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The Soul of the Camera: The Photographer's Place in Picture Making
As both an art form and a universal language, the photograph has an extraordinary ability to connect and communicate with others. But with over one trillion photos taken each year, why do so few of them truly connect? Why do so few of them grab our emotions or our imaginations? It is not because the images lack focus or proper exposure; with advances in technology, the camera does that so well these days. Photographer David duChemin believes the majority of our images fall short because they lack soul. And without soul, the images have no ability to resonate with others. They simply cannot connect with the viewer, or even—if we’re being truthful—with ourselves. In The Soul of the The Photographer’s Place in Picture-Making , David explores what it means to make better photographs. Illustrated with a collection of beautiful black-and-white images, the book’s essays address topics such as craft, mastery, vision, audience, discipline, story, and authenticity. The Soul of the Camera is a personal and deeply pragmatic book that quietly yet forcefully challenges the idea that our cameras, lenses, and settings are anything more than dumb and mute tools. It is the photographer, not the camera, that can and must learn to make better photographs—photographs that convey our vision, connect with others, and, at their core, contain our humanity. The Soul of the Camera helps us do that. TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
The Place of Craft
The Discovery of Vision
Mindfulness of Language
A Willingness to Interpret
The Need for Openness
Patience
Capturing the Moment
Respect for the Creative Process
A Willingness to Surrender
Obedience to Curiosity
Improvisation
Abandon Perfection
The Search for Story
The Role of Audience
The Rejection of Comparisons
Authenticity
Critique
The Need for Love
Courage
The Rejection of Rules
A (Changing) Eye for Beauty
Discipline
After the Camera
The Pursuit of Mastery
Conclusion
Introduction
The Place of Craft
The Discovery of Vision
Mindfulness of Language
A Willingness to Interpret
The Need for Openness
Patience
Capturing the Moment
Respect for the Creative Process
A Willingness to Surrender
Obedience to Curiosity
Improvisation
Abandon Perfection
The Search for Story
The Role of Audience
The Rejection of Comparisons
Authenticity
Critique
The Need for Love
Courage
The Rejection of Rules
A (Changing) Eye for Beauty
Discipline
After the Camera
The Pursuit of Mastery
Conclusion
288 pages, Hardcover
Published June 14, 2017
118 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
David duChemin
87 books166 followersDavid duChemin is a world & humanitarian photographer, best-selling author, and international workshop leader.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 14, 2018
Picked this up from a fellow photographer at a photography event one evening and, were it not for the fact that I need to get up at 5am for work, would have finished it in one sitting such is the power of DuChemin’s writing on photography. As it was, I finished it the next evening.
Whether you’re a professional or only use the camera on your phone, The Soul of the Camera is worth a read. For one thing, it’s beautifully illustrated with his own photographs and this guy can take them, he certainly can. In fact, I’d say it was worth having for the images alone. All black and white in this edition, the book itself is a beautiful thing.
But in between each pair of photographs are a few pages of DuChemin’s captivating and extremely thought-provoking prose. His website describes him as a “humanitarian” and I take that to mean that he aims to capture what it is to be human in his work, particularly to convey the themes that are shared between us all.
This at once gives his photography and his prose a relevance that only a cynic would ignore. There’s something about any art which succeeds at displaying the human condition sympathetically that makes it important not just for those who are skilled in creating or appreciating that art form. Photography, like all art forms, can often be accused of being art for art’s sake. There’s no way anyone would level that at the kind of photography DuChemin both exemplifies and urges us toward.
In an age where everyone carries a camera, it’s never been more important that we hear voices like DuChemin’s. He argues… no that’s the wrong word… he encourages us to think before we shoot whatever situation we’re in. He takes us on a journey through the typical photography curriculum and considers composition, location, lighting, etc. all while bearing in mind his object: tell the story of humanity.
As a technically accomplished photographer, I really have a lot to learn about this side of things. I need to hear what he’s saying and go beyond simply good photographs to strive, as he does, for the exceptional storytelling that photography can be. I just wish the book contained more on exactly how to do this. For example, I’d have liked each chapter to end with a couple of practical assignments that would take my skills in the direction of the point he was making. That would have created a much greater legacy than leaving the application to the reader.
