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| Scott, I purchased your book Studio Lighting Made Simple. I just want to tell you thanks, BIG THANKS. I have a shelf full of photography books many of which are on the topic of lighting. If I would have found your book first I would have saved a great deal of time and money. In fact so many books I have carpal tunnel of the eyes ;-)… I highly recommend this book to any and all photographers new or pros, everyone can learn from it. Your writing style and your obvious sincerity make this an easy book to read and understand. Your technique is extremely effective and simple just as the title says. Other books confuse the reader with technical jargon and just do not explain the process in a clear and concise method. I am too busy to try and learn the science of light; I just want to make it work for me. Well I am on my second trip through your book (it’s like a great movie needs to be seen more then once) and my confidence level is WAY up. I can see that my equipment cost is going to slow way down which will increase my profit margin. Scott I could go on and on about how much I have learned from your book and how it has made my life so much easier but you have more books to write (I HOPE) hint hint. Looking forward to the wedding Book I just ordered and the rest in your series. Keep up the great work and don’t let life’s blows get you down, my prayers are with you and your daughter God Bless Jon A. Topeka, Kansas PS: if you have a mailing list PLEASE put me on it. |
| Dear Scott: I just finished reading your wonderful book on lighting. You really have made it simple to understand. I wish I had never bought all those glossy books from the book store. Lots of pretty pictures and pretty much nothing that I could actually use to improve my lighting skills. Now I am clearly on the right track thanks to you. My only regret is that I forgot to ask you to autograph the book before you shipped it to me. Oh, well.....I will get you to autograph the next book that I buy from you. Thanks for your great web site, your great method of teaching and for the time and energy you have saved me with your great book. Best regards, Reginald Brown |
| Scott, I truly appreciate your no-nonsense help. I purchased your Lighting book while stationed in Germany about two years ago. I called you from there and, though in between engagements, you took the time to talk to me. With your book, before having any equipment at all..........I had a clue what I was looking for. I can't thank you enough for always making time for those of us who cannot afford to be pros but are conscientious about our outcomes. Your book has given me a feeling of some competence, though I'm at the beginning stages. Jim |
| Hi Scott! I just wanted to tell you how much i enjoyed the books. I wish I had read them 4 or 5 years ago [I would have saved a bundle on recommended equipment]. I am just a part time photographer who loves to do glamour & boudoir. Once again, great books Thanks, Edward Langlois |
| Scott, I receive the book of "Studio Lighting Made Simple" last week. It is a great book. Thanks a lot for signing it for me. It was very nice to talk with you in the phone. I like your web site very much. Best Regards, Xiao(Tony) Xu |
| Scott: Your Boudoir book is great! I've read through it at least twice now. Again, FANTASTIC BOOK!!!! Can't wait till the posing guide comes out! Mark |
| I ordered your lighting book a few months
ago. I believe it is the best lighting book in the
market, and I cannot wait for your posing book. Amanda Grantham |
| Hi Scott
: Had a nice chat on the phone with Becky while ordering the lighting book. I've gone through it and it - is - AWESOME! Thank you so much for that info. And I really appreciate your easy to understand way of putting things...what a breath of fresh air! Kinda tired of all the heady jargon that most text books use and never make any way of letting us know why to do something a certain way as you do. I'm in Germany now serving the US armed forces with a little family studio. Now after 5 years under my belt I find your book and learn all this great stuff I could have been using all along...DUH! Your Web page is top notch too. Do you do your own web page? Where can I see more of your award winning work as I really enjoy (and learn from) looking at your images? Well thanks again for your fine service and keep up the good work. I will be in touch for sure to get some of your other books. Best wishes to both of you. Sincerely, Kevin Tessier |
| Scott: I ordered your book awhile back and was completely thrilled and I was quite impressed with myself after I put your suggestions into practice. So many other books approach lighting as if you already "knew it all". Your book didn't make me feel stupid, rather it made me feel "enlightened"! I have 2 weddings coming up in June and I will be ordering your book on Weddings. I was impressed with your bio, and appreciate the way you give God credit for seeing you through your times of sadness. ( As a matter of fact, that was what led me to purchase your book). Keep up the good work! You're a great teacher! Thanks, Sue Immel "In Focus" in Kentucky |
| Ok first things
first. Your Lighting book, it's cool, it's awesome, it's
my bible.. I just got done reading it and I am starting
to practice. Thanks for a truly spectacular book.. You
are my idol, do you mind if I worship you?? Humza Yasin |
