This comprehensive guide shows how photography became possible: from the early experiments with light, to sophisticated camera equipment and the stunning work of famous contemporary photographers.

Highly illustrated throughout in colour and black and white, the reader is taken on a fascinating photographic tour through history. Whether you are a student or dedicated enthusiast, this book will further your understanding of photography.

Written as an introductory text, the book is divided into two main halves. The first half deals with the main technical developments and describes the groundbreaking work of inventors that eventually led to the capture and permanent storage of an image. Developments in camera technologies are also described - from portable camera obscuras to modern day compacts and sophisticated electronic systems.

As the technical aspects of photography evolved, so too did its application. Photographers realised they could express a point of view, or use the medium as a language. For some this meant a romantic portrayal of a subject, whilst others documented the reality of situations, like war or poverty, or became obsessed with the visual appearance of subject shapes and forms. The second half of the book concentrates on what and why photographs were taken - showing how technique has become a means to an end, particularly in the hands of artists.

The late Michael Langford FIIP, FRPS was the former Photography Course Director at the Royal College of Art, London. He acted as external assessor for several schools of photography, was past chairman of The Society for Photographic Education, and an advisor to national examination boards for photography. He also wrote hundreds of articles for British and American magazines and was the author of three other best-selling textbooks for Focal Press: 'Basic Photography', 'Advanced Photography' and 'Starting Photography'.