DON'T Buy my Photography Book - DO THIS INSTEAD!

[@karenbergmann209]

I hike a lot and have made photo books every year for the past 8 years or so. I choose different themes each year, even though the images are mostly Forest and trails. For 2020 and 2021 I wrote more of a story how my life changed during the pandemic. I can also see how much better my photos have become over the years. These books are for me. Some day, when I can no longer hike, I can look back and enjoy the memories. I have used Picaboo for all my projects and they’ve been fabulous!

[@paulasimson4939]

Okay, you've inspired me to once and for all make a photo book for myself.

[@michaelreiningmedia]

Great episode. And I can't echo strong enough what a great company Saal Digital is. I had them create a photobook for me, more as a trial and I was so impressed. I love the photo book I made with them. I will do it again.

[@Kirklander72]

Nigel, you have become a precious value in my life!!!! Inspiration!!!

[@dhwardphoto]

That was spot on Nigel. I had never seen any of my images in print and I had seen an Insta post by Saal offering £100 voucher to get a book printed, which I applied for and got accepted. I was seriously blown away by the book I received, not just by the quality of the book itself, which was outstanding like you mentioned, but also how good my images looked, they definitely took on a new dimension! It's such a nice thing to show people in person. In fact I'm off to dig it out right now! 😀

[@martharetallick204]

Saal does good work. Highly recommend them.

[@karlmannaerialvideography9756]

I have an Epson p900 A2 printer...the prints are stunning from that machine

[@quarkyman1]

Same. Saal do a great job.

[@hjones451]

SAAL asked me for £10 a month, before ordering - An amateur would need to create so many books - I don't sell, so stuck with snapfish

[@hjones451]

I'm not disputing Saal's professional quality for Professional photographers.

[@awoodswalkphotography]

Very inspirational, Nigel. Thank you for that push!

[@nealschneider6554]

You are so right about the difference between seeing your photos on a computer screen versus printing them. I had been enjoying all of my digital photos only on my iPad. But, I recently took a special photo tour of a local cavern. I liked some of the photos I took, so I splurged and had 4 printed on aluminum to hang in our outdoor area. Seeing my photos in print, 2 are 20x30 and 2 are 24x36, absolutely blew me away.

[@Francisco.Rizzuti]

That was an amazing video of your book Nigel! I had to stop and watch it 3 times! The way you connect video with the actual photos is extremely eye catching! Congrats!

[@karinvandroogenbroeck6780]

Wonderful footage. Collaboration with Rick: excellent idea !!! You keep surprising us. The definition of a great entrepreneur: being resiliant and inventive. I followed you the last 2 years and I am so glad to have you as my silent partner on my photography- journey.

[@markelroy7774]

Wow, Nigel this is an incredible video. Your message is dynamic and so on point!

[@fredkrieger278]

Nigel - so glad you're back on line. Take care of your back and I know too well how awful the pain can be. Thanks for the book creation motivation.

[@tonyhayes9827]

Love the idea of collaboration (with your friend Rik) on these types of videos. Brilliant.

[@jonponder3283]

Hi Nigel. I have just ordered my first book . Thanks for arranging discount code. Can’t wait to get the book in my hands

[@esjovold6572]

I’ve done one photo book a few years ago. I should get to work and do another one. I really enjoy looking at my photos in it. I agree seeing your photos printed is a great way to experience them.

[@randyschwager2515]

I just printed my first photo book. You are 100% correct! What a great feeling when I unboxed it!

[@tonydesarzec907]

Great video. I only ever use Saal when I get a book printed up. In fact I did one very recently. The quality is always stunning.

[@dansteensland2580]

Thanks for the tips, Nigel. I’ve been thinking about this for a while.

[@steveboys5369]

It will be good to see more of your ideas, and with contributions from Rick too. Another interesting video, thanks for sharing.

[@cmichaelhaugh8517]

I did a book early in my career and have been trying to find the time for a second for several years. You are absolutely correct that it really improves your skills.

[@josephstanski5180]

Great video and learning about publishing your own photo book - Thank you Nigel.

