First off, many, many thanks to all the folks who have written to me about The Hot Shoe Diaries, and encouraged me along the way through the blog or email to finish it. I’m very grateful. As I mentioned a little bit, it was a bear to write. Talking about small flash means talking about light, which means talking about the whole shebang. The whole shebang requires a bit of thinking, a process I’m profoundly uncomfortable with. But it is out in the stores now, and I simply wanted to say all best to everyone. The book has prompted some queries, so thought I’d do a bit of a Q&A on the bloggarini.
Q: The “Hot Shoe Diaries” is a bit of a strange name for a photo book. Wazzup with that?
A: Yeah, you’re right. Hot Shoe obviously references the flashes, and it is in fact, a bit of a diary, or written a bit like one. It is an ongoing, mildly rambling account of flubs, miscues, gaffes, successes, failures, dropped flashes, blown exposures, rants, raves, and the (until now) interior ruminations of a 30 year photog. I’ve made lots more bad pictures than I’ve made good ones (every shooter has) and there has to be some value there in the scar tissue of a photographic career. So I kinda wrote like I shoot it–all over the place.
Q: Given the title, have there been any problems with folks confusing this particular photo book with books about something else? Do the bookstores put it in the wrong section ever?
A: Yeah, I guess a little bit. Couple folks found it in the adult book section, and one saw it up there with the bodice rippers. Some of the things that link to it on Amazon are pretty great, though, like there’s a link of the book to these…..
And these…..
I tried buying ‘em for Annie, but I got the eyebrow, ya know? She was like, “I’m not wearing those. I can’t walk in those.” My response? “That’s okay!”
A few people might think it’s a bit of a crime novel, with the K-Man in there a couple of times. I thought about writing it a bit like a noir novel…..
Q: Speaking of the K-Man, who is he?
Mark and I go back a ways. We worked together on a couple of annual reports. He was the client, I was the shooter. He has always been interested in photography, even back when I used to give him grief about the disposable cameras he was shooting. He got me back though and recently blogged a pic he made of me, which shoulda been disposed with the camera that made it. Over numerous Jamesons and a few Johnny Walker Blues, we realized we both were fans of noir movies and crime novels and such. His blog and his photography often go in the direction of mystery, mood and selective light. It’s a fun blog, and there are more adventures awaiting the K-Man on the streets of Gotham, to be sure. Below is Mark’s, uh, disposable effort….
Sheesh…look at that, and the question that springs to mind is, of course, who’s the ass?
Q; The book has done pretty well so far, but let’s face it, Scott Kelby is still the man, is he not?
A: No question. Scott is, like, the number one selling author of our time or any time, and the reason for that is, he’s a damn good writer and a teacher whose humanity and humor shine through even when he’s talking about the frikkin’ liquify tool, ya know? But, one of the reasons Hot Shoes is doing well is because of my own little guerrilla marketing campaign. I target Scott’s books, ya see, cause I know people are gonna go right there to those shelves to buy ‘em. And then, I look around, and well….see for yourself……
Q: What’s with small flash? Why is it a topic of interest?
A: David Hobby.
Q: Now hold on, here. You mean to say one guy started this whole thing? This planet wide fervor over all things strobist?
A: Yep. David, from what I know, started teaching flash informally a few years back to get some friends and fellow shooters on track with it. He began blogging, called it Strobist, and the rest is history. He has built a worldwide community of learning, sharing and participation around the phenomenon of small, portable flashes. Pretty incredible.
Q: Why did you stick a flash in the chicken?
A: Didn’t have floor stand for it, and I found a dead chicken worked pretty well. Hmmm…..does that qualify as a field tip?
Q: Who’s in the gorilla suit?
