Getting Closer: Rediscovering Nature Through Bird Photography

Description

Getting Closer is a beautifully illustrated discussion of photography as a way of achieving greater intimacy with the natural world. With a focus on birds, the book is directed primarily at photographers (of all levels of skill and experience), but also at birders, people interested in the outdoors, and those who would simply like to achieve a deeper connection with the natural world. The introduction makes the case for reconnecting with nature in a way that will draw in a wide range of readers, not just photographers. We have to reconnect, as most of us have lost the spontaneous bond with nature we enjoyed as young children and, in the face of impending ecological disaster, reconnecting with nature is our most urgent task. Getting Closer offers a simple, practical path for readers to begin to 'rewild' themselves. This is the focus of the second part of the book, where the author explores ways of becoming attentive to the natural world around you, wherever you may live. Through self-contained spreads on topics ranging from 'the four seasons' and 'winds and tides' to 'flight shots' and 'colour and texture', he introduces basic, hands-on techniques that, with practice, will enable readers to both deeply connect with their environment and become proficient wildlife photographers. 'Top tips' on each spread provide technical information aimed at more serious photographers.

Paul Sorrell took up photography in the early 2000s, giving him a new form of creative engagement with his longstanding interest in wildlife and the natural world. His images have featured on a range of platforms, from international wildlife photography competitions to Tourism New Zealand's website.

'It's rare that I get through a book in less than one day and I put this down to the fact that this one makes compelling reading.... I look forward to absorbing and practising the book's excellent content.' -- Better Photographs 'Whether you're an old hand at photographing birds, or eager to get started (especially now!), it's an excellent read. Highly, highly recommended!' -- Dr. Jessie Voigts "Gives readers some priceless tips on how to capture images of the natural environment ." -- The Gardens Magazine (Friends of the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney) "If you're not already a bird photographer, after reading this thoughtful and detailed book you'll want to become one." -- Australian Birdlife "Offers hands-on techniques that will enable readers to connect deeply with their environment and become proficient wildlife photographers." * Australian Wildlife * "You will see the world differently after reading and enjoying the wonderful insights and stunning photographs in this beautifully produced coffee table book. It will be a treasured gift for anyone with an appreciation of impressive photography, an abiding interest in the experience of exploring the natural world or a desire to enrich their wildlife photographic skills.." * Studio Magazine * "A beautifully illustrated discussion of photography as a way of achieving greater intimacy with the nature world" * Earth Endeavours (via Instagram) * "This beautifully produced coffee table book will be a treasured gift for anyone with an appreciation of impressive photography, an abiding interest in the experience of exploring the natural world or a desire to enrich their wildlife photographic skills." * Studio Magazine * "As a wildlife photographer, I found this to be a very comprehensive book that can be used as a guide for beginners, intermediates and professionals... highly recommend it as a must have book to be used in the field and for post-production." -- The Avicultural Society of Australia Journal "Paul Sorrell is a photographer, writer and editor with a life-long interest in the natural world. His new book, Getting Closer, aims to help us reframe our relationship with nature through bird photography." -- True Blue (Rex Airlines) Magazine "Getting Closer is a beautiful practical guide to photographing nature. It includes many stunning photographs and is perfect for all who are interested in photography." -- Let's Find Out (published by Science Teacher's Association of Victoria) "Full of stunning photographic inspiration, Getting Closer presents photography as a way of achieving greater intimacy with the natural world." -- RACQ Living "[Getting Closer], well thought-out and well-presented, is more than the sum of its parts." -- 10,000 Birds "Utterly engaging." * Grass Roots Magazine * Covers a lot of ground. Paul Sorrell reflects on the ecological crisis, the benefits of being outside and the importance of becoming familiar with the places close to us. (You don't have to drive for six hours to enjoy the natural world). There's a lot of good material on photographing birds in the backyard and further afield, and good practical advice about clothing, concealment and safety. * The Independent Catholic Magazine Limited * Featuring over 100 photographs of New Zealand birds, this attractively produced book * Tui Motu InterIslands Magazine * "will definitely help to take readers back to nature ... compelling reading." * Talking Birds *