectivity or a USB cord that connects the camera to a laptop or charging device for easier mobile use. 

The camera’s arm may collapse for compact transport and storage, and it may come with a carrying case to protect it in a backpack or briefcase. These models also feature lightweight designs. They may, however, be light on extra features like zoom capacity, field of view options, or a remote control.

The best document camera helps you take advantage of learning resources

Document cameras have to be compatible with software, apps, and operating systems when used with laptops or other technology. Some cameras are picky about operating systems and apps. One that’s compatible with a wide range of operating systems is more likely to work well with the software and apps that are also compatible with those operating systems. 

Microsoft, Apple, and Google (Chrome) are the top spots when it comes to operating systems, though some people may also use a Linux system. A camera that’s compatible with all three (or even better, four) can work with the wide variety of technology found in today’s homes, classrooms, and businesses.

The best document cameras can make images pop in a dark space

All cameras—document, digital, or otherwise—need adequate light to show images clearly. Projecting an image onto a large screen keeps students engaged and enhances learning, but most rooms require dim light for the projected image to show up well for students. Additionally, some rooms don’t have adequate lighting for a clear video feed. 

A document camera with a built-in light keeps your area of focus lit and clear on the big screen even if the lighting conditions in the room are dim. Some models include multiple lights, while others have one that always points toward the camera’s subject. These lights can save you from buying separate lights and from the frustration of poor document visibility.

The best document cameras are designed with versatile connectivity options

Document cameras can connect via USB, USB-C, wireless (Bluetooth or WiFi), and other connection methods like HDMI. Obviously, the more connectivity options the camera has, the easier it is to use. Some models work with a USB cord or wireless connection. Wireless options untether you from a desk or table, so you can use the camera when and where you need it most. If you get a model with wireless capabilities, check the battery life. Most presentations don’t go over an hour, but models with a 5-10 hour battery life will make sure you’ve got plenty of battery power. 

Connectivity isn’t completely separated from compatibility either. Different connectivity options may be enhanced by compatibility. For example, a wireless document camera that can work with Apple and Microsoft products may be of more use for those who work from an office and home, where they may have different operating systems in each location. 

A limited budget doesn’t mean you can’t get a camera with decent quality.

Document cameras under $75 may be missing some of the fancier features like split screens and remotes, but they can still offer versatile uses and decent images. Some may include a built-in light and microphone. They don’t typically offer as many connectivity or compatibility options as more expensive models. Before you purchase a less expensive model, make sure it will work with the other technology at your disposal. Finally, don’t expect crystal-clear images with less expensive cameras. This is an instance where you get what you pay for.

FAQs

Final shopping tips when buying the best document cameras

Visuals communicate in ways that words alone can’t. Lessons and presentations get a boost when they include the best document camera. When students or clients can see your presentation happening in real-time, explanations become clear, plans come into focus, and your goals get achieved. Before buying, decide on a budget and what extras you need.  Keep compatibility and connectivity at the top of your priority list, too. The right camera will enhance your use of your favorite apps and should work with the technology you use most. 

The post The best document cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best overall		The Essence of Photography, 2nd Edition: Seeing and Creativity		SEE IT	This book serves as both a helpful instructional tool and beautiful coffee table book.
Best historical photos		Popular Photography: The World’s Most Iconic Photographs		SEE IT	This fascinating book shares photographs that had a significant impact on our world.
The Photographer’s Guide to Posing: Techniques to Flatter Everyone		Best for posing		SEE IT	Portrait photographers will benefit greatly from this posing guide.

Photography books can be powerful tools. They can teach you to capture your favorite moments, provide tips on sparking creativity, or show you some of the most memorable moments in history. And they can make great gifts if you’re looking to encourage someone’s interest or spark a new one. Of course, photography books span many categories. You’ll need a different book if you’re growing your photography skills rather than simply enjoying beautiful photographs. As a result, we’ve selected a range of instructional books and those that act as conversation starters and let you appreciate the beauty of photography. No matter what kind of book you’re looking for, the best photography books should inspire and educate.

• Best overall: The Essence of Photography, 2nd Edition: Seeing and Creativity
• Best for inspiration: Behind the Camera: Creative Techniques of 100 Great Photographers
• Best for beginners: Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs of People
• Best for food photographers: The Food Stylist’s Handbook
• Best historical photos: Popular Photography: The World’s Most Iconic Photographs
• Best photo history: A World History of Photography
• Best for composition: The Photographer’s Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos
• Best for posing: The Photographer’s Guide to Posing: Techniques to Flatter Everyone
• Best for lighting: Light ― Science & Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting
• Best technical book for beginners: Digital Photography Complete Course

Methodology: How we picked the best photography books

Photography is a broad book topic. To pick the best of the best, we considered the purpose of the book. You can think of photography books as coming from two distinct categories: Instructional and recreational. Instructional books teach the reader how to improve their photography skills. Recreational books let you browse beautiful photographs. Many recreational photography books also give you a history of the photographer or the photo’s subject. 

