Digital Exposure Handbook by Ross Hoddinott, softback with flap, published by PIP, price £14.99. ISBN 978-1-86108-533-7, available from thegmcgroup.com

At first glance, this might seem a little pricey for a small paperback. However, the flap and thick card cover give this book a sturdy feel and once you really get inside, the knowledge is worth its weight in gold. The author has a wonderful way of putting his message across and is a very effective teacher. I have certainly learned an awful lot in this book that I hope to put into practice. I have struggled with the concept of exposure, so I am one of the target audience readers for this book. 

Ross states that exposure sorts the hobby photographer from the professional. Knowing that even some enthusiasts find difficulty with what seems like a complex subject, Ross has tackled exposure step by step to unravel the mysteries. 

Ross enables the reader to understand the basics and how to apply them to achieve creative results. Each chapter is well illustrated with examples. He shows how lifeless a wrong exposure can look and how to bring your photos to life by getting the exposure right. He looks at under and over exposure and their effects, uses and how to correct them. 

He shows you how to work with light and how to use flash effectively. He also demonstrates the use of digital filters and polarizers. He finishes by showing how to enhance your photos in software programs. Ross Hoddinott says exposure is ‘the heartbeat of photography’ and Ross certainly has his finger on the pulse. These professional hints and tips from are easy to understand. This is a handy, practical and invaluable guide to digital exposure.