In addition to being one of the greatest documentary and portrait photographers, Mary Ellen Mark was also an acclaimed educator. If you never had a chance to attend one of her photography workshops, here’s the next best thing. At the time of her death, Mary Ellen was working with Aperture on this photography workshop in a book.

Mary Ellen Mark on the Portrait and the Moment: The Photography Workshop Series ($22 at Amazon) In this book, Mary Ellen Mark-well known for the emotional power of her pictures, be they of people or animals-offers her insight on observing the world and capturing dramatic moments that reveal more than the reality at hand. Through words and pictures, she shares her own creative process and discusses a wide range of issues, from gaining the trust of the subject and taking pictures that are controlled but unforced, to organizing the frame so that every part contributes toward telling the story.

In The Photography Workshop Series, Aperture Foundation works with the world’s top photographers to distill their creative approaches, teachings and insights on photography-offering the workshop experience in a book. The goal is to inspire photographers of all levels who wish to improve their work, as well as readers interested in deepening their understanding of the art of photography. Each volume is introduced by a student of the featured photographer.

The Photography Workshop Series

Order Mary Ellen Mark on the Portrait and the Moment: The Photography Workshop Series ($22 at Amazon)
Order Larry Fink on Composition and Improvisation: The Photography Workshop Series ($20 at Amazon)
Order Alex Webb and Rebecca Norris Webb on Street Photography and the Poetic Image ($20 at Amazon)
Order Todd Hido on Landscapes, Interiors, and The Nude: The Photography Workshop Series ($22 at Amazon)

More Books by Mary Ellen Mark

Click here for a full list of Mary Ellen Mark book at Amazon