I must admit that I found this book disappointing. Perhaps that's because I'm a trained photographer, hence the contents weren't really telling me anything I wasn't already aware of. What was I expecting or hoping for? Some magic tip, some snippet of advice to show me where I'd been going wrong. The trick I'd been missing. Unfortunately, this book doesn't have the answer, but the truth of the matter is that when photographing wild birds, that once you have the correct equipment, the other tools you require are: practise (forever), time (lots of), patience (in bucket loads), ample all-weather/camo gear, no dog walkers, and sandwiches. No, the sandwiches are not to entice the birds. They are for you. After all, you don't want to be rushing home, just as the action starts, because you're hungry.

All that being said, this IS a great book for anyone starting out in the craft. If you're new to photographing wild birds, then this is a good starter, and the tips will have value. The photographs are attractive and it will make an excellent Christmas present for the photographer in your life. ( )