We also considered the book’s quality. We looked at the quality of the photos in the book and the instructional content. And lastly, we prioritized the source of the material. World-renowned photographers willing to share their expertise with others make great sources, as do publications and outlets specializing in photography. We made sure to select books written and compiled by credible, well-respected sources within the industry.

The best photography books: Reviews & recommendations

Whether you’re searching for a collection of famous photographs, a themed book covering the history of the medium, or even an instructional manual to inspire and educate, there is a broad range of books to choose from. Here are some of our favorites.

Best overall: The Essence of Photography, 2nd Edition: Seeing and Creativity

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The Essence of Photography: Seeing and Creativity straddles the line between an instructional and recreational book. It teaches photographers how to define and bring their own style to their photography. Using over 100 photographs as samples and inspiration, Bruce Barnbaum explores how and why powerful photos go beyond light, composition, and other principles of photography.

This book acts as inspiration for beginning photographers and is helpful for intermediate and experts in search of inspiration. Folks looking for a book to grace their coffee table can even enjoy it for the beautiful photographs and inspirational text. However, some readers may be disappointed if they’re looking for a strictly instructive book. There’s little technical information, with the author assuming good technique and technical know-how are already in the photographer’s skill set.

Best for inspiration: Behind the Camera: Creative Techniques of 100 Great Photographers

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In the same vein as the above book, Behind the Camera looks at example photographs in order to offer inspiration and knowledge. Author Paul Lowe breaks the book up into different thematic sections, including “Places,” “Faces,” “Stories,” “Ideas,” and “Moments.” No matter what type of photography you enjoy, you’ll find something helpful in this book.

Lowe pulls from photographic works by famous photographers such as Julia Margaret Cameron, Joel Meyerowitz, Walker Evans, Cindy Sherman, Nan Goldin, Weegee, Man Ray, and Robert Capa. Through these sample photos, he considers the photographers’ technique, strategies, and vision. He not only celebrates their creative work but distills lessons from each piece that the budding photographer can work into their practice. Part coffee-table book, part textbook, it’s a great place to start or go back to for ideas. Both beginners and experts alike will appreciate this book, whether it be for the insights and inspiration it provides or simply the collection of incredible photographs held within.

Best for beginners: Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs of People

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The title of this book says it all. It focuses on portrait photography and draws on the works of masters like Richard Avedon, William Klein, Cindy Sherman, and others. The book speaks plainly about the art form, with an emphasis on real takeaways for those looking to learn photography. Beyond just posing tips, Read This If You Want To Take Great Photographs of People touches on composition, working with color and black and white, and imbuing your portraits with meaning. It even touches on lighting to help take your portraits to another level.

This book is best for those who have a basic understanding of photographic fundamentals. But beyond that, it can serve as an inspirational tool for both novices and experienced photographers alike.

Best for food photographers: The Food Stylist’s Handbook

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As the title implies, this is a handbook of food photography. It provides suggestions designed to give the reader practical advice on taking delicious images. Taking tips from well-known photographers from the advertising and culinary worlds, The Food Stylist’s Handbook: Hundreds of Media Styling Tips, Tricks, and Secrets for Chefs, Artists, Bloggers, and Food Lovers is something that a food photographer will reach for again and again as they hone their craft.

Best historical photos: Popular Photography: The World’s Most Iconic Photographs

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Popular Photography: The Most Iconic Photographs in History takes readers on a journey through 200 years of photographic history. From the first photo ever taken to world-changing moments captured on film, this book explores human history and how it’s been influenced by the ability to save those moments in pictures. And the informative commentary provides context as to why each photo still has an impact today. This is an excellent book for the coffee table. You can flip through it while relaxing or use it as a conversation starter when company comes.

Best photo history: A World History of Photography

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For those looking to learn more about the beginnings and progression of photography, A World History of Photography is one of the best resources available. There’s a reason it is the book of choice for many college photography history courses. 

This book goes much more in-depth than the Popular Photography book mentioned above, making it ideal for those serious about learning. It covers a wide variety of photographic genres and photographers, including portraiture, documentation, advertising, and photojournalism. And it even examines the contemporary perspective, making it well-rounded and thorough.

A World History of Photography even has a section just on the technical history of photography, so you can learn about how cameras and photographic technologies were developed over time. It does lean towards textbook style, which some may not enjoy. But there’s a massive selection of photographs included, so it is also a worthy coffee table book or one to skim through casually.

