Explore the depths of creativity, artistry, expression, craftsmanship, and philosophy in landscape photography with the captivating "More Than a Rock, 2nd Edition."
This passionately crafted book delves into the world of creativity and self-expression through the lens of over 70 concise essays by photographer and educator Guy Tal. Beyond capturing the mere appearance of subjects, Tal shares his personal experiences as an artist striving to convey a deeper meaning in his images. Building on the success of the first edition, the revised edition features updated imagery, a new essay in each of the book’s four sections—Art, Craft, Experiences, and Meditations—and is elegantly presented in a hardcover format.
Tal makes a compelling case for viewing creative landscape photography as a distinct form of visual art, exploring the photographer’s unique conception through the use of natural aesthetics rather than merely representing beautiful scenes. Covering topics such as the art of photography, approaches to landscape photography, and the experiences of a working photographic artist, the book transcends technical details to focus on philosophy, nature, and visual expression.
With a focus on philosophy, nature, and visual expression, this non-technical masterpiece is tailored for photographers passionate about creative photography. Whether you seek inspiration, pursue photography as an art form, or are intrigued by the perspectives of a full-time photographic artist, this book offers valuable insights. Each page is adorned with Tal’s inspiring and breathtaking photography, visually punctuating the profound reflections within.
“Some images look like things, while others feel like things; some images are of things, while others are about things. A creative image is not a record of a scene nor a substitute for a real experience. Rather, it is an experience in itself—an aesthetic experience—something new that the artist has given the world, rather than a contrived view of something that already existed independent of them.”
—Guy Tal
“The medium of photography has a long tradition of practitioners who were not only masterful photographers but were also insightful and thoughtful writers—the thinking man’s photographers. Among them we find such greats as John Szarkowski, Minor White, Bill Jay, and Robert Adams. It is no exaggeration to include Guy Tal on this esteemed list.”
— From the Foreword, by Chuck Kimmerle