[@karenrobinson3805]

Great to see and hear you are improving health wise. Looking forward to viewing future offerings - thank you again for sharing- truly appreciate…

[@adrian_div_photography]

Ripper video nigel and great timing for me as a I just got back from an amazing Canadian rockies holiday with intention to create a book! Thanks for the tips!

[@johnmurray5732]

Thanks Nigel, I have a similar approach but with calendars instead of photo books

[@gailmager4147]

Thx for the tips on making a book, hardest part I think is selection and story telling. I have made a few books. And made some for gifts, people loved them.

[@billmacier3703]

Nice challenge and reminder. Our household is not short of photo books but I just realized that I have not made one for myself showcasing my favorites or developing a theme, sequence etc. as you suggest. Many are genealogy books as that is my wife's passion and several trips and life stories. I have been the fill in guy with "I need a photo of this" or "Could you try to edit this photo to improve it for printing" and some of my photos do end up in several of the books. However, the point I hear you making is I need to do this for myself to create my own challenges and stories and potentially improve my photographic abilities. Thanks for the video.

[@terrigarcia3159]

Great video. You gave me another way to think about my photography. I have been doing photo books for the past few years and now I’m thinking of starting a collection through the years. Thanks and continue to get better and have longer walks.

[@jerryhutchinson2543]

Great sentiment! I do a number of books a year based around themes such as landscapes, wildlife, holidays, family events, miscellaneous images andf the technical photos I do on motorcycles. It's such a thrill to see the finished books

[@treyfoerster6468]

Another wonderful vid, thank you for the insights and the discount!

[@mariebird01]

Oh my goodness, for more than two years now, I've been collating my 'daily-captured images' from the extraordinary year of 2020, with a book in mind!! Talk about timely synchronistic events! I have the Title, cover, page design. I circulated PDFs of the best few hundred images to a dozen or so of my friends/family, for them to choose their personal preferences, marking them 'good, better, best'. And this very week, with the changing season, brings more time for me to finally put the book together. Thank you for your timely video and the perfect information and spur of inspiration! Thank you, Nigel, once more!

[@shs1592]

Hi Nigel, I just loved joining you in this session - I am one of many photo fans that not only follow your work but now have added your Seascapes book to my photography library. Seascapes sits prominently on my coffee table alongside such other great favorites . Happily surprised to be thanked, from you, and included with the so many others for the support of your book - you are truly generous - your enthusiasm and lessons are so inspiring and have encouraged me to not only print my own work - but purchase my own Pro-printer - getting it off the screen and onto paper - amazing! Thank you for taking me (in more ways then one) to these beautiful places! Karen Kristopher California Fan

[@christopherbeckerdite4273]

I'm also working through a book. Thank you for your insight.

[@SanDhonsi]

Seeing your photos in print is amazing feeling; I got a book made from the photos I took at my old job (Theme Park). Then also did one of photos taken from a war event with a 35mm slr.

[@sander5086]

5 months after the release, he tells us not to buy the book😂😂. Houston we have a problem, but I'm really happy with it👍

[@RadAlzyoud]

Thanks Nigel for sharing your experience and thoughts. Looking forward to your next projects.

[@paulbenson3441]

We hope you're keeping well and your back is on the mend. I'm planning to retire later this year. I'm 69 and I've decided to call it a day and work on my photography more; this is what I enjoy doing. When I bought my camera I felt it was the bees knees. A simple bridge camera with a fixed variable focal length lens. As I used it more and more and gained confidence I realised that one day I would need to buy a more professional camera. I have learned down the years that the limitations in my camera meant I had to work harder and to be more aware and I think that has been a benefit. I think I'm going to stay with my bridge camera to see how far I can take it. I never considered a book and maybe that is something I can think about. I've no plans to be a professional photographer, I think I'm a wee bit late for that, but I want to try hard to be a good amateur. I take a lot of pleasure in my photography, I hope I can share that in the future. Best wishes to Pebbles.

[@leeannenquist6289]

Enjoyed this video so much. Great content and advice. Looking forward to seeing the new content!

[@heikebrtkwk4069]

Absolute inspiring video Nigel, thank you !!!

[@glynparry6598]

Really helpful and the future sounds exciting. Thanks for the video 🙏

[@karlmannaerialvideography9756]

What a great inspirational video and thank you Nigel.

[@scarcesense6449]

Great advice. Nothing sharpens the focus like knowing you are creating a permanent, real world object. When it's just sitting on a hard drive or on social media on a tiny phone screen, the detail or editing never seems all that important. I spent a large amount of time editing a collage of images for a giant 2000 piece jigsaw puzzle and the selection process certainly raised my standards over what I consider a worthy photo - even if my day to day captures aren't that much better.

[@johngoossensphotography]

Love this video and actually made a few books after one of your earlier video’s on the topic. All you say is so true and it is so rewarding to receive the copy in the post.

[@samuelequaranta1108]

Nice inspiring video Nigel! The clip about your book is just astonishing! From the editing to the voice over, just wow!

[@NigelDanson]

Thanks - really pleased you liked it

[@ExploringCanadaInfo]

I love the first few minutes of this video, I will probably watch it over and over. Your voice! The views! Thank you! 👋🇨🇦 Also loved the insight about making our own photo books, and how culling creates the opportunity for self-reflection and improvement. Gold!

[@NigelDanson]

Glad you liked it!

[@jeg569]

Beautiful photos in your book Simon. During the first lockdown when I was furloughed for 3 months, I learned InDesign enough to produce 3 A4 year books of my blog, it was great to see them in print.

[@dannyhead5287]

Great information. I've considered printing a book and this helps.

[@tonyfazio575]

Great video and awesome shirt. I’ve got one myself. Thanks Nigel.

[@NikonDave]

Thanks Nigel. One of these days I'll finish mine. Going from capturing moments to telling a story through photographs has been the most challenging project I've ever undertaken and it's been on the shelf for a while. Videos like yours are part of the kick in the pants I need to finish. Great to see you up and about again. Cheers!

[@georgemason2472]

Yep. You talked me into making a photobook then when I started looking through my images and seeing the flaws, you talked me out of it! 🙂

[@doncason6108]

You’re an inspiration. Thank you! Looking forward to your new video’s.

[@gerryphilpott9766]

Very nice episode. Thanks for the reminder to create something of my own. Looking forward to seeing more ahead with you and Rick.

[@Myles995]

Thank you so much for this, I have been debating this very thing

[@GkPhotographic]

you are an inspiration as always , now a media Guru . Be safe from Dublin Eire

[@alanclark9691]

Good and helpful advice Nigel. Thanks.

[@mayhamilton6652]

What a cracking video. I loved the Seascapes part. Absolutely stunning filmography. Great encouragement for us starter photographers too! Thank you!

[@craigmaisfield3247]

Great advise. I have used Saal Digital and as you say. Brilliant company and products. 👍

[@josephschimmer302]

So true! I have started some years ago doing books. My biggest learning was, that it’s not about arranging all the pictures that I have considered being worth it, but to tell a strong story.

[@rogertebb1997]

A big thanks for going into this subject Nigel. It’s both daunting and inspirational and, after watching this, more approachable. I really love your channel.

[@davidcrighton3431]

A timely reminder for a similar idea, which also improves your photography. Make up a family calendar to give as Christmas presents. They are usually well appreciated, especially if there are young children growing up fast.

[@engineeringphotographer]

Love Rick is on board, epic opening to a video 🙌 I feel I'm too new to photography but a book is definitely on the cards in due course

[@raymondjmetcalfe2927]

Thank you Nigel for the inspiration. As always your content is always useful and inspiring now I need to get my boots on pack my gear for a day out

[@davidforeman8939]

Hi Nigel, Great advice, I feel inspired to go out and start my own book project right now. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@allanosantiago5955]

Thanks for your suggestion Nigel. I have been contemplating on that for quite sometime. But I guess, my challenge is still organizing my photos, like you said it should "tell a story". Plus not to mention a lot of them still needs to undergo post editing. Hopefully I get to complete them in time. I'd let you know once I have realized that goal. More power to your channel. I have subscribed. 🥰

[@gabrielecaredda2283]

Gotta thank you for this Nigel.. I've had a thought on the back of my mind for some time.. Watching this video made me realize what this idea was and I am now motivated to put it in place! A small thank you from me

[@andy_crane]

Great video and so true. One long term project of mine is book related, something that definitely keeps me motivated too 😃

[@robertwhitemoto]

Absolutely want to do this... How to narrow it down... I have so much, including Antarctica... :) Thanks for this Nigel. Great to see you feeling better.

[@davchow8124]

Great subject matter! We don’t know what we have until we produce our photos in printed form. I’m fortunate enough to be a graphic designer and having a sense of design laying out were it capture the flow and rhythm of the book. One must first understand the relationship between text, and photos on the page of the book. Theses are the most important factors in making your book sparkle.👍 “Happy Trails .” 🍺

[@steves8661]

I started producing books during lockdown, I now do one per year split in to months when the pictures were shot. I also produce a book in we go away so far I've got a Lake District Scotland and Wales books on the shelf along with the 2020 & 2021 books. Great advice in this video to help me in producing better books

[@Nils.steiner]

That intro was awesome! Well done Nigel & Rick!

[@NigelDanson]

Thanks Nils

[@janmaren5633]

Great video, looking forward to next week episode! Stay safe

[@paultaylor6252]

I’ve created a couple of annuals via photobox over the last few years as a mixture of family photos and landscapes etc. This has really given me the inspiration to try a fully fledged landscapes book. Thanks for the video and discount code!

[@MsPernickety]

I have made several books now as I was worried that my photographic work would end up in the data landfill when I pass on. At least my grandchildren might like to see what Granny did.

[@rogerwalton8160]

I'm in my summer trough - roll on late Autumn/Winter - much more photographic.

[@heathermtaylor7683]

Morning Nigel, glad to see you looking so well and, hopefully not in too much pain. Love the book idea. Been thinking for ages about this with dogs. Thank you - feels like a welcome nudge. 😊

[@finomrs]

I use Saal for everything I print. I'm printing photobooks for my Landscape and Macro photography, I've done one per year, I love seeing my images on paper, and compare how my skills developed trough the years.

[@kev4393]

BRILLIANT, wonderful piece of marketing, but what great advice seriously Nigel, you have inspired me with this, and i think it is very motivational. Delighted to see your last operation has been successful. really looking forward to your new journey in photography. How is Pebbles doing? Wishing you all the very best and will continue to be subscribed to this wonderful channel.

[@john_norris]

Hi Nigel, I've always wanted to make a photo book, not because I am a good photographer by any means, but simply to see a particular collection of photos, either by year or theme, that represent my efforts. I am facing three months of being immobile. I am hoping that I'll have the strength during post op convalescence to sort my LR collections to achieve this goal. Good luck to you and your new videographer!

[@davidmill7289]

Great advice Nigel. I’m planning a photo book of Mersea Island and will have a look at Saal. It’s a great way of compiling special images. Seascapes looks fab!

[@davidreagan2830]

Photobooks are fun. I've only made a couple, but I've been wanting to make a new one. Just haven't been out shooting very much for the past year or so... Also it's nice to know that Saal-Digital are good. I've used them a couple times, and liked the results, but hear a pro say they're good is nice. If you haven't already, you should try their metal prints. I've had a couple turn out really neat.

[@bradw7084]

You're right and I'm now putting that on my agenda again...but which of the three projects should get the full treatment first! 🤔

[@scotty4418]

Very timely Nigel, I’ve just started to plan out a project to link my photography to my previous professional role so was very interested in your discussion today around the creation of a book.

[@Mark-qn9xl]

Great video Nigel. One of your best as its about giving to the photographic community. I am almost 70 so prints have always been a big part of photography for me. I have produced several books and I feel sequencing is the hardest part, especially if you include monochrome images as well. I am starting to include more text as I feel it adds rather than detracts from the image. I look forward to your upcoming videos as I imagine with your back, b-roll would be a very challenging aspect.

[@DaveWphoto]

Great video Nigel, I have thought about printing a book of my favorite landscape images, primarily of seascapes. You have inspired me to begin the process of concept and design.

[@AdamMatthewsPhotography]

Great video, and very excellent timing for me! I have all the of your books...and going through them made me think about my own work. A few weeks back I figured I should start making a book for myself every year, with my best images. It was in part a practical decision too, since there is only so much wall space 😆 These thoughts and tips are fantastic. I do have a longer term book project in mind, and you've given me the nudge to really make that happen, too!

[@BevSantini]

Photo Books are the best! I create them for special family vacations as well as end of the year wrap up of various shoots. Will definitely check out Saal Digital for the next one. Heading to Normandy next month. Look forward to seeing yours!

[@chriskearney4058]

Following previous YT subjects of yours on photo books and printing I’m now doing both. I purchased your book Woodlands and that got me fired up. I produced a book for my wife’s birthday, she loved it. Because I enjoy printing I also use Fotospeed easy books which are brilliant for showing prints to family.

[@simontull7511]

Very timely Nigel, thanks…..I’ve been looking for a good photobook supplier for a while. Saal look v good … I especially like that they can supply icc profiles

[@Johnnycbtx]

I have printed my own photo book and plan to print another one in time for Christmas as well as my calendar which I hate to admit I have not done for the last two years but that comes to an end this year, Another book and calendar for Christmas gifts.

[@martharetallick204]

I have used Saal Digital and recommend them. For my latest book project, I did the design from scratch. It took just under seven weeks and I used Affinity Publisher and Affinity Photo. The printer will be a local company here in Tucson, Arizona.

[@stephenrogers1480]

Hello Nigel, great video, and now you have got me thinking and feeling enthusiastic. I just need to decide on my theme, I know it will involve the coast. My weakness will be actually the layout of the book, and getting the colours right for printing. Plenty to think about!!

[@markwaddington6402]

Love the editing on the new video.

[@JVNPhoto]

Such a great video with valuable advice Nigel! Having gone through the process of self-publishing a book last year, it can definitely be a steep learning curve but the end result makes it all worth it. It's a really unique feeling being able to hold your own work in such a way.

[@NigelDanson]

And what a book!

[@brandonmjohnsonphotography]

Nigel, excellent tips. Thank you so much for making this video because I have been on the fence about doing a book. I'm in the process of moving from Smugmug to Squarespace. I really need to think about doing a book and what to write about. So glad you are doing much better from your surgery.

[@migonads]

I think I will do this today ! Thanks love the channel. Great inspiration

[@HR-wd6cw]

I think printing (and thus photobooks) are a valuable exercise for photographers. Even if we don't ever intend to sell the prints or the books, it's good to look at your photos on something other than a screen. Sometimes you'll see stuff you didn't notice on the screen (at least I have) that has made me be more aware of various aspects of photography (whether it's at the time of capture, or during the editing process). Printing at home can be expensive if you do a lot of it, but I think it's worth the value (and hassle) in the end for those who are serious about photography. Plus, printing (or creating photo books) also gives you something tangible to hold, instead of just something on your computer (a digital file; as it's not the same as holding a print or a book of work that you created).

[@sookephotographyadventures]

Oh no, it’s too late! I’ve already bought your book. I guess that means I’ll have to make my own now. It’s actually something I’ve wanted to do for some time, so this video was great and just the push I needed to move forward with that. Thanks for another fantastic video.

[@grahamegannon9708]

I have been playing with the idea of producing a book, mainly for family and friends. You have given me some good ideas and I will work on them early next year.Too busy this year as I am off to Canada at the end of the month for five weeks.

[@tonygaskins9769]

I'm about two thirds along the way of making a photobook, its nearing completion. I've also got all 3 of your books, so you can do both

[@RNMcover]

The video on « Seascapes » gave me chills. Literally. Wow.

[@NigelDanson]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@broneq_com]

Hi Nigel. I don't think I'm ready to create own book yet. However I'm working on my website at the moment and it's amazing how many more things, good or bad, I see in my photos ;) All the best and looking forward to your future videos.

[@cribbi]

Hey Nigel, great video. Thank you. I will be working on my next book. The books you get printed is what you go back to if you want to take a moment to recall memories. Yes, you can look at the photos on your hard drive but you feel the photos in your books. Could you explain your coloring and sorting system you use for preparing you book? Btw it hurts me to see all those great photos and most of them are rated 3 stars in your catalogue. 🤯