Dynamic Light and Shade

One would expect a book explaining the principle of HOW to position the light and shadows, and instead finds a commentary on the types of light and a written description of some drawings. I couldn't care less of a written description of where you put your shadows, i need you to tell me what is the criteria, if there's one, to put shadows in a place rather than in another one, how to use light to create drama, where is more effective to put light in a face (which he does, partially). As many art manuals it misses the point of explaining rules and tips, and just put sketches with no real useful techings or comment. The only 3 useful pages are almost at the end where he explains how to convey depth. Not a useful manual to learn how shadows works, but may be useful for reference, specially in the face part.Not suggested, unless you're a big fan of Hogarth.

I have tried a number of respectable publications by renowned artists, and have never found any to be as interesting as Hogarth. His writing and art are clear and appealing. In this book he covers some very difficult topics about lighting and shading a figure, going from obvious single-light, high contrast sources to expressive abstraction of light sources.I would not recommend this for the absolute beginner, as they often get too hung up on cool shading rather than learning anatomy and perspective, which are the cornerstones of drawing. I have made that mistake myself. For the more advanced learner, this book is priceless. Also it's a joy to behold. Almost every single page displays a very nice drawing by Mr. Hogarth.

The intent is there but the book doesn't deliver.Instruction on light and shade is essential to artists and yet this book seems to be more of a showcase for the authors work.Hogarth does explain and discuss light and shade but doesn't provide any how to's or step by steps. The text is simply accompanied by examples of his work - much of which although very good, now looks very dated.

This is the best book on inking etc. I've read and I feel like I read 'em all. I realised all the inking books I read are based on this one. Must read for those wishing to render artworks in ink but I think it would benefit all artists to read - series ones that is.

Not really a how to book, more like a showcase of author's work.

This book is full of dark very dramatic images, would be good for graphics and fantasy artists I would have preferred a more studio style book subtle light and shading.

This book does what it says on the cover, with a lot (I mean a lot!) of very clear examples. It is not so much a How-to book, but as an example illustration tool it is very good.

i am about to embark on some new projects and this book was awesome, its really helped me understand what i was doing in the dark.