A: It’s really a gorilla. The Nikon Creative Lighting System is so simple, even a monkey can do it! (Geez, I’m goin’ straight to hell for that one.) No, it’s just me. After years of chimping, well, that’s what happens. More tk…
Tom (fotofolio) says:
on March 30, 2009 at 5:11 pm
I threw my Holy Bible out the window to replace it with “Hot Shoe Diaries” …
I dig the book, the style, the stories, the everything …
Another thing, Joe … please visit Belgium - “Hot Chocolates” are waiting for you over here! And some good beer also
Tom
Michael Dunmire says:
on March 30, 2009 at 5:15 pm
I’m voting “The Swap” for an Oscar this year. Great stuff.
Mo says:
on March 30, 2009 at 5:25 pm
LOL.. very nice and funny post Joe.. I was trying to do you a favour by performing the same stunt at my local borders but I guess your book was soldout anyway. But I managed to put some of Scotts books in the adult mags section
I guess down and dirty tricks was a good candidate
-Mo
Jason Pitcher says:
on March 30, 2009 at 5:38 pm
Joe……I have to know….how did you trigger the “chicken light”? It couldn’t have been with CLS as the sensor is covered….so how did you do it? An SC-17 ain’t long enough……PW?
C’mon Joe, spill……
Matt Hunt says:
on March 30, 2009 at 5:42 pm
I think we should say ‘thanks for writing it’ a few times more. It amazes me how generous the photographic community generally is, especially at a time when it it is under such pressure.
And thanks for the chicken picture. Just I thought my brain was going to start creaking, I turned over the page and Ta da! Instant relief and humour.
And then I thought: Now how was that lit?
John Leonard says:
on March 30, 2009 at 5:48 pm
When I die I hope my VAL doesn’t get revenge by sticking a strobe……..ah never mind.
Ranger 9 says:
on March 30, 2009 at 6:09 pm
“Q: What’s with small flash? Why is it a topic of interest?
A: David Hobby.
Q: Now hold on, here. You mean to say one guy started this whole thing?”
Uh, how about giving some credit to Minolta, for inventing wireless TTL flash, and for Olympus, for introducing it commercially? Before that happened, using multiple small flashes was a huge flaming pain in the butt (which didn’t stop some of us from having to do it, but certainly stopped it from being popular!) Crediting a blogger for the whole schmeer is like saluting the waiter who delivered your meal, while ignoring the chef who cooked it…
Matt says:
on March 30, 2009 at 6:10 pm
I can’t wait to get the book! I’ve been saving my pennies since I bought The Moment it Clicks.
Nice video btw. Very sneaky.
Kyle Batson says:
on March 30, 2009 at 6:10 pm
Thanks a lot for the book, Joe. I enjoyed it quite thoroughly. Now, of course, you’ve convinced me to go with TTL for my external flashes, if only they weren’t so expensive!
Ben says:
on March 30, 2009 at 6:19 pm
Just got my copy of the Hot Shoe Diaries today, and am enjoying it immensely. In fact, everyone who’s passing by my little office is picking it up and quickly finding an image to fall in love with within a handful of pages.
Thanks for sharing, Joe, as always.
Andrew Trembley says:
on March 30, 2009 at 7:02 pm
What? Not copping to the Red Shoe Diaries reference?
Love the book anyway.
Arnold Klein says:
on March 30, 2009 at 11:34 pm
Between the book and the Kelbytraining.com videos I have been educated, entertained, informed and inspired. Thanks so much for all your work and making it accessible.
Carlos Bruno says:
on March 30, 2009 at 11:41 pm
Hahahaha … SO the same monkey on the book is that one at the end of Trading Places movie (Dan Acroid and Eddie Murphy) that had the beautiful honey moon to Africa?
Chef McNally … the book is fantastic … like the first one.
When we can expect the third????
Paul says:
on March 30, 2009 at 11:44 pm
Ok, now you and Hobby have made us all small-flash experts so what’s in store for the next book? I’m thinking something with no technical info whatsoever - just “war stories” from the road. I’d buy it, that’s for sure.