For those of us who like to snap away all day on their phones, it’s an encouragement away from banality, to stop and think and be intentional about bringing more meaning to the images we produce. For those of us who do this for a living or at least sell our images to the public, it’s a reminder that our work can be far more powerful than it might otherwise be. It’s a reminder that we too can make images that heal, convict, restore, uplift, release and generally help us understand each other.
There’s something here for everyone, but if you like to think you know something about photography, this is not only a must read, it’s a must take on board and apply to your photography.
Whether you’re a professional or only use the camera on your phone, The Soul of the Camera is worth a read. For one thing, it’s beautifully illustrated with his own photographs and this guy can take them, he certainly can. In fact, I’d say it was worth having for the images alone. All black and white in this edition, the book itself is a beautiful thing.
But in between each pair of photographs are a few pages of DuChemin’s captivating and extremely thought-provoking prose. His website describes him as a “humanitarian” and I take that to mean that he aims to capture what it is to be human in his work, particularly to convey the themes that are shared between us all.
This at once gives his photography and his prose a relevance that only a cynic would ignore. There’s something about any art which succeeds at displaying the human condition sympathetically that makes it important not just for those who are skilled in creating or appreciating that art form. Photography, like all art forms, can often be accused of being art for art’s sake. There’s no way anyone would level that at the kind of photography DuChemin both exemplifies and urges us toward.
In an age where everyone carries a camera, it’s never been more important that we hear voices like DuChemin’s. He argues… no that’s the wrong word… he encourages us to think before we shoot whatever situation we’re in. He takes us on a journey through the typical photography curriculum and considers composition, location, lighting, etc. all while bearing in mind his object: tell the story of humanity.
As a technically accomplished photographer, I really have a lot to learn about this side of things. I need to hear what he’s saying and go beyond simply good photographs to strive, as he does, for the exceptional storytelling that photography can be. I just wish the book contained more on exactly how to do this. For example, I’d have liked each chapter to end with a couple of practical assignments that would take my skills in the direction of the point he was making. That would have created a much greater legacy than leaving the application to the reader.
For those of us who like to snap away all day on their phones, it’s an encouragement away from banality, to stop and think and be intentional about bringing more meaning to the images we produce. For those of us who do this for a living or at least sell our images to the public, it’s a reminder that our work can be far more powerful than it might otherwise be. It’s a reminder that we too can make images that heal, convict, restore, uplift, release and generally help us understand each other.
There’s something here for everyone, but if you like to think you know something about photography, this is not only a must read, it’s a must take on board and apply to your photography.
July 6, 2017
The last book
Thank you, David du Chemin, for this book. I have read a large number of books on photography and I have enjoyed that. But I now realize that I don't have to read any more of these. Instead I will look at the notes I have made from this last book every now and then while creating pictures.
Thank you, David du Chemin, for this book. I have read a large number of books on photography and I have enjoyed that. But I now realize that I don't have to read any more of these. Instead I will look at the notes I have made from this last book every now and then while creating pictures.
October 28, 2017
This book is more about mastering the photographer than mastering the photography gear. It's more about the focus of the photographer than the F-stop of the camera. If you're serious and passionate about photography, this book will challenge you and inspire you toward making greater, more impacting images.
November 4, 2017
It’s not the camera.
IF you’re looking for a different angle this is it. This book speaks to the notion that it’s the Photographer, and not the camera that makes photographs.
IF you’re looking for a different angle this is it. This book speaks to the notion that it’s the Photographer, and not the camera that makes photographs.
November 12, 2017
This book set me off to a different direction than the one i was already on,.. gave me dozens of names to research and self-learn about how photographs works in certain field of art of photography,.highly recommended to anyone into the art of photography.
April 29, 2018
This is a beautiful book. It is remarkable, in that David takes you right back to the essence of photography and image making.
It is a book to be read slowly. One chapter a day. No more. Then, you digest what he has written, look at the images and move on to the next chapter the next day.
While it is a short book in terms of text, it is a book that you need to think about, and this is why it is worth taking the time to read.
It is, ultimately, a book about ourselves, our lives and how we see the world.
I am very glad that I bought and read it.
It is a book to be read slowly. One chapter a day. No more. Then, you digest what he has written, look at the images and move on to the next chapter the next day.
While it is a short book in terms of text, it is a book that you need to think about, and this is why it is worth taking the time to read.
It is, ultimately, a book about ourselves, our lives and how we see the world.