Best for composition: The Photographer’s Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos

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The Photographer’s Eye is a popular book written by Michael Freeman, a well-respected photographer whose work has appeared in Smithsonian magazine, Reader’s Digest, and Time-Life Books. Readers delve into the importance of exploring the location to identify angles and lighting beyond the obvious. It helps readers develop their creative eye and bring it to life, encouraging them to look and think about unusual and interesting shots.

While it does cover traditional in-camera composition, it leans toward digital photography. That may or may not be a con depending on your preferred media.

Best for posing: The Photographer’s Guide to Posing: Techniques to Flatter Everyone

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Lindsay Adler is both a fashion photographer and photography educator, giving her unique insight into the subject matter. The book covers posing basics while also addressing the specific posing needs of different subject matter. For example, it provides tips for photographing curvy women, maternity photos, family photos, and small groups. The author also offers her own go-to poses as starting places for those key shoots. 

The book’s beginning even details how the camera sees and how that may impact portraiture. And Adler touches on specific body parts, breaking down posing into easily digestible chunks. Be aware that this book contains some artistic nudity.

Best for lighting: Light ― Science & Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting

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Lighting is a powerful tool that can dramatically change your images. Whether working with portraiture, events, or product photography, it can significantly elevate your work. But, it can be a challenging skill to master due to how technical it is. This book provides a very detailed approach to lighting, even including a “comprehensive theory of the nature and principles of light.”

Light ― Science & Magic provides lighting examples for a variety of situations and subject matter, such as metal, glass, liquids, and, of course, portraiture. It offers diagrams, example photographs, and set-by-step instructions. The authors thoroughly explain each lighting scenario so that you can put them into practice. It is a robust resource that every photographer working with lights should have on their shelf.

Best technical book for beginners: Digital Photography Complete Course

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The Digital Photography Complete Course offers beginners everything they need to get started with their digital camera. It’s broken down into 20 weekly lessons, making the content highly digestible for anyone and everyone. Those lessons even include assignments and assessments to check skills development as you go.

The book covers the basics, like understanding f-stops, ISO, and exposure on the digital camera. The layout includes diagrams, text boxes, examples, and pictures to add visual interest. Keep in mind that intermediate to advanced photographers will find little to enhance their skills with this one. It’s truly an introductory book designed for beginners to go from “What’s a camera?” to taking their own manually-adjusted photos.

Things to consider when buying the best photography books

Purpose

Photography books can generally be categorized into two groups — instructional and recreational. Instructional books are pretty self-explanatory. They teach you how to take photographs or improve specific skills.

Basic photography books may teach you how to use a digital camera or cover the seven principles of design — pattern, contrast, emphasis, rhythm and movement, balance, and unity. Some books briefly cover all seven, while others focus on a single principle or sub-topic within a principle, like composure or lighting.

Beginners should start with a basic book that covers the main photography topics. Then, as you become more skilled, a specialized book that focuses on a single technique or principle can help you add depth to your skills.

Recreational books include coffee table books that offer a visual feast. They’re a great way to appreciate some of the world’s best photographs or for you to enjoy your favorite topic. For example, there are photography books for landscapes, barns, pets, and people. These books aren’t instructional in nature. You can simply enjoy the beauty they provide and enjoy the text that accompanies them, which may explain the subject or the photographer.

Author’s authority

Do a little research into the book’s author or publisher. A photography book written by a chef doesn’t hold much credit unless they’re teaching you about food photography and know the photographic medium well.

Look for photographers who specialize in their topic, like a fashion photographer who publishes a book on posing or lighting. Organizations that specialize in photography in some way are also valid, credible sources.

Quality

Consider the quality of both the photos and the instruction and how well they fit your goals. If you don’t love landscapes, Ansel Adams probably isn’t for you, even if the photos are top quality. Similarly, a book about taking landscapes may not interest you if you want to take family portraits.

FAQs

Related: Here’s a list of even more books that every photographer should own

Final thoughts on the best photography books

• Best overall: The Essence of Photography, 2nd Edition: Seeing and Creativity
• Best for inspiration: Behind the Camera: Creative Techniques of 100 Great Photographers
• Best for beginners: Read This If You Want to Take Great Photographs of People
• Best for food photographers: The Food Stylist’s Handbook
• Best historical photos: Popular Photography: The World’s Most Iconic Photographs
• Best photo history: A World History of Photography
• Best for composition: The Photographer’s Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos
• Best for posing: The Photographer’s Guide to Posing: Techniques to Flatter Everyone
• Best for lighting: Light ― Science & Magic: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting
• Best technical book for beginners: Digital Photography Complete Course

Photography is a widely appreciated art form, and thanks to digital technology it’s become more and more accessible to more people. Budding photographers have a much easier way to test the waters and find their style without the burden of expensive film development costs or equipment. There are also overwhelming resources both online and in books to help guide them as they learn photography, so grab one of the best photography books from our selection and start them on their journey.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

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