New Riders Publishing

Design by nature; using universal forms and principles in design.

This interesting and colorful volume on design explores the natural environment as inspiration and instructional aid, providing critical analysis of form, color, texture and composition as drawn from the world outside. The work discusses both theory and practice, and provides practical exercises and detailed sidebars on key elements of visual design. Numerous full color illustrations and technical drawings support the text. Macnab teaches design theory at the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. (Annotation ©2011 Book News Inc. Portland, OR)

Photographically speaking; a deeper look at creating stronger images.

duChemin, an assignment photographer specializing in humanitarian projects and world photography, explains how to create stronger photographs by aligning them with a vision that consists of a thought or feeling. He introduces key concepts such as intent; the elements of visual language, such as lines, repetition, light, and contrast; and decisions in framing, placement, optics, focus, and exposure. He then illustrates these concepts through 20 of his photos. (Annotation ©2011 Book News Inc. Portland, OR)