"THE NEXT STEP" by Al Weber

[Salmo22]

I recently acquired a copy of the book by Al Weber titled: Advice for Photographers: The Next Step.

In the spirit of full disclosure I didn't become aware of Mr. Weber until I read his introduction, "Photographs That Ask Questions", to Mark Citret's monograph: Parallel Landscapes. I found that short intro thought provoking and was pleased to find this physically small book, less than one hundred pages, while wandering through my local used bookstore. No technical discussions. Instead, when reading The Next Step, I think of a more practical and direct rendition of Ted Orland's Art and Fear. It provokes serious thought about my photography and I've found myself rereading sections to stimulate additional contemplation. One such section, a two page essay, is titled: The Power of Thought / The Dilemma of Influence. Says he; "The most powerful art is that made by an individual, with as little external influence as possible".

I recommend this book highly.

[Oren Grad]

Thanks for posting, very much worthy of attention.

Although he passed away several years ago, some of Al Weber's annual letters are still available on the web:

https://www.stare.net/weber/newsletter/index.html

More Al Weber material here:

https://www.sjphoto.com/weber-website/alweber-home.html

Al Weber and David Vestal taught some workshops together; that would have been a real treat, I'm sorry I wasn't able to participate in one. Al on David:

http://site.photoformulary.com/December2013NL.pdf

[Michael R]

Thanks for posting this, and to Oren for the additional information.

Funny thing is, I have Parallel Landscapes, and look at it often, but never read the intro! Oops.

[Keith Fleming]

I have a copy, and after reading it bought 3 copies for my grandchildren. None plan on being photographers, so I just told them to mentally remove the word photographer from the book, and substitute the title of whatever career they contemplated. Weber's advice, in my opinion, works for every career option.

[Salmo22]

Thanks for the links Oren. Like you, I wish I participated in one of his workshops.

Thanks for posting, very much worthy of attention.

Although he passed away several years ago, some of Al Weber's annual letters are still available on the web:

https://www.stare.net/weber/newsletter/index.html

More Al Weber material here:

https://www.sjphoto.com/weber-website/alweber-home.html

Al Weber and David Vestal taught some workshops together; that would have been a real treat, I'm sorry I wasn't able to participate in one. Al on David:

http://site.photoformulary.com/December2013NL.pdf

[Salmo22]

Like you Michael, I often look through Citret's monographs.

Thanks for posting this, and to Oren for the additional information.

Funny thing is, I have Parallel Landscapes, and look at it often, but never read the intro! Oops.

[Salmo22]

Terrific idea Keith. I may follow your lead with my grandkids.

I have a copy, and after reading it bought 3 copies for my grandchildren. None plan on being photographers, so I just told them to mentally remove the word photographer from the book, and substitute the title of whatever career they contemplated. Weber's advice, in my opinion, works for every career option.

[Mark Sampson]

I bought a copy 12-15 years ago and thought it quite good. I'll have to look at it again.