| Scott I would just like to say thank you. First for answering your own phone. That was a real treat to get to talk to you instead of just just someone taking orders. You answered my questions and gave me some good advise. I took your advise and returned the Novatron 240 fun kit and purchased a 63-V-600-3c kit. I'm glad I talked to you before it was too late. But the best thing was ordering your studio lighting book. Wow! What a lot of great information. Information I was unable to get from all the books I have read and the people I have talked to. The book was so easy to follow, in fact I read it the first night and a great deal of it again the next morning. I then typed a note sheet with some of the information I got from your book to use as a guide. I will keep it in the case with my strobe lights. I realize I will still have to experiment a little to get it down right, but at least I have a good start. All the other books I have read gave me no start at all. Not even a clue. My daughter's friend is getting married and has very little money. She asked if I would take some announcement pictures of her and her husband to be. I jumped on it. Before I read your book, I would have not had the confidence to do it. I am looking forward to purchasing some more of your books and the panel kit and the gel kit in the future. I hope to see you get your posing book out soon. Thanks again Larry |
| Scott, Purchased your lighting book and read it in one evening. Couldn't put it down! I will read it again AFTER adjusting my lights! Something that never occurred to me. I'm going to follow the book exactly with all of the examples and "adjustments" that I should have done a long time ago....hey, nobody told me! By the way, do you pay for all of the film and the processing to get my equipment just right? Just kidding....but I do wish these basic "first" things had been shown to me before all of the wasted time and film. I will be studying your book for a good while and again I Thank You. Money well spent. Sincerely, George Wyatt Amarillo, Texas |
| Dear Mr. Smith: I recently ordered and read your Diffusion panel and Studio Lighting Made Simple and your Wedding Book. I must say that both of these were no doubt the most informative works I have found to date. your diffusion panel was also a great improvement. I have learned more from your books than a thousand rools of film have taught me. Thanking you in advance Clarence Peters Indianapolis In |
| Dear Scott: I received your book, Studio Lighting Made Simple. a few days ago. Thank you for the prompt service. Waiting for the chapter on Digital was a wise choice for me. I read the first 65 pages the first day I received it. Then day before yesterday I read the rest of the book. I couldn't put it down. You are a great teacher and present the material in a wonderful way. Thank you for your insight into using what is available to make great portraits. I really appreciate your book and will probably be ordering some of the others in the not too distant future. Thanks again. Zu Carpenter |
| Hi Scott Outstanding lighting book. First book I read that kept it simple and made me feel like I could create spectacular photos. Look forward to using the diffusion panels and can't wait to purchase your other books. Bob Pocius |
| Dear Scott: I can't wait to get my books that I ordered today and wanted to ask if it's not too late for you to sign them for me. I would really appreciate it. I also wanted to thank you for all the time you spent with me on the phone. I don't know how you do it. Your web site is my favorite to visit and I thank you for all you share with those of us who are trying to learn about making good portraits. Yours truly, Linda Gibson |
| Scott, Have been studing your book Studio Lighting Made Simple, and I must say it is the best I've read on the subject. After reading and studing my text books and any other books I could come up with on lighting, I was left confused and frustrated. Seldom getting the results that I expected to see on my prints. Your book though has made it so much easier to understand how to get the results I'm looking for. I must say though, I've highlighed so much stuff in it, it looks like a coloring book. Thanks for sharing your knowledge, Rodney Day Stinnett, Texas |
| To:Scott Just a note of thanks for your excellent book on Studio Lighting. As a photography instructor I thought I'd read all the excellent books on studio lighting but your book is by the far the best for explaining what is and should be a fairly simple process. Your explanation of the inverse square law was the finest I have yet to read. Thank you so much for an outstanding job. Above all, I appreciate the courtesy and respect you gave me when I called. I've noticed the same respect with people that have asked you questions....even the questions that may appear somewhat simple. The world needs more people with attitudes like yours. Have a great new year! J. F. Wiemer |
| Scott, Your lighting book is AWESOME! Everything made so much sense. I am thrilled with the pictures I have taken so far using your advice. I have so many more things that I want to try. I'm also going to order your wedding book and posing book when it is available. You are a great teacher! Mary Sweeney |
| Scott. I received your lighting book just after 4:30 PM today. Took it home, started reading it, finished it about 5 minutes ago THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU. Your lighting techniques made complete sense to me. You wouldn't believe how excited I am over my new found knowledge. The outdoor lighting for Weddings was like having a lightning bolt strike me. Genius! So Simple. I can't wait to shoot another wedding next summer. Thank you very much for your knowledge. You have given me great confidence in my abilities. SIMPLE IS BETTER. Again thank you. Great book. You will be hearing from me to purchase your other books. Please notify me when the Posing book is finished, as I would love to add this to my collection. MAN, if I had the money I would love to fly across the world to attend one of your seminars. Sincerely, James C. Hodgins |
