Learning to See: A Photographer’s Guide from Zero to Your First Paid Gigs

by David Molnar

Whether you want to take better photos in your everyday life or make a full-time income as a photographer, author and professional photographer David Molnar shows you where to start. In Learning to See ,?the five-part framework teaches you how It’s a proven process every photographer follows but few talk about. However, if you use it, it will shave years off the learning curve David himself went through as an amateur photographer. Learning to See teaches you to learn to see, because in the end, that’s what a photographer notice what other people often miss and understand how to capture those things in a masterful way.

Genres: Photography, Art, Nonfiction

256 pages, Hardcover

Published September 27, 2022

Reviews

[Barbara Gross · Rating 5 out of 5]

A photographer's guide you will never leave behind!

Wow! I was so blessed to receive an advance copy of Learning To See by David Molnar and could not put it down once I started reading! This book is a must-have resource that helps anyone learn everything we need to know about photography, including the author teaching us how to master our camera and honing in on those skills through lots of practice. This is especially true about learning to see ourselves as a photographer, and finding value in our work so we can work towards earning an income in the niche that we feel most comfortable. The author gives us all the tools we need to learn and be successful. The personal experiences he shares throughout the book gives the readers a glimpse into his inspirational life as a family man, believer, professional photographer, friend, and wonderful mentor to all. I cannot recommend anyone better than David Molnar and his book "Learning to See" who together will teach you everything you need to know about doing what you love.

[Vanessa Nodes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was gifted my first camera and have spent time taking photos in Auto mode. The idea of shooting in manual mode is one I have attempted and am very intimidated by. I looked at all the buttons and quickly became overwhelmed. I’ve tried to use a few resources but wanted something more detailed. I found this book on NetGalley and loved it. What I find different about this book from other resources is the explanations are easy to understand. There are images between explanations and the author explains things in a way that a inexperienced person can understand. It’s definitely a book I will be purchasing on my own to leave my comfort zone and shoot in manual mode. I really recommend this book especially for those who are wanting to dip their finger in taking photos for fun or otherwise and those that are new to the world of photography . He has really great explanations for shooting in manual mode and the reasons why there are more opportunities for better images.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so grateful for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. I always looked at people’s photos and thought “I wish my photos would look like that”. I kept trying while thinking that it wasn’t the auto mode fault but some mistake I did to cause the problem. Turns out that I just didn’t have the information I needed. Learning to See, with its incredible stories, instructions, and advice has started me on a journey long overdue. Since reading this book, I am improving and more confident every time I pick up my camera.

[Kimmie Monson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super helpful for a budding professional photographer!

I've loved his tips and plan to start a photography business. The book was worth the money spent and the time reading.

[Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am beginner and spent all my time with camera on auto mode. Although I enjoying how mesmerizing this tools can make difference, honestly I am feel intimidated to start set it manually.
Learning to See appealing me since the beginning. Author share his journey from zero until people with friendly narrative. He is truly have his ways with storytelling because I enjoyed his background stories as much as his tips and tricks.

This book not much provide us to detail technical on camera but it share the true essentials as beginner photographer. I love all chapters in this book from how to see photo objects and give the best effort to elevate the result. How to use environment surrounding. Mini tips to know basic camera setting. And the most important is how the author encourage readers to applies the skills to business level.

Thank you Netgalley and Harper Horizon for provided my copy. I am learning new skill today and my thoughts are my own.

[Teena in Toronto · Rating 3 out of 5]

I recently retired and now that I have time, I want to get back into photography. I do take a lot of pictures but it's more quick point and shoot with my cell phone. I have three cameras and I want to get back into putting the time into creating photographs. So that's why this book caught my eye ... to get me into that mindset.

I found it was a good reference to get me thinking about charging up the batteries for my cameras and getting out and taking photographs. I didn't find it overly in depth about HOW to use a camera or take photographs ... it was more to get you thinking about becoming a professional photographer and what you needed to think about ... like what kind of photographer do you want to be (ie what kind of pictures ... wedding, landscape, portraits, etc.), setting up a website, getting clients, etc.

Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2022/08...

[stephanie cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I came across the book Learning to See my heart fluttered. I am a beginner with a camera so I am looking for any kind of help I can get.
The book gives great references for beginners and helps to get you in the mind set of becoming a professional photographer and what you needed to think around that idea such as, websites, what kind of photographer - weddings, landscapes, portraits, sports. There are images along with explanations throughout the book, which can come in handy if you learn by seeing. I did find that the book did not go in to too many details about how to use a camera or take photos, I kind of wish it did. All the different settings that cameras come with now and over whelming to say the least. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is thinking of getting into photography.
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC.

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning to See by David Molnar was an incredibly helpful resource! It’s been too long since I pulled out a camera other than my phone and this was the refresher I needed. I loved how his progression takes you from knowing how to “see” things to how to actually compose and then, if needed, how to edit. There were many of his quick tips that stuck with me and as I was shooting pics, I felt like his voice was in my head, reminding me of what to do and what not to do. There is plenty of humor sprinkled throughout that kept it entertaining as well. I loved the pictures he provided to demonstrate accurate angles and lighting. Beyond being a gifted photographer, David is a gifted teacher (the water faucets analogy has been the most helpful explanation ever provided to me). I was so encouraged and inspired, I grabbed my camera, grabbed my daughter, and headed off into the mountains. We played from sunrise to sunset. Thank you for sharing your experience, wisdom, and talents. I absolutely recommend this others who are learning how to operate their cameras and desire to great pictures.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

[Loretta Runyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, I decided to read this one as a refresher course. I figured since I had 2 classes, several online classes and books specific to my cameras, I wouldn't learn anything new.

Well, 3 pages of notes later, I definitely knew I was wrong. There are certain parts of photography that I still struggle with as a hobbyist. Learning to See gave me my ah ha moments. He simplifies and breaks down from shooting to editing.

Whether new in photography or finally getting out there making $, I would highly suggest this book! Easy to understand and follow along. Loved reading about his journey in photography.

[Karen Wodke · Rating 5 out of 5]

LEARNING TO SEE 
I’ve loved photography since I was a young girl and I always wanted to be able to take beautiful pictures (especially of people).When my son was a baby,I bought my first DSLR camera and started taking pictures of him. That was back in the mid-seventies. I found my new camera to be a mystery and struggled to get good shots unless it was set on auto. I looked at a few books, but honestly, the camera was too complicated for me to figure out on my own. I signed up to take a camera course and it helped some, but I still could not get the results I wanted in manual mode. 
Fast forward a lifetime. I got better as time went by. I have some decent shots of my kids growing up and some great vacation pictures, but I have far more bad ones. Cameras became digital so it was a lot easier to practice and my grandchildren have been the best subjects of my efforts. But then, I stumbled on this guy named David Molnar. He did a free webinar on photography and had a site you could join to take courses to learn to use your camera. I joined it and have learned so much. I have loved this camera journey so much. It has helped me to master my camera so much better and to grow in confidence as a photographer. The enthusiasts I’ve met through the community have been such a blessing. I’ve spent hours admiring fellow students‘ work and learning from the experts.
When David announced he had written a book I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. I was so happy to get to read it early and in my opinion- he has written a masterpiece! He has blended his fun, loving personality with personal testimony and professional technique in such a unique way. I found the book hard to put down. It not only inspired me to keep working on my skill, but it also gave me tools to do just that. 
In this book David shares his personal journey as a photographer and the struggles he had to go through to achieve the goal of “professional.” He tells about how his original life plans got tragically altered and how his faith in the Lord Jesus helped guide him into a plan to follow his passion. 
David wasn’t satisfied to just become one of the best and keep the knowledge to himself. He experienced how difficult it can be to learn to use a camera and then turn that knowledge into income. So, he wrote a book to share that knowledge with others. In this book, David skillfully gives technical lessons on how to use the settings on your camera. He simplifies the jargon with easy to use (and remember) illustrations and examples. The book is full of instructions on composition, landscape photography, posing and putting your subjects at ease, and helpful advice on starting a business.
This book is a great starting place for a new camera owner or a great guide to someone that wants to advance their skills or go into business. And it is a fun read to top it off! The layout is user friendly, and the photographs are beautiful. This book is also available in audio format, with David reading his own work. His personality comes through beautifully as he reads. It is well done. This book would be a gift to anyone that owns a camera (even the one on a cell phone). I truly recommend LEARNING TO SEE anyone that takes pictures!
 

