Lichfield on Travel Photography: Making the Most of a World of Pictures

Claims British photographer Lichfield, ""Everyone packs a camera to take on holiday . . . but many people never realise the full potential of even the most simple camera.'' He advises travelers to utilize ``waiting time'' at airports and hotels taking pictures and suggests that local postcards provide an instructive perspective. Some of these pointers are so obvious that they easily are overlooked, making Lichfield's hints all the more valuable. Taking advantage of a mirrored ceiling and using a self-timer, he catches a bird's-eye view of diners in a restaurant. He has been commissioned to photograph other people's vacations, so there's a shot of a frolicking Prince Charles in addition to ones of Lichfield's family. His observations reveal a topical depth of field, covering safaris and underwater photography as well as filters, lighting and special-purpose film. Although particulars on British travel insurance and the like won't be useful to an American audience, Lichfield's friendly tone and professional, handsome images make a pleasing book. Photography Book Club selection. (May 15)