| Hi Scott, First, thank you for your terrific book on lighting. I am learning plenty even though I have taken photography at NYIP. Best Regards, Bob Pardue |
| Scott, I just
order your wedding book and I already have your lighting
book, I liked it so much that I am going to give it to my
lighting teacher at Saint Petersburg, Jr. College here in
Florida, and let him go through it, I think that for the lighting class that he is opening this January it would make a great text book. Peter Cartier |
| Hey Scott! I just received the books and gels that my sweet dad ordered for me! They are awesome! You really know how to explain things in "everyday" language, with the emphasis on us learning in a fun way. I kicked back and have been reading and enjoying! Anyway, I am enjoying the books and can't wait to put some of the advice into practice. Thanks for everything! Teresa Ash, Marshall, Texas |
| Scott, I bought your trio of books recently and found them very easy to read, much less technical than the usual explanations. Well done! Cheers Dave Miller |
| Hello Scott, I received your lighting book yesterday. What a fantastic resource! I was up past midnight last night going through it. Your book offers value far beyond it's price. Thanks again! -John Driscoll |
| Scott. I got my copy of Studio Lighting today and am almost ashamed to say that I spent the rest of the afternoon with my nose buried deep within. Great book. Thanks again! Fred Walker |
| Scott, I just got off the phone with you. I am compelled to express my pleasure first at having had you in person rather than an order taker and second at the comfort level that you gave me during our conversation. Although I am a mere "advanced amateur", I never detected any condescension on your part, just two people passionate about photography having a chat about what they love. For that I thank you. I will make it a point to try and attend one of your seminars in the Lone Star state, although I wish you could make it to the North East. Fabulous web site, extremely informative!! Many thanks, Sincerely, Jean-David |
| Scott: I have read every question and answer on your web site. I also recently purchased your book Studio Lighting Made Simple. I must say " this combination has helped me understand the most tricky concepts." I have watched many videos and read numerous books. Nothing compares. Thanks Scott! You are a gentleman and a great businessman. I wish their were more people like you to help newcomers learn the secrets rather than hide information and discourage them. I will be proud one day to be called a photographer! Sincerely, Jay Asper |
| Hello Scott, I think your book entitled "Studio Lighting made simple" is the best book available on the topic. I own and have read several books on portrait photography and lighting. Your book is far superior to many others as instructional material. Combined with the supplemental information and photographs on your web page, it provides the necessary knowledge to fully develop my lighting skills. It's just what I was looking for all semester in photography II at San Jacinto JC. My instructor was very impressed with it. I would not be surprised, if he includes the book in graduate classes at UH next semester. The book makes an excellent text and should be included in any painting or photography class. Randy Peters |
| Dear Mr. Smith, I wanted to let you know that the books were very helpful and easy to read. Sincerely, Jim Robertson |
| Scott, I wanted to thank you for prompt response to my order for your Studio Lighting, Wedding and Boudoir books, as well as the lighting panels. I just finished reading the Studio Lighting book (just got it yesterday) and can't wait to try out some of your suggestions for lighting. I found it very well written and easy to read. The light panels, as you said they would be, are of first class construction. ......Once again, thanks for your advice and I'm sure that you will be hearing from me in the future.Bon chance dan tout chose!! Mike Louvier |
| Scott, I just recieved your book about 2 hours ago, (Studio Lighting made simple), and I have spent that two hours reading it. I have learned more in that two hours than I have in hours and hours of reading other books. Your book contains the stepping stone that I need to get out of the ugly rut I am in. Thank you! Thank you! D. Holiday Shelby, NC |
| Scott, Your package arrived today. I flipped through the books and I believe these books will be well worn before I ever put them aside (if ever!) They are well written with lots of great info and the photos are the type I hope to someday produce! With your help I'm sure it is possible. Thanks! Now I need to run to Home Depot for PVC to build my panel frames! Again,Thanks, Doug |
| Hey Scott, I
bought three of your books back in Nov. 1999. I knew
nothingabout lighting before I bought them. I have
actually surprised myself how good my images look
learning your techniques. Thanks, Jim Dugger St. Augustine, Fl. |
| Scott, I have recently purchased your lighting and wedding books. Thank you very much for their "simple" explanations! I hope to begin applying them to my work soon! Thanks, David Berensohn |
| Dear Scott, My name is Michael Lunny, last winter I spoke to you from my home in Quebec, Canada. I purchased two wonderful and very educational books from you, the wedding book and the studio lighting book. Let me tell you that you made my life easier in both functions. The studio lighting book has given me results that I never thought possible as a amateur. I love the diffusing panels, I get the lighting I want with out moving anything other than the light head. Lighting made simple. Scott, I just wanted to say thanks, your books made my photography more exciting. To you and your family, from Mary and myself, we wish you a joyous Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year. Mike Lunny |
