Photographer's Guide to the Panasonic Lumix LX5 Book Review

While searching for a used Panasonic Lumix LX5 on Ebay, I came across a camera package that was missing the original user manual. However, the owner stated the book Photographer’s Guide to the Panasonic Lumix LX5 was included. Though I don’t remember the exact quote, he said something to the effect of “This book is an improvement over the real manual anyway.” Though I ended up getting a LX5 with all original paperwork, I still remembered that recommendation. Now that I have have read Alexander White’s book, I agree with the opinion of the Ebay seller. Read on to find out why.

The Photographer’s Guide is easier to digest than, well... a manual. White’s style makes it easy to follow along and  understand confusing differences. Although the writer has a relatively serious tone, the Photographer’s Guide doesn’t read like a dry textbook. Helpful explanations and hints are dispersed throughout the book. For instance, I would have never considered using the scene mode Starry Sky for other situations where a long exposure is needed. While the manual only explains how to do something, White explains why something should or could be done.

The level of detail is very thorough, and then some! The book includes all menus, settings, hardware controls, and modes that the manual includes plus two appendices covering accessories (filters, cases, etc) and quick tips. The book is arranged in a logical order, starting with the most basic levels and ending with most advanced.

This text is supplemented by many photos. These include photos of the menus, parts of the camera being discussed, and sample shots showing the differences made by different settings.

All in all, intermediate and beginning photographers will benefit most from this book. This book has opened my eyes to features that I wouldn't have considered and a few tricks that I likely wouldn't have used or picked up on my own. However, advanced enthusiast photographers may not learn many new tricks.

Note: The Photographer’s Guide to the Panasonic Lumix LX5 was published when the first firmware version, 1.0, was available. Since the firmware version 2.0 has added several features and changes, White has posted an free PDF addendum on his website. Look under Updates and Corrections.

Product Info

Price:	$9.95 ebook, $23.68 paperback on Amazon
Publisher: Author: ISBN:	White Knight Press Alexander S. White 978-0964987593
Pros:	Easy to read and follow, tips and tricks throughout
Cons:	Too basic for some advanced photographers