Synopsis

Ansel Adams (1902-1984) was a pioneer of landscape photography, whose imagery-especially his iconic views of the American National Parks—is widely published and instantly recognizable. While he is undoubtedly one of the best-loved and best-known visionaries of American art, photographers also recognize him as a pioneer of technique, a theoretician, and as one of the great teachers of the craft of photography.

His zone system has been widely adapted, but Adams unique imagery also relied on his determination and application at every stage of the photographic process; he spent years in his darkroom, as well as out in the open air. For decades, this kind of attention to detail required the kind of equipment, time, and facilities that were out of the reach of most photographers—but now, in the digital age, technology has finally made his techniques accessible.

This book will show you what can be learned from Adams working process, and how these lessons can be applied today. The craft of Adams photography is discussed, and the ZONE SYSTEM is related to the digital age. Sections on light, composition, mood, and the darkroom all show what can be achieved today using and understanding his thinking. Michael Frye's own photography provides many stunning examples of the results that can be achieved and, as one of Adams' natural successors in the field, he is well placed to analyze the inspirational shots which open each chapter.

• Demystifies the art behind the iconic shots
• Contains a number of breathtaking works by Ansel Adams and other landscape masters such as Edward Weston and Elliot Porter
• Written by one of the most reputable fine landscape photographers, who (like Ansel Adams) uses Yosemite National Park most frequently as his subject
• Breaks the zone systems (famous to Adams) down in a way that digital photographers can use

Biography

Michael Frye has lived either on or near Yosemite National Park since 1983, and in that time has built up a reputation as one of the most exciting current practioners of fine landscape and nature photography. He has written numerous magazine articles on the art and technique of photography. His work is also featured in Landscape: The World’s Top Photographers. His photographs have been published in over thirty countries around the world; magazine credits include National Wildlife, Outdoor Photographer, American Photo, Sunset, and Texas Highways.