For all the readers, and visual thinkers out there. These are a few of the best nude photography books produced by some of the most renowned photographers in the genre. All of these books are not text-heavy and contain a lot of imagery/visualizations to make the content digestible for everyone.
Let’s take a look at the best nude photography books to help you upgrade yourself in nude photography. Books are available for photographers of all skill levels.
Let’s dive deep to see what each book contains.
Table of contents
- 1. Nudes In Nature eBook
- 2. Exquisite Curves: Composition and Posing for Photographing the Female Nude
- 3. Three eBooks Bundle on Nude Art Poses by Dan Hecho
- 4. The Naked & the Lens, Second Edition: A Guide for Nude Photography
- 5. Lighting the Nude: Top Photography Professionals Share Their Secrets
- 6. The Opéra Volume I to X: Classic & Contemporary Nude Photography
- 7. Anthology Of Nude Photography
- 8. Nude Photography: The Art And The Craft
- 9. Fantasy Nude Photography
- 10. Photograph The Nude
- 11. Nudism In A Cold Climate
- 12. A Photographic History Of Nudism
- 13. Stainless Ladies
- 14. Fine Art Nudes: Lighting and Posing for Black & White Photography
- 15. The Nude in Photography
- 16. Visual Nude Pose Book By Masami Ichikawa
- 17. The Book of Nude Photography
- 18. John Hedgecoe’s Nude Photography
- 19. An Insider Guide To Low Key Bodyscape Photography
- 20. The Complete Book of Nude & Glamour Photography
- 21. The Fine Art of Erections
- Conclusion – Nude Photography Books
1. Nudes In Nature eBook
Rating: ★★★★★
Author: Cam Attree
Best For: All Photographers
Content: Each of the 290 pages spread across 24 chapters in the ebook contains great value that can put your career on a great pedestal when it comes to outdoor nude photography. From finding location, choosing a model, lighting on location to workflow of post processing, this eBook covers all aspects of shooting nudes in nature.
USP:
- A complete outdoor nude photography guide by an expert photographer and instructor
- A lot of reference images for easy understanding
Format: eBook
Page Count: 290 Pages
Price: $29
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2. Exquisite Curves: Composition and Posing for Photographing the Female Nude
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: A K Nicholas
Best For: Beginner & Intermediate Level Photographers
Content: The lines of the female form are a masterpiece of nature, as the title of this book implies. But, there are infinite ways to represent this beauty. Your job, as a photographer, is to create work that is appealing, fitting, and meaningful. This book takes a two-pronged approach: first by teaching the academic and second by encouraging hands-on creativity.
USP:
- The book begins with a discussion of visual literacy and its importance.
- The shooting assignments are real-world exercises that provide an opportunity to put what you have learned into practice.
Format: Hardcover Book
Page Count: 124 Pages
Price: $49.99
3. Three eBooks Bundle on Nude Art Poses by Dan Hecho
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Dan Hecho
Best For: Beginner Level Photographers & Models
Content: A bundle of 3 nude photography eBooks to expand your nude photography posing ideas as a photographer or a model.
– 101 Art Nude by Dan Hecho – An anthology of Dan Hecho’s work from 2011 to 2020
– Ballet as Art – 130 pictures of amazing ballet dancers captured in the years 2018-2019
– Natalie – 64 photos taken from 2016 to 2018, with 50+ exclusive, unpublished works
USP:
- Filled with multiple photography shoots and images
- Photos to provide you with unlimited photoshoot ideas
Format: eBook
Page Count: N/A
Price: Originally $59.99, Get it for $15.99
4. The Naked & the Lens, Second Edition: A Guide for Nude Photography
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Louis Benjamin
Best For: Beginner & Intermediate Level Photographers
Content: This is the second edition of the best-selling eBook The Naked and The Lens, it covers the key concepts presented in the first edition that guide photographers from finding models and planning a shoot, all the way through to post-production. New material includes discussions of the latest equipment, software, and web publishing options, as well as fresh and more diverse photographs, and interviews as well.
USP:
- Includes interviews with photographers
- Includes images, equipment, mentions light, framing, location, acquiring models and treatment thereof, laws about photo content, and prices.
Format: eBook
Page Count: 253 Pages
Price: $36.58
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5. Lighting the Nude: Top Photography Professionals Share Their Secrets
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Roger Hicks, Frances Schultz, and Steve Luck
Best For: Intermediate & Advanced Level Photographers
Content: Lighting the Nude, Revised Edition offers a behind-the-scenes look at modern lighting setups, and lighting diagrams. It offers lighting and posing setups for more than 140 nudes of various styles, from classical to fantasy, romantic to erotic; camera settings, tips, and techniques from the photographers, and a complete introduction to gear, along with tips for working with models.