I am very glad that I bought and read it.
September 4, 2017
First photography book I've read that doens't explain ideal ISO settings, how to correct EV values or post-production best practices. It's all about how to think about photography, how to find your own perspective and photography as an art.
Great read - David is incredibly passionate about it and conveys that passion into his words. If you care at all about photography, you'll have a good time :)
Great read - David is incredibly passionate about it and conveys that passion into his words. If you care at all about photography, you'll have a good time :)
December 29, 2020
Soul of the photograph is often the author himself. When I picked this book I thought it will help me take a next step in the photography - but it turned out, it did so much more, changing and helping me shape the understanding what photography is and what’s important in this craft. There is no single sentence in the book saying “you should take that kind of pictures with that kind of camera setting” yet I feel it gave me so much more of the knowledge, wisdom and inspiration than countless tutorials, videos and guides. I feel like one of the quotes from the book perfectly summarizes what should we take out from it: “what’s in your way, is the way”.
In my opinion, this book is so much more that just a book about photography. I believe that the photography part itself could be replaced with any other craft, job or activity and the arguments and points made in the book would still be valid and impactful. Not only to our understanding of a given craft, but also as a guidelines for us how to be better at achieving our goals and dreams.
In my opinion, this book is so much more that just a book about photography. I believe that the photography part itself could be replaced with any other craft, job or activity and the arguments and points made in the book would still be valid and impactful. Not only to our understanding of a given craft, but also as a guidelines for us how to be better at achieving our goals and dreams.
February 3, 2019
How to Make Photographs that are Art
There are many books about cameras and the craft of camera mastery. This is not one of them. This is not for the camera aficionado who is overly concerned with f stops, lenses and megapixels. There are plenty of other books about that. This is about creating meaningful photographs that speak for you and communicate a vision of the world to others. This is about learning to take risks in image-making instead of relying on tried and true rules of composition. It is an inspiring guide to those who wish to dig deep and learn how to make truly magnificent photographs that inspire others with a personal story. It is well-written, personal, and inspiring. If you approach photography as a medium for self-expression, with passion and excitement, this book is for you.
There are many books about cameras and the craft of camera mastery. This is not one of them. This is not for the camera aficionado who is overly concerned with f stops, lenses and megapixels. There are plenty of other books about that. This is about creating meaningful photographs that speak for you and communicate a vision of the world to others. This is about learning to take risks in image-making instead of relying on tried and true rules of composition. It is an inspiring guide to those who wish to dig deep and learn how to make truly magnificent photographs that inspire others with a personal story. It is well-written, personal, and inspiring. If you approach photography as a medium for self-expression, with passion and excitement, this book is for you.
February 8, 2021
Wow. I’m in deep awe of this book because it’s the first one I’ve read that’s been about more than just the camera bits of photography. It’s about the connection, the intention, and the growth of collaborating with the camera.
Reading duChemin reminds me that I can write and think about photography in a way that questions principles, and opens conversation rather than always from a place of expertise.
Truly loved this book and have so many notes from it. So much resonated with me and I feel so validated in the depths of my connection with this craft.
Highly recommend for artists and creatives who know and feel that there is more to image making than learning settings and clicking a button.
Reading duChemin reminds me that I can write and think about photography in a way that questions principles, and opens conversation rather than always from a place of expertise.
Truly loved this book and have so many notes from it. So much resonated with me and I feel so validated in the depths of my connection with this craft.
Highly recommend for artists and creatives who know and feel that there is more to image making than learning settings and clicking a button.
October 23, 2025
Wow!! As a new photographer (one year with my camera), I am so thankful a mentor suggested I read David’s new book, “The Soul of the Camera”! I made so many notes from each chapter and will go back to write out nuggets to move my photography to better. I loved this book, reading it throughout our Italian vacation finishing in the Tuscan Countryside. Tomorrow I am so excited to pick up my camera again with a soulful perspective.
April 23, 2019
3.5 stars. I took a lot of notes while reading this and found many of duChemin’s thoughts on craft, creativity, and discipline thought-provoking. I’m not sure I’m a passionate-enough or big-thinking-enough photographer to be his ideal audience (and my photographic genre is completely different than his), but I found this title worthwhile reading, even if not a perfect fit for me.