| Scott,
love the web site...stole my brother's copy of Lighting
Magic (which he made me give back!) and played in the
studio...this was really fun. Can't wait for your posing
book to come out. Your books are well written and the
information contained therein is concise, to the point
and easy reading. Great stuff. I still need help in the
posing department (hint, hint). Michael |
| I Love This Book! Scott: This lighting book is really good. I have been spending a lot of time in it and trying the methods you described. You are right about the ways people teach. I know the other two books will be just as great. That lesson on background lighting really blew me away. I've always tried to use grids to keep light off the background to make it go black. Boy do I feel like the dummy after reading this. I've only got a few more chapters to go and I will go back through it again to take detailed notes. I have balanced all my lights now, gotta get some white thread to finish this panel. Have a great week my friend and thanks... I'm going to either push to have you come to our school next year or I will come out to the Texas School for your class. Hopefully I'll have some prints to show you of the results of your teaching :-) Waldo Berry Kansas State University |
| Scott, Studio Lighting Made Simple - Wow! A FANTASTIC book on lighting. When I think about all the money I have spent (wasted) on lighting "technique" books that only showcase the authors best shots without any real detail on the thought process or techniques that went into making the picture or went into technical dissertations that are meant to impress NASA scientists (or Nuclear Engineers). I wish I would have discovered your books a long time ago. Made Simple is VERY easy to understand, well thought out and informative. A perfect book for an advanced amateur or the young aspiring professional. Feel free to quote any part of that! The Boudoir and Wedding books as "companion" books to Studio Lighting are as well thought out. Thanks again for taking the time to put together a great series of books! Andy Seynaeve Hampton, IL |
| Dear Scott, I want to thank you very sincerely for writing such an outstanding book and providing such a great web site. After purchasing my first Novatron pack several months ago and finding your brochure inside, I have learned so much! I am a sixth grade math teacher in Cardiff, CA, and see 131 students a day. Guess who my willing subjects have been? Your book is so fabulous and helpful and clearly written! I appreciate so much the effort you put into that book Studio Lighting Made Simple. Finally a book that makes sense and is a wonderful guide to the art of studio photography. On the weekends I have converted my classroom into a mini studio where I practice portraits. My students have been very helpful (and understanding of my mistakes); they come in on Saturday or Sunday for hour-long sessions with their mom or dad and I get loads of practice. I am very interested in becoming an accomplished portrait photographer, especially of children. I see about 130-140 new students each year (I teach five periods of math each day), and thus, I have a built-in clientele. The principal has been very supportive and has named me School Historian as I not only do portraits, but basically record on film just about everything that goes on at our school. But doing portraits of the kids is my main love, and I simply cannot tell you how much everything has changed since I started doing portraits and following your guidelines. Thank you again so much for providing the basic knowledge and help I needed to get started and providing the path for future progress. The results so far have been great, and parents love the pictures of their kids. What a great new dimension this has added to our school environment! Thank you for taking the time to read this email. I'm sure you are very busy, but I get the feeling you are a teacher after my own heart. You have a passion for photography and for teaching it that shines through in your book. I hope in the future to attend a workshop taught by you. Whenever I can I go to your web site and found it to be one of the most enjoyable sites I have ever visited. I know because it's one of the few I keep revisiting! Best wishes to you and your family... Sincerely, Dale A. Regazzi Cardiff, California |
| Scott, I am in receipt of your book "Studio Lighting Made Simple" and have absolutely been immersed in reading it. It is, without a doubt, one of the best reads on the subject that I have ever seen. Thanks for your help (and your book). Regards, Ron Crawford |
| Hi Scott, I ordered 3 of your books last week and they came Monday. Thanks for the fast service! I have been reading them every chance I have had and love them. They are the clearest texts I have ever read on photography. I guess I'll be selling some of my old books (and maybe a soft box) on eBay! I also appreciate and relate to your attitudes on several things, like the importance of satisfying every customer and your preference for working as a sole photographer, so as not to bear the responsibility of someone else's actions. Nobody else can care about my customers in quite the same way I do. I also appreciate your boudoir book. This is an area I have been interested in, but haven't been too sure about. We (my wife helps with my photography) have had two requests for this kind of session the last two months. I had it in my mind that it could be something very tasteful and respectful. You expressed what I had been thinking beautifully. Your rule that a lady will always be portrayed as a lady and nothing less (did I get that right?) is perfect. I appreciate the fact that you are willing to share your experience with others. Thanks for everything, Robin Hickman (second