USP:
- Well-written and illustrated
- Details on the lighting of nude subjects with plan view and 3D view sketches
- Talks about analog film photography
Format: eBook
Page Count: 384 Pages
Price: $18.82
6. The Opéra Volume I to X: Classic & Contemporary Nude Photography
Rating: ★★★★✩
Editor: Matthias Straub
Best For: All Photographers
Content: The Opéra Magazine is an annual publication that surveys contemporary nude photography from around the world by multiple popular and emerging photographers. This magazine is ideal for photographers of all levels for inspiration and self-learning.
USP:
- Covers all the modern trends, awards, and current events in this genre of photography.
Format: eBook
Page Count: 200 Pages
Review: N/A
Price: $54.56
7. Anthology Of Nude Photography
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Dani Olivier
Best For: Beginner & Intermediate Level Photographers
Content: The book features genuine photographs that have not been doctored or altered in any way. Photographer Dani Olivier creates unique effects during his shoots by projecting intricate light patterns onto nude models without enhancing accessories or excessive makeup. The images are captured on a black background with no artifacts, resulting in surreal compositions that are either abstract or figurative. This book introduces Mr. Olivier’s unique style of abstract and psychedelic nudes, which are his exclusive creations.
USP:
- The pictures are taken with a black background
- There are no artifacts : Just the models and the light projections
Format: eBook
Page Count: 200 Pages
Price: $1.99
8. Nude Photography: The Art And The Craft
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Pascal Baetens
Best For: Beginner & Intermediate Level Photographers
Content: This eBook covers tips on working with amateur and professional models to get great results, be it indoors or outdoors. It also gives tips on setting up a shoot, lighting effects, and post-production techniques to turn a good picture into a great one. Plus, it showcases the work of an international panel of photographers like Andreas Bitesnich, Sylvie Blum, Allan Jenkins, Almond Chu, and more to inspire your creativity.
USP:
- Thorough explanations
- Includes other photographers’ case studies
- Introductory chapters for beginners
Format: eBook
Page Count: 256 Pages
Price: $18.25
9. Fantasy Nude Photography
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Rayment Kirby
Best For: All Photographers
Content: This Rayment Kirby’s book is all about executing complex image concepts using simple tools in a small studio with digital technology. Kirby transforms images of models, props, and small-scale sets into dramatic composites and also shows how to infuse everyday locations with a fantasy element for more evocative results. The book includes lighting diagrams, procedural images, and easy-to-follow text detailing the process used to adapt Kirby’s inventive approaches for more exciting and compelling nude images. The book is full of DIY solutions for big looks and is sure to inspire creativity.
USP:
- Packed with DIY solutions for big looks
- Easy-to-follow text
- For each final image, the author presents a lighting diagram
Format: eBook
Page Count: 128 Pages
Price: $66.88
10. Photograph The Nude
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Peter Bilous
Best For: All Photographers
Content: The book discusses the subgenre of nude photography called “artistic nude,” in which the human body is the subject of the art. The images typically do not show emotion in the subject’s face or through their pose, and eye contact with the viewer is not made. Nude photography books introduce Peter Bilous as a teacher who can guide one on how to choose the right equipment, select suitable models with different body types, and use lighting, posing, and composition techniques to create impactful images. Furthermore, it suggests that by studying the work of pioneers and contemporary masters in this subgenre, one can find inspiration for refining their style or exploring new realms of expression. Finally, special approaches such as long exposures, silhouettes, and creative lighting can be used to create standout work that satisfies the artist’s creative vision.
USP:
- Learn about artistic nudes
- Peter Bilous teaches you how to choose the right equipment
Format: eBook
Page Count: 128 Pages
Price: $51.45
11. Nudism In A Cold Climate
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Annebella Pollen
Best For: All Photographers
Content: This book is about a unique nudist culture in mid-20th-century Britain that challenged traditional ideas about our bodies. It’s a fascinating look at a group of people who believed in social nudism, even though Britain is known for being chilly and reserved. The book has lots of pictures to help you understand this unusual cultural phenomenon.
USP:
- The book explores the intriguing world of social nudism in Britain during the mid-20th century.
- The book has lots of pictures for inspiration.
Format: Hardcover Book
Page Count: 224 Pages
Price: $28.67
12. A Photographic History Of Nudism
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Richard Battenberg
Best For: All Photographers
Content: A revealing peek at those who like to get naked — from the early utopian dreamers of the 1920s to the liberated pleasure-seekers of today. Two hundred forty fact-filled pages about the clothes free lifestyle with a unique and rare collection of photographs.
USP:
- Stunning images of fine art nudes from the 1920s.
Format: Hardcover Book
Page Count: 240 Pages
Price: $32.82
13. Stainless Ladies
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Didier Carré
Best For: Beginners & Intermediate Photographers
Content: This nude photography books is a collection of beautiful nude photos taken by a French photographer named Didier Carré. The book is filled with stunning and explicit pictures that show the true beauty of the human body. The models are still and have been carefully chosen for these striking images. The photos are in black and white, which makes the shapes and muscles of the body stand out.
