Chances are, if you like photography, you’ve heard of Dan Heller, even if only in passing. Many people have found his photography inspiring, and his insight into the photography business razor sharp. Many more have found the resources available on his website very helpful as they got started in photography. I know I did.

When he recently put out a new book, I purchased it. It’s called “Digital Travel Photography“, and it comes with a handy-dandy companion guide that summarizes the book’s points very nicely. I took my time to read the book, getting through a few chapters per weekend. I’m glad to say I found it useful, and I think you will, too.

It turns out that travel photography isn’t much different than photography you can do right in your own home town, and that’s good. The same principles are involved. The book starts out with basic information such as composition, cameras, batteries, resolution, lenses, flash, ISO, etc, but if you’re a more advanced photographer, don’t get discouraged. It soon gets interesting. Even when he talks about basic principles, Dan finds ways to make the information captivating, and his photos illustrate the points very well. Besides, he goes into more fun stuff like white balance, night shooting, filters, bags, tripods and accessories as well. There’s also a wonderful section on extended exposure photography at the end of the book, and I found this truly useful. Sandwiched in the middle, we get advice on photographing people and places, as well as children, and dealing with various kinds of light and locations.

The book combines information from his extensive online resource library with new material. The content is beautifully laid out and explained in easy to understand language. This isn’t heady reading. Dan makes it as easy as possible to understand the information. If you want to improve the way you take photos when you travel, this book will do it for you. In a few afternoons, you’ll be able to get through the book, and when you go on vacation, packing along the companion guide will ensure that you can quickly review and apply the principles you’ve learned.

And oh yes, let’s not forget that Dan’s photography inspires. He may downplay that aspect and call his photos “average” in interviews, as I’ve heard him do, but the truth is that he is a very accomplished photographer who knows how to nail a scene. You can buy this book only for the photographs, and you won’t be disappointed. Add in the great advice he gives, and you’ve got a bargain.