Gregory Heisler: 50 Portraits: Stories and Techniques from a Photographer’s Photographer

by Gregory Heisler
Gregory Heisler: 50 Portraits: Stories and Techniques from a Photographer’s Photographer cover
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  • ID: 6034
  • Added: 2025-10-30
  • Updated: 2025-10-30
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
strobist.blogspot.com · Unknown · 2025-12-10
insightful 4.50

Gregory Heisler's '50 Portraits' is a deeply personal and technical exploration of portrait photography, offering insights into the photographer's thought process and work ethic. The book is not just about the images but also about the emotional and technical aspects that go into creating them, making it a valuable resource for photographers.

Gregory Heisler's '50 Portraits' is a remarkable book that goes beyond just showcasing beautiful photographs. It delves into the emotional and technical aspects of portrait photography, providing a 360-degree experience. Each portrait is accompanied by a detailed narrative that includes the thought process leading up to the photo and technical insights. This book is like having a conversation with Heisler, learning from his extensive experience and understanding the hard work and thought that goes into creating great images. It's a valuable resource for photographers, offering a unique blend of personal stories and technical knowledge.

Quick quotes

    This is not a lighting book. Although, to be sure, there is a lot of lighting information in it. Perhaps more value in lighting education than any book I have ever read.

    What you get from this is a true sense of the work ethic (or 'thought ethic?') that being a great photographer requires.

    The first section sets it all up — it puts you there, and gets you thinking. Only then are you ready to consider the more technical and photo-related solutions.

shutterbug.com · Unknown · 2025-12-10
excellent 4.50

Gregory Heisler's book offers a deep dive into his iconic portraits, sharing the stories and techniques behind his work. The book is praised for its insightful and personal perspective, making it a valuable resource for photographers.

Gregory Heisler's book, '50 Portraits: Stories and Techniques from a Photographer’s Photographer,' is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone interested in portrait photography. The book features a collection of Heisler's most iconic portraits, each accompanied by the stories behind the images. This provides fascinating context and insight into the creative process. Heisler shares not just how he made the images, but also the rationale behind his creative choices, working methods, and strategies. The book is praised for its plainspoken exploration of complex photographic concepts, making it accessible and valuable for both amateur and professional photographers. The inclusion of portraits of celebrities and personalities adds an extra layer of interest, offering a glimpse into the personalities of figures like Muhammad Ali, Tim Burton, and Julia Roberts.

Quick quotes

    Heisler generously shares exactly how he made the images, but more importantly, he explains the “why” — the rationale behind his creative choices, working methods, and strategies.

    The book draws upon 35 years of richly varied experiences as a portrait photographer working at the highest level for many national and international magazines.

    By offering a fascinating, plainspoken exploration into his creative process, Heisler generously shares exactly how he made the images, but more importantly, he explains the “why” — the rationale behind his creative choices, working methods, and strategies.

nishantratnakar.com · Unknown · 2013-11-11
brilliant 4.50

Gregory Heisler's '50 Portraits' offers a deep dive into portrait photography, blending stunning images with technical expertise and personal anecdotes. It's an essential read for photographers, providing insights into lighting, creative philosophy, and the psychology of portraiture.

Gregory Heisler's '50 Portraits' is a visually captivating and insightful book that goes beyond a simple collection of images. It offers a rare look into the mind of a respected photographer, blending technical expertise with personal anecdotes and creative philosophy. Heisler showcases 50 of his most compelling portraits, featuring notable figures, and provides behind-the-scenes narratives that detail his thought process, lighting choices, and challenges faced during shoots. The book is not just a portfolio but an engaging and educational resource for photographers at any level. Heisler's approachable writing style makes it accessible, discussing both the 'how' and 'why' behind his images, and delving into the relationships he builds with his subjects. The book is praised for its in-depth discussion of lighting and the personal touch that makes it a valuable tool for anyone serious about portrait photography.

Quick quotes

    This book offers a rare look into the mind of one of the industry’s most respected photographers, blending technical expertise with personal anecdotes and creative philosophy.

    Heisler’s meticulous approach — whether using natural light, strobes, or mixed sources — demonstrates the nuanced decisions that shape a compelling portrait.

    Unlike many technical photography books, Heisler’s writing is approachable, engaging, and often humorous.

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