Ron Uriel says:
on March 30, 2009 at 11:46 pm
Good luck !
The K Man says:
on March 31, 2009 at 12:49 am
Ok, ok…so it took me awhile to come over to this whole photography thing. Traveling with you odd shooters for so long, something was bound to break. I’d hate it or love it…turns out…I love it.
Yes, I traded in the disposable camera (um, not sure I traded that it. I just dropped it off at CVS and never saw it again), turned to film, then digital, and now just trying to learn and shoot and learn and shoot and shoot and learn. I’m slow, but I get there.
Always fun working with you, either behind or in front of your camera. We’ve had some adventures….thanks for the JW Blue. Loving the book - thanks for letting be part of it with you. The magic of photography….
Tatiana Boyle says:
on March 31, 2009 at 1:07 am
Joe, thank you for sharing your insights about your fellow photographers, multiple families, and sharing the Light and the diaries. I just bought the book this a.m. at the local Barnes&Noble and re-named it into “McNallypedia of Light II”. Very inspirational, moving, fun, and thought-provoking. Big thanks!
Ernie Rice says:
on March 31, 2009 at 1:11 am
I just wanted to say… I love the new book. I stopped using what I called my bag lights (Viv 285’s and SB-24’s) several years ago for larger flashes. You and David Hobby have got me using hot shoe flashes creatively again. Thanks.
Leif Eliasson says:
on March 31, 2009 at 1:15 am
Hi Joe - I´v got it and I’m reading at full speed. My wife complains about reduced attention. I told her I be back soon.
A real good book. Can see you have a picture from our course in Venice, it was a good one.
Regards - Leif
Glyn Dewis says:
on March 31, 2009 at 2:59 am
Hi Joe,
Just wanted to pass on my thanks for writing what is nothing short of an incredible book. Believe me, the time and effort that you have clearly put into this has made it a ‘must have’ book for any photographer of any level out there. Your “tell it as it is” style and by, revealing every little thought and process has made this a Photography Bible.
A truly incredible read, thankyou.
All the best to you and yours,
Glyn
Simon Auchterlonie says:
on March 31, 2009 at 3:39 am
Joe, you are warm, kind hearted and very funny man! It is a pleasure to come to your blog every day to see what you’ve been upto, you never fail to put a smile on my face!
And now I can read all about hot shoe flashes every day, much to my better halfs dismay, in your wonderful new book. You are simply a star and I hope one day to meet you and shake your hand!
Laurent says:
on March 31, 2009 at 4:45 am
A great book ! I just received mine and dive into it. As usal, joe made a great balance between humor and how-to, tips, advices - you name it ;).
I must say that Strobist + Joe’ books + Joe’s courses on KelbyTraining changed the way i’m seeing small flashes and their use.
Please, keep not being serious to teach us serious things. (The video above is typical).
Regards
Laurent.
Juha Ylitalo says:
on March 31, 2009 at 5:03 am
One more question from audience…
On page 81 you have lovely photograph under ‘Making sunrise’. You had camera on one hand, flash on another, which raises the question who was holding the reflector?
Subject, tripod or was it leaning against fence, foot or something else.
It is not a big issue, but I’ve just been wondering what kind of reflector would be best for myself and you are one of the few sources that I’ve heard, read, etc. that are using these trigrips instead os 5-in-1 or something similar.
Behind the photo says:
on March 31, 2009 at 5:27 am
Buhehe, guerrilla campaign is priceless, as well as the chimping reference
Thank you for the additional info on the book, I already have it on my wishlist for a while, and will buy it soon.
Theis says:
on March 31, 2009 at 6:26 am
Hey,
Looking forward to getting the new book home but there is a little delivery time to Denmark
Nice humor Q/A, the video just hits the spot. This kind of thing is what make your blog just a bit above everyone els
Come back to Denmark soon and this time try not to blow everything up
http://www.theis.dk/blog/wp-content/uploads/img_0093.jpg
Alan MacRae says:
on March 31, 2009 at 7:37 am
Another hit, Joe. I’ve been waiting for my copies since I ordered them, pre-publication and got them a couple of weeks ago. Thanks for your many contributions to photography.