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Your new mantra, "I AM the photographer"

All nonfiction books start with an introduction setting a plate to be devoured by the reader’s mind. From the beginning, David Molnar uses the pages for a different purpose, getting you to believe. Read it, and you’ll believe that becoming a professional photographer is just waiting for your accomplishment.

“Learning to See Like a Photographer” is not a tome but a map that step-by-step walks you from the trailhead to the beginning of a personal journey in which you can believe. Molnar is the trail guide to set you on your way.

Molnar’s autobiographical first chapter gives a robust foundation to the inspiration it takes to walk up to the door and say, “I AM the photographer.” At that moment, at the trailhead, you take your first step on the long journey ahead of you.

“Professional photography is a mysterious industry,” Molnar writes in the second chapter. “The successful people tend to hold their information very close to the chest. … And now, the technical stuff I took two years to learn, I could explain in 15 minutes.”

It takes longer than 15 minutes to read, reread and digest “Learning to See,” but Molnar puts the basics like 15-minute milestones along the trail on the journey to professional photography.

By the third chapter, a motivated learner will believe that becoming a professional photographer is a fundamental goal that belongs on the list for 2023. There are aspects of creativity Molnar can’t. However, his writing provides a roadmap to learning how to be creative.

Throughout the book, his theme emphasizes the importance of practice, review, practice, improve. No question taking the journey step-by-step will even make selfies into professional-flavored portraits.

The technical aspects of photography are woven with deeply personal stories. It makes the book one part classroom and one part memoir. Molnar is not just sharing how his life evolved; he’s showing how your life is part of the tapestry of professional photography. Being a professional photographer is not a job; it’s a passion. Once it becomes a job, it’s time to ship the gear to B&H and sell it.

The support materials for the book – audio version, video lessons, companion documents – make this more than merely reading material. The combination of media is telling of the future of learning. No matter your learning style, Molnar delivers the tools for simply the price of a book.

A reader may open the cover out of curiosity but, in the end, will close it as a fledgling professional with all the tools arrayed in front of them. This may be the most important photography training book for the new generation of photographers.

[Janine Hearn · Rating 5 out of 5]

David’s book takes you on a journey to becoming a better photographer in a clear, structured, and easy-to-apply way. At the same time, he tells his own, inspirational, story of pursuing his dream, never giving up, and, ultimately, achieving it.

It is clear from the first chapter that this book is David’s way of sharing all of the knowledge, experience, wisdom, and expertise he has built over his incredibly successful career with others, to support them to succeed. His desire to help others on their path to photography excellence shows through in every page. His book lays out a very clear five-step process to achieving photography excellence and the way he explains those steps makes it easy for the reader to apply them.

But this book is so much more than a photography “how-to” guide. It is also an inspirational story of someone who had a passion, and pursued that passion in the face of huge obstacles, set-backs, and challenges. David weaves his own story of his journey to photography excellence throughout the instruction the book provides. He shares the intimate details of his successes, failures, set-backs, and his perseverance to pursue his dream which can’t help but inspire the reader to want to be the best photographer they can be. Because David shares so much of himself and his journey in this book, this book can’t help but make the reader’s journey to photography excellence that much easier – enabling them to avoid, or more easily navigate, the challenges anyone faces when they strive to be better at something.

