Child reading a book surrounded by extended family, enjoying the moment.

photo by: Meagan Shuptar

Recommended Books for

Photographers by Photographers

Summer is beckoning, and what better way to bask in its warmth than with a stack of captivating books, recommended by fellow photographers who understand the power of a well-told story and a beautifully captured moment?

Whether you’re seeking inspiration, technical know-how, or simply a delightful escape, these handpicked reads are sure to accompany you on your sunny adventures, igniting your creativity along the way.

Let’s dive into this list of recommended books for photographer by photographers. 

The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

I set out to write a book about what to do to make a great work of art. Instead, it revealed itself to be a book on how to be.” —Rick Rubin

Recommended by: Mariangela Quiroga

The Photography Workshop Series Bundle by Apature

Each book features the creative process and core thinking of a photographer told in their own words and through pictures of their choosing, and is introduced by a well-known student of the featured photographer.

Recommended by: Meagan Shuptar

The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp 

One of the world’s leading creative artists, choreographers, and creator of the smash-hit Broadway show, Movin’ Out, shares her secrets for developing and honing your creative talents—at once prescriptive and inspirational.

Recommended by: Alexandra Rowley

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron 

 The Artist’s Way phenomenon has inspired the genius of Elizabeth Gilbert and millions of readers to embark on a creative journey and find a deeper connection to process and purpose.

Recommended by: Alexandra Rowley

The Photographer’s Playbook by Jason Fulford

The Photographer’s Playbook features photography assignments, as well as ideas, stories and anecdotes from many of the world’s most talented photographers and photography professionals. Whether you’re looking for exercises to improve your craft—alone or in a group—or you’re interested in learning more about the medium, this playful collection will inspire fresh ways of engaging with photographic process.

Recommended by: Barbara Minishi

Hold Still by Sally Mann

The Photographer’s Playbook features photography assignments, as well as ideas, stories and anecdotes from many of the world’s most talented photographers and photography professionals. Whether you’re looking for exercises to improve your craft—alone or in a group—or you’re interested in learning more about the medium, this playful collection will inspire fresh ways of engaging with photographic process.

Recommended by: Amanda Suarez

PhotoWork: Forty Photographers on Process and Practice by Sasha Wolf

PhotoWork is a collection of interviews by forty photographers about their approach to making photographs and, more importantly, a sustained body of work. 

Recommended by: Angela DeCenzo

Have a recommendation to add, drop it in the comments below!