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Geographical

Official magazine of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)

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This year’s best books about photography

21 December 2024
4 minutes

Dive into the best photography books of the year – from stunning microscope pictures to the beloved ‘Big 5’ animals


By Geographical Contributor

A picture paints a thousand words – and what better way to explore some of the world’s most important topics than through a photobook?

Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift for a keen photographer in your life or treating yourself, we’ve curated our top photography books here at Geographical to help you immerse yourself in new worlds with ease.

From books on the climate crisis to those showcasing the awe-inspiring creatures that roam our planet, there’s something for everyone…


1. The New Big 5: A Global Project For Endangered Wildlife: by Graeme Green

Buy here on Amazon

The ‘Big 5’ was once a gruesome goal for trophy hunters. Photographer Graeme Green reimagines this term, celebrating the world’s most beloved animals. In hopes of raising awareness for their protection, The New Big 5 includes elephants, polar bears, lions, gorillas, and tigers. This collection brings together 165 of the world’s greatest wildlife photographers and conservationists, showcasing the beauty and diversity of these magnificent creatures.

By celebrating the ‘New Big 5,’ Graeme Green inspires action to safeguard their future. Check out our Gallery from The New Big 5.


2. Food Planet Future by Robert Dash

Buy here on Amazon

Robert Dash’s Food Planet Future stands out as a captivating journey into art and environmental advocacy. Through scanning electron microscope micrographs that capture pollen, seeds and leaves and macro photographs that provide broader context, Dash crafts surreal narratives. Each artwork initiates a dialogue between familiar foods and their microscopic components, offering viewers a fresh view of the hidden intricacies of natural forms. Beyond its aesthetic allure, Dash’s work ignites conversations about the sustainability of our food systems in the face of the climate crisis. See our Gallery of Dash’s images.


 

3. Great British Elms by Mark Seddon and David Shreeve, with
photography by Sam Ford

Buy here on Amazon

Great British Elms chronicles the dramatic decline and resurgence of the iconic elm tree. This book tells the story of its devastating loss to Dutch elm disease and the inspiring efforts to bring it back through Sam Ford’s photography. Enjoy our Gallery on Great British Elms.


 

4. Made In America: The Industrial Photography of Christopher Payne by Simon Winchester and Christopher Payne

Buy here on Amazon

Made in America reveals the hidden world of American manufacturing. Photographer Christopher Payne captures the people and processes behind the products we use, from traditional crafts to cutting-edge technology. The communities, skilled labourers, and cutting-edge methods that propel American industry are revealed to us through Payne’s photographs. Payne’s images honour the resilient nature of American manufacturing and serve as a timely reminder of the value of locally-made goods and the preservation of our industrial past.


5. 100 Iconic Portraits by Réhahn

Buy here

100 Iconic Portraits is a captivating collection of photographs by Réhahn. Through his lens, we embark on a visual journey, connecting with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds. From the vibrant streets of Cuba to the sacred temples of India, Réhahn’s portraits capture the essence of the human spirit, inviting us to appreciate the beauty and diversity of our world. Check out our Gallery of Réhahn’s work.


7. Hope by Christina Mittermeier

Pre-order here on Amazon

Photographer and marine biologist Christina Mittermeier has dedicated her life to capturing the raw beauty and fragile balance of our planet’s ecosystems. Mittermeier’s photographs are more than just stunning images; they are powerful tools for conservation. By showcasing the intricate beauty of our natural world, she inspires awe, urging us to protect these precious ecosystems for future generations. Her work serves as a reminder of our close connection to nature and the pressing need to protect it for future generations.


Now you’ve explored our top photography books, why not check out our other recommended books?

  • The best travel books of 2024
  • This year’s best geography books on the modern world
  • This year’s best nature books

Filed Under: Culture Tagged With: Books

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Published in the UK since 1935, Geographical is the official magazine of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG).

Informative, authoritative and educational, this site’s content covers a wide range of subject areas, including geography, culture, wildlife and exploration, illustrated with superb photography.

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