January 19, 2020
David's best book yet. It challenges you on your approach to photography from the inside, out. It gets to the heart of simply doing your work and doing it with soul. Could apply his words to much more than just photography... this is about loving whatever you put your hand to and working for it with the intent to explore, grow, and master your craft your way.
April 30, 2020
His book is wordy, boring and banal. What has made this book banal are these previous books. In fact, all the subjects covered in this book appear, with different words, in the previous books. In fact, David concedes this in his chapter on vision. He doesn't know what to write anymore for fear of repeating himself... He repeated himself in spite of everything.
It's a pity...
It's a pity...
March 20, 2021
This was exactly the kind of book my soul and mind needed. To focus on mastering my artistic voice more than worrying about technology of the business and trying to strive for perfection. This isn't a "How To" type of book. It's more like a road guide that warns you of the pot holes and bumps, but to also enjoy the ride.
June 23, 2021
Someone on Goodreads has once expressed regret that this book basically covered the same stuff as duChemin's other works. What's funny is that I actually took this as a recommendation and bought it :D. If you are looking for duChemin's one representative work as well - this is something for you.
It reads like a laid back lecture on the nature of creativity, in a good sense. Honestly, it matched my views perfectly. I appreciated that duChemin put the focus on the photographer as an artist but still did not exclude the importance of equipment and craft. Isn't it the best of both worlds?
All in all, I enjoyed reading this book and perusing the beautiful black and white photos :).
It reads like a laid back lecture on the nature of creativity, in a good sense. Honestly, it matched my views perfectly. I appreciated that duChemin put the focus on the photographer as an artist but still did not exclude the importance of equipment and craft. Isn't it the best of both worlds?
All in all, I enjoyed reading this book and perusing the beautiful black and white photos :).
March 28, 2019
Just what I needed
I appreciate this message so much. I’ve been a photographer all my life and this has been a refreshing reminder to take the photographs that matter to me. The advice is good, the voice is clear, and the example photography is completely inspiring.
I appreciate this message so much. I’ve been a photographer all my life and this has been a refreshing reminder to take the photographs that matter to me. The advice is good, the voice is clear, and the example photography is completely inspiring.
May 4, 2019
You can never go wrong with a book by David. I will definitely go back to this book for inspiration in the future. David talks in layman's terms, gives us freedom as creators to explore our art and not get caught up in perfection. Thanks, David!
December 15, 2019
This is finally a book that will help you create stronger and more meaningful photographs. Excellent. Read the book, get a good camera, set it on auto everything, and start to really learn how to be a “photographer.” I’ll reread this book several times.
August 15, 2017
Well, I enjoyed that.
August 14, 2018
David duChemin is a very good photographer but he might just be a better writer. He is an excellent communicator whether in photographs or the written word. This book is highly recommended.
September 22, 2018
Loved it! I could read this everyday.
March 19, 2019
I really enjoyed this book and will keep it on my shelf. I can see myself turning toward it for inspiration and encouragement in the future. Beautiful images and text.
April 3, 2019
I cannot express how much I have been touched and inspired by this book. It hasn't just helped me photographically, but as.a human being.
March 16, 2022
lovely read to understand photography and life in general.
March 21, 2022
Pretty good thoughts on getting back to the essence of photography, and not getting bogged down in the gear. The photos included are pretty amazing as well!
February 1, 2025
"If the camera and its resulting photographs are to have that soul, it will come from us. It is we who put the humanity, the vision and the poetry into our photographs."
Davis duChemin
Davis duChemin
June 24, 2024
A collection of essays about photography focusing more on the photographer than on gear. Refreshing, and deserving of 4 stars just because of that. The 5th goes for the non-BS truths David speaks of. This is a book every photographer should read, especially those who are starting out. I wish I had read it before I even picked up a camera.
March 18, 2022
I've read a lot of the reviews here before writing mine and all I can say is mine would be a culmination of all the other reviews. I've been a photographer for about 14yrs now, and even though I am no longer practicing it professionally or commercially, I can attest to the eloquent prose duChemin portrays and I'm in love with the fact that he encourages the humanity aspect of photography. Master yourself and your thoughts and don't care about technical gear. One of my favorite lines (from so many I've highlighted) from the book is "It is not the sharpness of the image to which people will respond. They will not, one day in the distant future, speak about your stunning histograms." Funny and insiightful.
November 18, 2020
Everybody interested in taking better photos should read it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews