For those that might be interested, the new issue of B&W (the USA collectors magazine) is out, issue 31 June 2004. It has ads for 3, count 'em THREE new books about Ed Weston. One from last year, Dune; one from Michael and Paula, Edward Weston, Life Work and Edward Weston, A Photographer's Love of Life. Now I must admit, I admire Westons work, but why all at once he seems to be 'accepted' ?

The man's work has stood the test of time, in my opinion and he seems to be getting the recognition he should have received prior to now. Anyway, thought some might want to know about the books and as always the portfolios are very nice.

Ol' Eddie has always been my favorite. Why the subject of so many books? My guess is that his life and work is probably the most thoroughly documented and accessible of the modern photographers. Good records, documentation, well preserved negatives do help in making research on an interesting life much easier.

Are there any contemporary photographers who could/would merit three (almost) simultaneous books?

I was fortunate to view one of the new ones. the one that Paula and Michael had the LF conf. It is a beautiful book and well worth the price. If they had had one available to purchase instead of just to show at the conference, they would have been able to sell a large portion of them.

Aggie, is there a pre-order form for it? REALLY want that one.

Better hurry ;) http://www.lodimapress.com/lp/weston.asp

Michael and Paula will be in Monterey for a few more days teaching a workshop. But I would order through their website. I was really impressed with the book.

I had the good fortune to see the Edward Weston Book that Michael Smith and Paula Chamlee at Lodima Press have brought to market when they spent the night with me. This book is truly outstanding. Michael indicated that the release date was mid June. I ordered the book because Edward Weston is one of my favorite photographers and also because the quality of this book is outstanding. Michael and Paula "stood on press" to be sure that the reproductions in the book matched actual photographs. There are reproductions of both platinum and silver prints included. The text that accompanies the images is well written. Included in this book are several photographs that are not normally seen.

If you are an Edward Weston fan and you intend to buy one book in your lifetime, this is the book for you.

Donald,
Thanks for the update and review. I ordered the book, just prior to the pre-sale ended, and was hoping it would be as good as you described. It will be the first EW I have owned so you confirmed what I had hoped for.