e-mail) |
| Wow, Scott! Your book has given me the confidence I needed to embark on my dream project. I had read a half dozen other lighting books and still had no idea about where to begin or what equipment to purchase. Thanks to Studio Lighting Made Simple, I know exactly what I need and how I will use it. Can't wait to get started! Rich Los Angeles |
| Scott, Just a quick note to say thanks. We received the book in perfect condition.....Got started into it on our rainy Sunday - easy style to read and handle - and a lot of great information - you've certainly done a great job - and I'm very pleased with it. Just wanted to say thanks! Leon Watson (Project Engineer) Toyo Engineering Corporation, JAPAN |
| Scott, I have received your book and I must say that I have learned more within the last few days about lighting than I have in the past. Your images of what each light pattern should look like has made a tremendous difference for me, instead of hearing about what they should look like, I now know what they look like. Thanks. Also, you idea about having a ratio set of prints made as a reference is really a great idea. Thanks. D. R. BRANTLEY |
| Hi Scott: We talked on the phone, you may
remember the discussion of my wife's cancer and
subsequent recovery. I received the Studio Lighting book and am very pleased with it. There is no question that it is far better than all the "coffee table" books that I have, including the Pro-Lighting "Portraits". This latter book gives a slick presentation of the work of several photographers and has good lighting diagrams, but like the rest of the genre, doesn't give the "nuts and bolts" of how to set up and operate a portrait studio like your book does. I am looking forward to purchasing your book on Posing, when it is ready. Thanks for your help. Stan Locus Van Nuys, CA |
| Dear Scott and Becky, I got my Pola Book and tools last week. I really enjoyed reading through the book. I especially loved the glossary of terms at the back. I learned things I didn't know such as how to make a cable release. I'm going to attempt some night shots soon. The Pola tools are very nice and allow fine control. I have been using my keys and a chopstick! The book was great in that you broke everything down into a step by step simple process. Congratulations on a fine book. Sincerely and God's light to you Chris Hansen Falcon's Wing Photography |
| Scott I can't express how pleased and excited I was after reading you book on lighting. You make everything simple and easy to understand. All the other books that I have read did nothing but confuse me. Why can't everyone make light so simple? I have read the book 3 times and each time I garner more and more information. I would Highly recommend this book for anyone that wants to learn how to paint with light in an easy and understandable manner. Sincerely Bill Hansen |
| Dear Scott, I'm enjoying the lighting book and learning more about the subject than I've ever known. Thanks for making it understandable. I can't wait to get my strobes balanced and start practicing. My neighbors probably think I'm crazy-holding up my hand while on my early morning walk, looking for the "glow" of the light. Thanks for your time and patience. I hope to come to a class someday, somewhere. Your student in Tallassee, Alabama, Mike |
| Scott, First of all your wife
handles that phone quite well. It's evident that people
matter to you. I appreciate that. Oh, I just received my
edition of your book, Studio Lighting Made Simple. I
can't say enough about it. I have a 50 th wedding
anniversary portrait shooting coming up sat, Sept 11th. I
been reading your book and planning my strategy. Thanks again. please tell your wife I was not disappointed because the book was not a hard back. Rather, tell her accept for the Bible, I haven't been able to put it down. Aspiring to greatness in Seattle, Darrell Warren PS : SOME DAY WE WILL MEET. |
| Dear Scott: Your Boudoir Made Simple book has helped me understand more about Boudoir photography. I especially like how you teach us to make the customer feel comfortable. I have learned so much. I plan to change my package design like you suggest. I makes a lot of sense. I also really like the case histories in the book. Some are very funny. Thanks you so much for your easy way of teaching. We need more teachers just like you. Sincerely, F. Gomez Los Angeles, CA |
| Scott: I received the package yesterday, and read the studio book. WOW, I am very impressed with your ability to "Teach" lighting. Thanks again for the time you took with me on the phone last week. Wayne P.S. When will you hold another one day lighting class as I can't make the one in October ? |
| Scott, I received my Lighting book today, what a pleasure it was to open, I frantically flipped through every page and said, "wow", this is exactly what I have been searching for. The book plus your informative web site, wow! I will let you know how I progress. Right now I have to head to the hardware store and purchase some PVC. Cheers, and thank you very much. As I always say to my photo friends, " You don't need a name brand to take a great picture." I'm glad I see you stating this as well. Thanks again, Frank Hupalo |
| Scott you do not know me personally
but I have bought 3 of your books and they are superb.