Whether you are pursuing photography for profit or pleasure, this book offers so much – step by step instruction to photography excellence, the inspiration to pursue it, and the life lessons that will make your journey so much easier. I am just starting in my pursuit of photography excellence and I feel blessed to have this book to guide me. David’s book is a selfless sharing of everything he has learned along the way to becoming one of the world’s best photographers and I feel so lucky to have been able to learn so much from his journey and his expertise. Never have I read a book where someone shares so much of themselves and their knowledge in what is so obviously a completely selfless desire to help others be better at their craft. Thank you, David, for sharing your journey, and your expertise with me through this book. You have inspired me to follow my own journey to photography excellence and made it so much easier for me to achieve it.

[Frederick C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning to See .. David Molnar Book Review

Learning to See: A very clever title, as becoming a photographer is exactly that, after all.

I first heard about David Molnar from Martina, my daughter-in-law. She gifted me a month of classes at his “The Photo Mentorship” because she had benefited from it so greatly in starting her own photography business. While my interest is neither to photograph people (other than family) nor to make money (I am happily retired), I did take some advantage of that month to improve my nature photography.

My biggest problem, as David recognizes in this book, is that “most beginners just want to go out and shoot.” Sitting down to find out how to change the depth of field so that I could get more than the eye of the dragonfly in focus was a game-changer

With this audiobook, I can listen WHILE I am on the water waiting for the osprey to dive for that fish. When he says something that addresses a question or a concern I have had, I pause to either type or tape record my thoughts or his comment on my phone.

But is the material provided WORTH it?

Again, I need David’s expertise on the mechanical and technical aspects of photography, but I was also quite impressed with David’s:
• EXPERIENCE, which shows in the depth and breadth of anticipating the implications of starting a business—understanding the importance of starting where you are, but moving FORWARD.
• Encouraging photographers to develop a BETA version, as your portfolio and business model WILL BE modified as you gain experience and customers.
• positive reinforcement, both for the photographer and her/his customers.
• suggestions on how to start charging a fee and investing in those things that both free you up for becoming your best photographer, AND by not trying to save money in ways that ultimately cost more down the road.

As a former teacher and coach, I even wish I had read/listened to David’s book BEFORE I retired, for his suggestions on how to manage self and customers would have improved my approach to both.

So, do I benefit in the ways I really want to benefit now—by becoming a better wildlife photographer? YES! I now:
• manage the depth of field so that I can get the entirety of what I want to show IN FOCUS;
• save MUCH time by following David’s advice on post-production;
• much more.

I still “just want to go out there and shoot,” but I can be both more effective and efficient for having listened to David’s fine book—twice (so far).

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honored to be one of the first to be able to read this incredible book. I was familiar with David Molnar as I had taken an online course of his but am always a little leery about instructional books. This book is an instructional book filled with great instruction and tips, but it's far more than that. It's a story about one man's journey to become a photographer...one that would be taken seriously. The thing I liked most about this book is that the author left the EGO out of the story and out of instructions. The book reads as it is meant to, I believe...like a book written by someone who really wants you to learn to do all that he is teaching you and it feels like he really wants you to succeed. You will learn a process to success in a thoroughly enjoyable and easy to follow way.

Just as we teach our children to SEE themselves making that hoop shot with a basketball before they shoot it, David teaches us the settings that allow us to SEE the perfect photo that we want others to see and cherish as we do before we shoot.

The title of this book is perfect, and it teaches just what it implies. And for me, as I am teaching my 9-year-old granddaughter to use a camera, this book is perfect as she is doing just that...Learning to See through that lens. She sees so much already with her natural talent and eye for a shot, I feel that reading this book is going to help me to help her as well as myself become so much better with lots of great ideas and knowledge of settings.

And it's not just straight-out instructions...David writes (and speaks if you get the audiobook) in a thoughtful and informal way so that you'll remember each important point.

So, if you want to be a professional photographer or just learn to be better with your own camera, there is something in this book for everyone. You will probably never not feel guilty about putting your camera on an automatic setting again after reading this!! I look at shots I've taken in automatic mode that I thought were great and now wonder how much better they would be had I used settings that David teaches in this book!!