USP:
- In some of the pictures, the models are holding one or two shiny objects that draw your attention to the center of the picture.
- This book is full of breathtaking images and is worth exploring in your own time.
Format: Hardcover Book
Page Count: 160 Pages
Price: $23.90
14. Fine Art Nudes: Lighting and Posing for Black & White Photography
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Stan Trampe
Best For: Beginners & Intermediate Photographers
Content: In these nude photography books, veteran photographer Stan Trampe shows you how to produce outstanding black & white nude portraits using basic equipment and a simple lighting approach—both in the studio and on location. You’ll get great insight into what it takes to develop a trusting relationship with models that will facilitate an eagerness for them to embrace—and even improve upon—your creative concepts.
USP:
- Learn how to create or find great natural light that shows texture and contours the model’s body for added appeal.
- Whether you are new to photographing artful nudes or simply want to learn some new ideas to work into your repertoire, this book will enhance every aspect of your photography.
Format: Hardcover Book
Page Count: 128 Pages
Price: $6.52
15. The Nude in Photography
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Arthur Goldsmith
Best For: All Photographers
Content: Since the 1850s, the depiction of nudes in photography has encompassed various attitudes and settings, showcasing their evolution over time. One of the earliest instances of nude photography can be traced back to the collaboration between the photographer Durieu and the artist Delacroix in Paris. This comprehensive collection features the works of over 70 renowned photographers, both in color and black and white, including Peter Basch, Bill Brandt, Elliott Erwitt, Milton H. Greene, Philippe Halsman, Les Krims, Man Ray, Duane Michals, Eadweard Muybridge, Don Ornitz, John Rawlings, J. Frederick Smith, and Edward Weston.
USP:
- An overview of the history and evolution of nude photography.
- Get inspiration from pioneers in this genre over the years.
Format: Hardcover Book
Page Count: 256 Pages
Price: $44.05
16. Visual Nude Pose Book By Masami Ichikawa
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Masami Ichikawa
Best For: All Photographers
Content: This collection showcases a series of captivating poses that capture the essence and allure of nudity. The beauty of a woman’s body is explored in four distinct chapters: “loveliness,” “beauty,” “coolness,” and “bewitching.”
USP:
- Nude posing guide with fresh ideas
- Visual illustration of poses that you can try easily
Format: Hardcover Book
Price: $26.91
17. The Book of Nude Photography
Rating: ★★★✩✩
Author: Michael Boys
Best For: All Photographers
Content: This book discusses photographic equipment, special effects, posing, props, style, composition, and other aspects of photographing nudes in detail.
USP:
- Covers all aspects
Format: Hardcover/Paperback
Price: $36.40
18. John Hedgecoe’s Nude Photography
Rating: ★★★✩✩
Author: John Hedgecoe
Best For: All Photographers
Content: This is one of the nude photography books that gives detailed instructions for each and every shot and can be a great guide for beginners or even experts who want to get their hands on a different perspective in nude photography.
USP:
- Has setup diagrams and detailed information on how every shot in the book was made.
- Greate for lighting tips
Format: Hardcover
Price: $12.35
19. An Insider Guide To Low Key Bodyscape Photography
Rating: ★★★✩✩
Author: Michael Zelbel
Best For: All Photographers
Content: This is a comprehensive guide to resources you may need to create beautiful low key nude bodyscapes. This nude photography guide will help you add that special extra “something” that sets you apart from the competition.
USP:
- Has setup diagrams and detailed information on how every shot in the book was made.
- Versatile low-key lighting setups
- Reliable camera settings
- Effective postproduction for low-key
- Creative color gels that look perfect on skin
Format: eBook
Price: $19
20. The Complete Book of Nude & Glamour Photography
Rating: ★★★✩✩
Author: Michael Busselle
Best For: All Photographers
Content: This nude photography book offers advice on photographic equipment, lighting, composition, and special darkroom techniques, and looks at the distinctive work of top artists
USP:
- Classy poses that are timeless
- Great tips that will help beginners tremendously
Format: Hardcover
Price: $35
21. The Fine Art of Erections
Rating: ★★★★✩
Author: Gruenholtz
Best For: All Photographers
Content: This is a male nude photography photobook which will serve as an amazing inspiration for male nude poses. Although there is a saturation female nude posing guides, this photobook can serve the freshness the nude genre needs.
USP:
- Fresh male nude poses
Format: Hardcover
Price: $62.99
Conclusion – Nude Photography Books
All the books mentioned above are meant to guide or inspire photographers at every skill level. It provides in-depth knowledge about the genre and covers practical content. If you find these nude photography books helpful, please leave a comment and let us know if we missed any of your favorite books.