You have been a God send. Thank you! Rhonda |
| Scott, After reading, re-reading, practicing, reading, re-reading and practicing some more - your methods have made worlds of difference to my lighting! The methods and practices you teach hold up well after following them for almost a year. The notion that I am in charge of my lights and not a slave to formula lighting has me trying things that I would have never thought of. Establishing a working ISO (such a basic and simple concept) has really done wonders for my location shoots. No more guessing and hoping that something will turn out well - I KNOW IT WILL! Now that I have gotten past concentrating on lighting, I have more freedom to explore new and exciting poses since I can now see what the light is doing and predict the results. To quote something I read somewhere..."Training that thing between your ears is pretty important." I hope that I didn't butcher your quote too badly!! Thanks again for all your efforts in putting together a great series of books! Andy Seynaeve Hampton, IL (Nuclear Simulator Instructor and future photog) |
| Dear
Scott: As of this writing, I am re-reading the "Studio Lighting Made Simple." The text is clearly written, concise, and filled with tips that demand immediate application. A co-worker asked that I photograph her daughter prior to her first Prom. I set up the lights and took a series of shots. A few hours later, the mother called me screaming into the phone that I needed to wait in my office for her momentary arrival with the photos. Given the size and general disposition of the mother, I spent the next few minutes in dread anticipation of her impending arrival. Upon arrival at my office, she threw her arms around my neck and cried while thanking me. The photographs were unbelievable. The mother (Elnora) wanted to know why I continued to work as a paramedic. I would like to thank you for the wonderful information that you communicated so well within the text (and probably saving my hide). Thanks, Tony |
| Hello again Scott. This is Dennis Fehling. I
have spoken to you a few times. The most recent was about
a week ago. I again want to thank you for writing a great
book on studio lighting. You have really made my life a
whole lot easier. I have made my diffusion panel and I
love it. What an idea..........!!!!!!!!! You really ought to do this photography thing for a living,,,,,,,,ha ha ha ha! I also appreciate you taking time to answer some of the questions I have had. I hope you and your family have a great Christmas and a very happy new year. Dennis Fehling |
| Scott I just finished reading your wedding book. Wow! You really did hit on the things that I hated about doing weddings. I was starting to feel burnt out with weddings. I can tell that you have done a ton of them. The ways you solve problems are so simple I keep asking why I never thought of them. I just wanted to say thanks for making weddings less painful for me. I plan to adopt many of your methods and policies. Best wishes, Randy Tyler |
| Scott: I wanted to compliment you on your lighting book. It is well written and explains lighting information using the "kiss" method. I got the photography bug about 1 year ago. I have purchased numerous books trying to soak up information. Your book is the best resource I have found. I hope to see more books coming from you. Chris Routt |
| Hi Scott! I got my book "Studio Lighting Made Simple" yesterday. Thanks for the fast service. Before going any further, I am the one you talked to last week and you commented on my southern accent! (Georgia) I have read almost the complete book and I really feel like my eyes have opened up. Thanks for NOT filling it with nice photos, but rather useful and needed info. I did find, however, your daughter's photo to be very nice...such a pretty girl. Thanks again, the book has really opened my eyes and answered many questions already and I have more to read!!! Take care....wishing you and your family well. Ricky Wasden |
| Hello Scott: Your books (I have three) are terrific and have been a huge help! Griff Crutti Baton Rouge, LA |
| Hi Scott, This is Mario Ruiz from California, I purchased you Studio Lighting book and it opened up a new world to me. Thank You Mario |
| Dear Scott: I have just finished reading three of your books and I want to thank you very much for all the practical information contained in them. They are by far the best books in that regard we have read and we really appreciate the lighting explanations you gave and your explanation of how you organize weddings. Thanks for books that were very much worth the money. Thank again -Scott and LeeAnn Forrester |
| Scott. I was reading your book until about
11:00 last night, and I want to tell you that your
explanations of something everyone else has made
complicated are making lighting crystal clear to me. Thanks, Gene Willard Vidalia, LA |