Great read and if you know anyone who is a photography buff, they would probably love getting this for Christmas. And if you are teaching a child...THIS IS YOUR BOOK. Great reference to use anytime.

[Lynda Nielsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have recently been given the privilege of getting an early release copy of David Molnar’s “Learning To See” book. What a privilege it was to be able to read this book. There are so many instructional books about photography out there, but this one is just different. There is so much more than just photography guides and secrets.

The author starts out saying “I was never supposed to be a photographer”. Boy was he wrong!
Right from the first chapter, you will be drawn in.
The journey of David Molnar is both motivating and captivating. I wasn’t able to put the book down. I will admit that I read it all in one evening. This book was powerful, emotional, honest, and raw. The techniques that are shared here are broken down into such simple, understandable instructions that anyone interested in photography can easily relate and understand. So, whether you’re a beginner or novice, you will thoroughly enjoy this book.

While reading “Learning To See” you will be taken on the authors journey into photography, from the start, the struggles, the trials, the wins, and the whole time you will feel like you can relate. When he wins, you feel like you also win.

The lesson portion of the book, is so simple and easy to understand, and the artwork and images describing things are so well done. This is a true guide book, that anyone would want to keep nearby while they are learning. It is wonderfully written. David Molnar left nothing out. So many times, it seems that photographers tend to keep their best photography secrets to themselves. That is not the case here. This book tells all… “Learning To See” oozes with the passion and devotion that David Molnar has for photography, and his willingness and desire to help others who want to learn.

When you’re finished reading, you will have gained a true inside look at who David Molnar is, as well as having learned the foundational instructions on becoming a REAL photographer. From mastering your camera, to starting a business if you so choose. This book has it all. The sky’s the limit! I strongly recommend the read. You won’t regret it.

If I could give this book more than a 5 star rating, I’d do it in a heartbeat.

[Kendra Jowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the would-be photographer: whether you’re looking to take better photos of your family, the hobbyist photographer, or the aspiring professional…. THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU!
It is not often you will find someone in the photography world willing to share “industry secrets” to help other people build in their skill level, confidence, and maybe even into building an eventual business, but David Molnar is literally an open book on the things that work (and those that don’t).
There are moments in this book that made me laugh (dad jokes are plentiful!), moments that inspired me, and even moments that made me cry. It was so easy to fly through the chapters because I felt more like David was having a private conversation with me on how to be successful much more than I felt like I was reading an instruction manual or guide. That said, this book is THOROUGH. From skill and confidence building to getting your first paid gig as a professional photographer (if that’s what you want to eventually reach), there is no stone left unturned. The way that David breaks down some pretty difficult concepts into easy to understand terms makes the task of moving from auto mode on your camera (aka “devil mode”) to full manual control less daunting and intimidating.
I couldn’t put the book down. I wanted to know ALL THE SECRETS…. And David Molnar totally delivered, 190%... and while I could go on and on about how amazing this book is, I’ll end this review with this note: I have loved photography my whole life. I always looked at photographers and thought “man, if I could just have their eye, I could do that too!” and this book has allowed me to do just that, how to SEE like a photographer! Most of all it has allowed me to believe that I too can pursue a career as a photographer with a little bit of elbow grease and a whole lot of faith. Thank you David Molnar for this amazing book!

[Janne Cullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! Just Wow!! David Molnar’s book, Learning to See is hands down the best photography instructional book I have ever read. He had my complete interest from the first page and throughout the entire book. David breaks down the technical side of photography into straightforward terms, with great visual aids which easily drive his point home. For years I tried to understand the technical side of my camera. I purchased books specific to my camera, photography books and others in hopes of learning how to work all the bells and whistles of manual mode, but the terms, fractions, numbers etc. always overwhelmed me. I would walk into camera stores full of questions, but too embarrassed by my lack of knowledge to ask. The techniques he shares are simple, understandable, and relatable. David is honest and often raw in his stories of the struggles and experiences he went through as a young photographer, weaving his words masterfully and with delightful humor mixed in. Learning to See is a motivating and exciting read, full of real time valuable information. Whether you are a beginning photographer or more advanced, if you shoot as a hobby, or want to do more as a photographer, this book is for you. From learning to use your camera, to seeing a story vs a snapshot, to learning how to start your own photography business, should that be your goal, this book encapsulates all of that! I highly recommend David Molnar’s Learning to See!