Roger Botting says:
on March 31, 2009 at 8:42 am
Don’t worry about Joe, he is even more insane in person.
His books and videos are a great way to learn photography of people.
Wayne says:
on March 31, 2009 at 9:10 am
I bought mine from Amazon. Now I’m getting emails from them about buying high-heel shoes!
I’m not kidding.
Great book, by the way. The only problem is, now I need to go out and buy a few more SB-900’s, an SU-800, tri grips, soft boxes, ….
Lewis W says:
on March 31, 2009 at 9:26 am
Joe dedicates his book to “Annie, the only light I need.” Then, the next page he shows all his lighting gear. Now I am really confused.
All seriousness aside, congratulations on the adulations. A thirty year “overnight” sensation.
Chris says:
on March 31, 2009 at 9:56 am
hey Joe, that pic of you on pg. 223 flexing is really you isn’t it? It’s not a photoshop job is it?
Gary Chisolm says:
on March 31, 2009 at 10:47 am
Ironic that David Hobby today on his blog talks not about speedlights, but White Lightning monobloc studio lights.
Steve says:
on March 31, 2009 at 12:23 pm
“Hot Shoe Diaries” is great and David Hobby is great however, your buddy Bob Krist deserves props for educating people on small off camera flashes. “Secrets of Lighting on Location” goes way back to a time of chorded TTL, radio remotes, optical slaves, and a spare camera with a polaroid back. It has been on my bookshelf since before there was Amazon.com. I’ve gifted it too other photographer friends; as I’ve been doing with your books. Keep up the great work Joe.
JayB says:
on March 31, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Joe - Awesome book. You could have named in The Flasher and put in adult section as well. Or use it for your next title. Thanks for all your generous sharing.
Matt says:
on March 31, 2009 at 12:39 pm
Pre-ordered the book, got it, love it. The delivery package caught the attention of my “financial advisor”, but it was an easy sell once I showed her the great photos inside. Despite your humility, you have a great finesse with the written word as well!
Bob DeChiara says:
on March 31, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Half way thru the Hot Shoe Diaries. Truly a great read. Thanks for signing my copy.
Don’t sell yourself short on the writing thing Joe. You are one of the best. Ask anyone who reads this blog. Love the video.
-Bob
(Boston)
Norm Cooper says:
on March 31, 2009 at 1:44 pm
My favorite quote comes from page 80:
“How many times have we gotten up for a bad sunrise?
“And, because we love shooting pictures so much, how many more bad sunrises will we continue to get up for?
“Shivering in the dark, wondering if we got all the gear, climbing up some hillside or big-footing our way through a forest or field we don’t have a permit for, or climbing over a fence and wondering if the folks who own the property also perhaps own a large dog [or gun]. We are out there making a bet on light and clouds and camera position, a bet so flimsy that it makes taking a flyer on the high-roller slot machines in Vegas look like sensible financial planning.
“And then, of course, nothing happens but clouds…”
AMEN, Bro, AMEN!
Looking forward to the week in Paso Robles!!
Lindsey says:
on March 31, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Thanks a lot, Joe… I just spit my morning coffee all over my computer screen while watching the Swap! Awesome entry, as per usual!
Chris Biele says:
on March 31, 2009 at 2:16 pm
Hey Joe! I’ve finally gotten around to reading Moment. I’m running through it with my 3 month old and she loves it! She already said she wants to be a photog just like her dear ol dad wants to be one… HA.
Anyway, my copy of Hot Shoe Diaries arrived from Amazon UK (I’m in Marbella, Spain) and I’m totally stoked. I’ll be reading Moment at night with the little one and leave the racier book at my work to read during my two hour lunch break.