| Scott, I just got your book on studio lighting Monday, finished reading it today. A great piece of work! I enjoy your conversational way of writing and your direct, no nonsense, information. Without even running a roll of film through my camera I have a renewed sense of confidence and I am almost "giddy with excitement" to start using your knowledge. As you stated, I want to be an artist first and a technician second. Give my best to your wife and daughter. By the way I'm the Bart from New Joysey. I hope you get your web site up and running soon. All the best, Bart Ingraldi of the soon to be famous Barnett Studios |
| Scott – Received your “Studio Lighting” book and I think it’s just great. Have hardly been able to put it down. (Well…I do have a 10 month old so…) Sincerely, Kim McCormick North Las Vegas, NV |
| Scott; Thank you for your insights on glamour lighting and short lighting. I bought your books on studio lighting, wedding and boudoir photography and find them just excellent. Thank you so much for your help and for your books. Thanks. Jerry Lozynsky |
| Dear
Scott, I love your site!! I ordered your lighting book last year and think that your description of the book is quite accurate. It does put lighting into its simplest form and it is really easy to understand. (Let me know if you need another testimonial!) Your book is probably the best book I own on photographic lighting. I took the time to build a light panel just like your book describes and it works GREAT!! I shoot a lot of martial arts portraits and always had a problem controlling the shadows that fell on my seamless paper. Using the light panel, this is no longer a problem. Like you, I also shoot the old Mamiya 1000s cameras. Your site has inspired me to add an additional piece of equipment to my photographic arsenal. I just purchased a smoke machine. Thanks!! Jeff Tallant |
| Quite comprehensive and by far the
best thing I've seen for someone trying to get started
with studio lighting. Many of the books in the store have
lots of diagrams and tell you "Do this for this
effect" but don't tell you why or how to see those
opportunities on your own. Scott's book emphasizes
understanding of the use of the lights and shadows so you
can create on your own. Evan |
| Hello Scott I just wanted to tell you and your wife how much fun I am having doing the SX-70 Pola-painting thing. Your book made it really easy to get started. I found a camera and have already done a number of photographs. The Pola-terms in the back of the book are hilarious. Thanks for all the good technical info on the cameras. Now that I know how to test them, I won't be so afraid to buy one when I see it at a garage sale. Tell your wife that her work is great. I hope to be able to show you some of mine soon. Thanks for a great book. Very sincerely, Susan Redden |
| Hi Scott, I got all three books. They are all great. The lighting book is the clearest explanation of studio lighting I have ever seen. Instead of taking a scattergun approach to lighting, you have focused in on what really matters. There are a lot of ways to light a portrait, but some ways are much simpler than others. I have already constructed my diffusion panel and gobo and I am going to balance my strobes/modeling lights this evening (I had to get a new battery for my flash meter). By the way, the Boudoir book and the Wedding book are both fantastic as well. I haven't finished reading them yet, but what I have read so far makes a lot of sense - especially the preplanning-rifle shot approach to weddings. The other idea in your wedding book that I especially like is your philosophy concerning dispensing with the photos of the wedding party as they enter the sanctuary and walk down the main aisle of the church. I am quite shy by nature and not all that quick on the shutter, so all the things you mention - getting sides of faces, getting out of focus shots, feeling strange backing down the aisle in front of the bride and her dad - all ring true in my head. Anyway, thank you for everything. Paul |
| Dear Scott: I've bought Studio Lighting Made Simple and I have enjoyed it immensely. I'm now rereading it for the fourth time. Much thanks for the reams of good info in the book. I get something more out of it each time I reread it. Sincerely, Randy Beranek New York |
| Scott: Just received and read your lighting book last night. I am very pleased with it. For a year, I have felt like a "light-aholic", buying "Just one more lighting book". I knew exactly what I was looking for, but was very frustrated because I couldn't find it. I used to swear that photographers were keeping these secrets to themselves, just like the magicians used to before Fox TV caught up with them. Thanks very much, I'm off to the bookstore to return my OTHER books. Kind regards, Amal Elaine Schmitz |
| Scott: I have never had the privilege of speaking to you. I think you were out teaching the week I ordered your books on lighting and boudoir photography. There was a time when I wanted to be a professional photographer. Things being what they are, I made a left turn some where between photo 101 and chem. 101 and wound up in dental school. Now, though my photography is vastly improved, and I am even willing to show some of the work that comes out of my basement dark room, I can't financially take the hit of quitting my day job. I can tell you that through 8 years of higher education and umpteen CE courses over the past 30 years, I know good teachers from average or, God forbid, poor ones. Scott you are in the top echelons. I know this from witnessing your patience, your lucidity and your knowledge. One day I hope to take the time off to go to the Texas School of Professional Photography and take your course. (Just give me 6 months advance notice of the dates and place) Keep up the spread of knowledge. Without people like you, people like me would still be using point and shoot cameras. Marshall Elpus, DDS |
| Dear Scott: I just wanted you to know that I think your book is GREAT! (I am sure you already know this, but I am a firm believer in positive input) Lighting has always been kind of a mystery to me. I have fumble my way through it and have been doing very flat lighting. I have felt that some of my best lighting were my "oops" shots where one of my lights didn't fire. For several months now I have been trying to adjust my lighting based on seeing the light on the subject, but it makes me a little nervous to try it when I have my paying customer sitting there. So the moral of my rambling is that now I have concrete information to what I've been trying on my own and won't have to worry about messing up a paying customers order. Yipee! I also like the fact that you give info on how to make some of your own equipment. I am a do it yourselfer so this fits me perfect. (I better be cause I own an 110 year old home) Thanks A Million! Kathy Kehl Grand Rapids, MI |
| Dear Scott: Very good--your book on studio lighting. I plan to use it in my studio portrait class. Yours truly, Brenda Ladd |
| Scott, I recently purchased several of your books, including Becky's Pola-painting book, and have found them to be extremely helpful, and rather inspirational. Thanks for putting this information together. I don't really know what I would have done without the tips. I am new to lighting, and I suspect I would have given up trying to control my lighting without these tips. Thanks, Steve Campbell |
| Scott: I just received your book on studio lighting and want to say thanks for delivering on your promise of a readable and useful guide. You have taken the mystery out of several aspects of lighting and metering that I've been guessing at for some time. Also, the tips on makeup and posing are practical and nicely illustrated. Thanks for keeping it simple while also packing so much information into the book. Hope all is well on the home front. Keep the faith. Brian Weberg |
| Your books are everything they are reputed
to be and infinitely more. I am very happy that I bought
them. And I don't hesitate to recommend them to others. Hamptom G. Lewis |
| Received your book the other day and have
enjoyed reading it for the first time through. Will
re-read it a few more times. Thanks again for such a good
manual to go by. Gary Wilson AZ Photographer |
| Hi Scott You may remember that I just purchased your Studio Lighting Book. I read through it in about two days! It's clear, concise, now don't lose me, easy to understand, and very well written. Thanks Ernie Simon |
| Hi Scott: I have been watching for your site for quite a while. I am glad to see the results of your efforts! Congratulations! I am reading your lighting book again now that I see the actual photographic examples. Love your work, love your book. And Becky's work is AMAZING!! Take care, keep up the good work! Thanks for all the excellent information! And may God bless. Steve Heaton Spirit lake, IA |
| Scott, Thank you for taking so much time with me in our telephone conversation. It is quite rare to find a professional in any field who is as personable as you. Thank you, too, for your prompt sending of Studio Lighting. It was waiting for me when I returned from New York. I have read through the book twice. Like any excellent text, it is well written, very informative, and sets the essential parameters. More importantly, it generates interest to learn even more. I look forward to coming to Texas and attending at least one of your classes in the near future. Thanks again. Randy Frank |
| Dear Scott, I wanted to thank you, I never thought that I would learn about lighting so fast, but after reading your book's I have the knowledge and confidence that it takes to turn out great photographs. And the results show.. Thanks again Matt Forster Belleville, Michigan |
| Dear Scott, I talked to you briefly a week or two ago while I was ordering the studio lighting and the wedding photography books. I am very happy with both of them. They have a wealth of good information in them. Kathy |
| Dear Scott I sincerely wish to thank you for sharing your talent and awesome expertise through your book, STUDIO LIGHTING MADE SIMPLE. I read the complete work in two days . . . and find myself going back to various chapters for "refreshers." And my photographs speak for themselves . . . from amateur snapshots to more polished and professional photographs . . . mostly due to your book. Thanks, again! Ron Sims |
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Revised: September 14, 1999.