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was privileged to receive this book in advance of its publication date.
Author David Molar is a photography genius and an
incredible mentor who shares his knowledge, passion and
personal experiences in this superbly written 'tell-all'. If you
have been trying to figure out your fancy camera and how to
shoot in manual mode, but just didn't have an idea on how to
get past your fear of failure, then look no further! Molnar
breaks down exactly what you need to know to feel
confident holding that camera (that you spent a fortune on
because IT would produce the best pictures) in your hands.
He helps you 'see' like a photographer, as well as explains
settings and the exposure triangle. I can now produce the
pictures I want because I understand what I need to do with
my camera! He continues to explain how to edit so that your
pictures look the way you saw them with your eyes along
with the emotion you felt when you took the picture. David
Molar shares his insight based on his years in the business.
He guides us through the aspects of starting a photography
business and how to build a clientele. This is the book to
buy, read and absorb whether you want to be a hobby
photographer or a professional photographer. Do NOT
hesitate to buy one for yourself and everyone you know who has a dream of mastering their camera!

[Amber Haga · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished listening to the audio version of Learning to See and I was pleasantly surprised to find it not only is very relatable but also very needed in the world today. David mentions in the book how it seems as though many photographers do not want to share their knowledge with other photographers to help them succeed. It's a breath of fresh air to hear David (in his own voice no less) openly share his struggles and what he has learned through his experience as a photographer. I have enjoyed photography for most of my life and have had some paying gigs but no schooling. I have learned mostly by trial and error like David. I am so happy to have a simpler way to understand how to use manual mode, along with a lot of other great information that David covers in his book. I cannot wait to get my hands on the hard copy and read it again while trying out his techniques on my Canon. I enjoyed this book so much and read it quicker than I have read a book in a long time. I really enjoyed hearing David's personal story, how his faith has played a role in his life, and how encouraging he is to anyone who wants to use a camera whether professionally or as a hobby. Thank you for writing such a great story and resource David! Praying God uses you and this book to bless and encourage others!

[Vickie Mattern · Rating 5 out of 5]

David Molnar’s book, Learning to See A Photographer’s Guide From Zero to Your First Paid Gigs, is the ultimate guide to photography whether you’re, “…picking up your camera for the first time” or “building a self-satisfying hobby or a lucrative career” (David Molnar, 2022). David openly and honestly shares his personal journey from his early struggles to get paying jobs, to becoming an on-demand professional, as he guides his readers through their own journeys in a relaxed, conversational narrative. The many examples, personal anecdotes, and humor help readers feel like they are not alone in the journey to becoming photographers. His writing is like having a conversation with a close friend.
As Molnar shares his vulnerability in becoming a world class photographer, he breaks down the necessary steps - from how to use a camera through seeing yourself as a photographer - into clear, understandable nuggets through examples and an abundance of photos which make things perfectly clear.
In Learning to See David Molnar provides a road map through your personal photography journey – whether professionally or as a hobby – to becoming the BEST photographer you can be! I know I will refer to it throughout my journey, bookmarking, highlighting, and maybe even dog-earring pages. This is, in my opinion, the best photography book on the market!!

[Kathy Shields · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally a photography book that everyone can understand!

Wow is mostly what I can say! It's a book that makes it simple to understand how to master your camera in manual mode. Plus all the ingredients to compose and create a great story through photography. David Molnar, author of Learning to See, breaks down what you need to know to become the best photographer you can be and your camera will become second nature. He also makes it a fun read to keep you engaged. By the end the book, you'll not only know what it takes to be a photographer, you'll know David Molnar. He's put his heart into this book, with compassion he has with wanting everyone to be the best photographer they can be. Regardless if you are a hobbyist or someone who wants to do photography professionally. This book is for you. Either path is a good choice, you decide. This book is a starting point, the meat and potatoes is the community he's built. His knowledge and willingness to give freely to all who is interested in improving their skills to become the best photographer they want to be is quite impressive. The bonus with this book, is access to website to further enforce what he is teaching in this book. Who knows, maybe we'll see you at one of our next workshops or Huddles!


Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

[Virginia Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Learning to See" is an AMAZING book! This photography book is like no other, I promise that! I have read other photography books trying to gain knowledge and hone the craft, but they have always been dry like reading a dictionary. They were great with technical information, but couldn't reach the person reading them. David Molnar did an outstanding job writing this book. It is the best of both worlds, you don't get tired of reading it. He gives you personal insight into his life, his struggles, his successes and how he got to where he is with a sense of humor. He gives you all of the knowledge that other technical photography books do, BUT in a way that makes sense! He uses analogies that make you actually SEE, opened up my eyes and made concepts stick that I hadn't been able to get before. He seems like a salt of the earth type of guy and I love that he is actually trying to help other photographers make it! I appreciate that he can relate to the real struggles everyone else faces and is VERY inspiring and encouraging! I also appreciate and think it says a lot about his character that he thanks everyone on his team right down to the little guys/gails and realizes it takes a village to keep all of the wheels turning to make him successful. I hope one day to meet him and shake his hand to say thank you!

[Jeanne Takenaka · Rating 5 out of 5]

For years, I’ve listened to David Molnar’s classes on learning how to capture portraits and landscapes and how to edit photos. I was curious how a photographer would pour his natural gifting into words.

I so enjoyed this book! Molnar begins by sharing about how because of an auto accident, he lost a college scholarship . . . and his opportunity to attend college. But, what he has become through photography has fulfilled dreams he didn’t know he had in those early days of learning the craft.

Molnar shares both his journey to becoming a renowned photographer and practical tips and skills for people who want to up their photography game. He also shares how to begin a photography business, for those who want to do this.

Written with nods to God, Molnar shares his mistakes as well. No one is perfect, especially in the beginning. I grinned as I read some of the things he did, but his stories also encouraged me in the areas where I’m pursuing my dreams. The practical explanations he gives are helpful, even for inexperienced photographers like me.

This isn’t just a how-to book, but it’s a book that shares heart. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to hear how someone who’s “made it big” in the photography world, how he did it, and who also want to learn how to up their photography chops.

I truly enjoyed and learned from this book!

[Colorado Mountain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you are just pondering the art of photography, or are advanced in your photography skills, this book has something to offer you!

In Learning to See, David Molnar provides a concise, yet, easy to understand explanation of each topic accompanied by several pictures to demonstrate what he envisioned for the shot and the technique(s) he used to achieve it. Perhaps one of the most useful aspects of this book is that David shows how an ordinary snapshot can be transformed into an amazing photograph with simple compositional and technical techniques. Transitioning from using your DSLR's auto mode to mastering the manual mode is practically effortless with David's instruction.

One of the things that makes this book exceptional is how David gracefully integrates his own story and personal journey to becoming a world-class professional photographer. Sharing his trials, tribulations, and successes along the way, thus, making this book 100% relatable to anyone who ever wanted to become a photographer. Thank you, David Molnar, for sharing your extra-ordinary talents and giving aspiring photographers the ability to “See”.

Regardless of your skill level, if you have an interest in photography, you need to read this book!

[Max Presnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

All Photographers Need To Read This!!!

David Molnar is a World Class Photographer and takes you on a journey through his book that is inspirational, motivating, encouraging, and provides you with information that will allow you to become a better photographer. This book is great for the beginner and the more advanced photographer as it provides in-depth information on how to use your camera as a hobbyist or a professional. For the beginning photographer who wants to learn the basics of what ISO, Aperture, and Shutter Speed are, it provides information on how to use these settings and why they should be used to make your pictures better. The more advanced photographer who wants to learn about Editing or Making Money as a professional photographer the information provided in the book will get you on the right path to your dreams. There is valuable information in the final chapters of the book that will help you get started on the right path so you are able to continue to that next level in your journey as a photographer. I believe "Learning to See" is the BEST Photography book I have ever read as it is designed to help the beginner and advanced photographers who want to learn more about their camera, storytelling, or making money in the world of photography.