I love the cover btw, on both books. You’re a damn inspiration.
Nick says:
on March 31, 2009 at 2:28 pm
I’m blown away from the amount of information in this book. Not sure how I’m going to be able to digest it all without a stomachache :-)). Thanks for sharing all you’ve learned with us. Love your quirky writing style, makes for an interesting and entertaining read!
Sharpy says:
on March 31, 2009 at 2:33 pm
Got the book last friday, read it one sitting, inspirational stuff… Just need the new Pocketwizards to arrive from B and H and TTL here I come…
Bill says:
on March 31, 2009 at 2:35 pm
Can’t thank you enough for popping out another book in so short a time. I just ordered “Hot Shoe Diaries” from Amazon, so it should be arriving Not Soon Enough.
Catalin Onel says:
on March 31, 2009 at 2:45 pm
Had it pre-ordered last December on amazon. Months of waiting, days and nights of checking on order status, delayed delivery estimates and now…at last my eyes have seen the light, or should I say the speedlight. Moment it clicks was an excellent appetizer, but this is the main course served a la carte .I’m simply blown away of how well written and also funny this book is. I truly must say that you Mr. McNally along with David Hobby and also Zack Arias are the three people that have really changed my thinking. Your two books along with the Kelby training videos, the Hands-on guide to creative lighting, and strobist have really made history on this newfoundland of off-camera flash. I wish to thank you, and who knows, maybe one day you’ll teach a workshop in Romania too. PS : Looking forward to your new video on Kelby , any updates on that one ?
Sam says:
on March 31, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Hey, Joe.
I can’t hardly wait for the PBS’s TV-series “Joe Can Cook”, especially if you can nuke a chicken with 100+ SB900 units
Thanks for a laugh with the M.I. “The swap”. Perhaps, you didn’t know that Scott came right behind you with the “Double Swap” movie on his own…HAH!HAH!HA!!!!
Quoc Huy says:
on March 31, 2009 at 8:56 pm
Just received my copy yesterday. What a pleasure to read it!
I love your writing style and of course your photo style too.
Loved the Moment it Clicks, love this even more.
Craig Ferguson says:
on March 31, 2009 at 11:23 pm
I’m still waiting for my copy to arrive. Although I do think “The Swap” video would have been better if you were wearing the high heels shown above.
Taylor says:
on April 1, 2009 at 1:06 am
Joe,
I’m a Canon shooter but learned so much from RSD– as well as from Moment, your blog, and your excellent KelbyTraining.com videos. Thanks for the ongoing education– you are a wealth of knowledge with great delivery– accessible, generous, and funny.
Kok says:
on April 1, 2009 at 8:19 am
Finally, I got your book from amazon today (wait for 10 day to arrive to Thailand).
This is my new bible.
Troy says:
on April 1, 2009 at 10:12 am
Quote of the week from David Hobby regarding using more than just small flashes…
“If I think an ignited fart will improve a photo, then please pass the beans and matches.” 4/1/09
Dirk says:
on April 1, 2009 at 10:55 am
Hey Joe, went to Barnes and Noble yesterday after I saw your post (Ive been waiting for that book to come out).
Its nothing short of fantastic. I love the way you write, and for us photographers with hyperactivity and need the information to be flowing its fantastic.
I will definately be going back too buy that book and read it many times over.
Great job Joe,
Dirk
Rod says:
on April 1, 2009 at 11:58 am
Joe -
The book is just what I needed. Excellent. I shook your hand at a Kelby workshop in Hawaii a few years back, and asked your advice in shooting my kids with flashes or strobes. Your answer was “there’s a lot of things you can do with those little flashes” and here we are today. I love those little flashes.
I thank you for giving me laughter and the enjoyment of photography. There’s no doubt that you have the experience and skill in photography, but the one major thing you are too humble and really is the key to your photos, is your artistry. Pure talent and creativity.