[Machelle Stratton · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! I do not even know where to start, so let me begin with a HUGE THANK YOU David Molnar. Thank you for sharing your life experiences with me the reader and for being a wonderful mentor. I knew from the first webinar I watched that you would be more than a teacher. I have learned so much more from TPM than from any other course or books.

There are so many informational books out there for photographers to learn more about photography and the industry. However, I have found most of these books are filled with difficult terminology, which takes away from the ability to understand the concepts. The way "Learning to See" is written makes it a fun and enjoyable book. The reader learns photography techniques in an easy simple straight forward method. I remember the first time I heard you used the analogy, of how light flowing into your camera is just like water flowing into a glass, it made so much sense to me.
Thank you for sharing your life and knowledge through this book

[Christine Loose-Randall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have purchased several books on how to perfect your photography. They sit on my shelf and collect dust. NOT THIS ONE. I was fortunate to be able to read this before the book is on the market for purchase. The first paragraph pulls you in. The curtains are opened and you get an insight into David Molnar the person and how an accident changed the whole course of his path in life.
David is excellent at explaining the mechanics of your camera. It doesn't matter if you shoot with a Canon, Sony, or Nikon.
Theory is explained and followed by practical application. David makes you SEE yourself as a photographer and the difference it makes to have that mindset. Following David's 5 step rules will help you fulfill your dream. This book is a great resource if you are shooting as a hobby or as a full-time professional photographer. David gives you the tools you need to get your business up and running. You won't be disappointed purchasing this book. Invaluable.

[Janet Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah-Mazing!!! Thank you, David, for the incredible book/resource. This is a phenomenal book for beginners, for intermediates, and for advanced-ers. Not only is this a fun read with lovely storytelling (thanks for showing us your heart), it is inspirational, motivational, and educational! All will enjoy it and you will be as hooked as I am!

Now... I am a semi-intermediate photographer. I take photos for my own pleasure - sometimes for sharing with others - but it is my joy in life. I got this book so that I can learn more about my camera, "learning to see" as a photographer, and learning from others so that I can have even more joy! This book absolutely lived up to my expectations of being easy to read, having explanations that are fundamental yet not over my head, and sharing EVERYTHING that David knows - that alone is worth thousands!!!

Again... THANK YOU DAVID!!!

[Laurie Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS is the real dream!
David had to learn the hard way how to navigate the world of photography and has made it his mission to mentor others and set them on a simpler path to pursue their passion and achieve their dreams! In this book you will learn how to take amazing professional photos and, if it is your chosen path, how to make photography a successful career. David clearly feels every word he wrote in this book and his passion is inspiring and contagious! He delivers his personal story along with clear and easy to understand instruction, advice and counsel with humor and a few not-so-great Dad jokes that you can’t help but chuckle (or roll your eyes)! You will not “Learn to See” or take pictures like a pro anywhere else for the price of this book. If you haven’t ordered it yet, what are you waiting for?!?

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having been taught and mentored by David and his crew for a while now, I knew that the book was probably going to be awesome, and I was not wrong!! This book was not only a story of a great photographer and how he got his start, but he has also shares lots of information that is so helpful! If you are already a photographer, or a beginner wanting to learn more, this book is definitely for you! David always has a way of bringing it to your level, whatever that may be!! A must read for any genre of photography!

I sometimes have a saying when I’m just not getting something, “ok, break out the crayons!” Haha! Well this book makes it easy for anyone to understand, and definitely “breaks out the crayons!” Which is nice since a lot of instructional books get very technical at times, making it hard to actually learn from what you’re reading!! Way to go David, you nailed it!!