I read this at a time when I had no intention of working in black and white. It is a wonderful insight into the thinking of a great photographer. John Blakemore writes very clearly and discusses deep matters with his characteristic gentle manner and light touch. A must read book.
In mid 2008 I felt ready to add black and white to my work. The book was invaluable in helping me see what this would add in expressive possibilities and how to achieve them. I was also lucky enough to attend a workshop with John Blakemore, pretty soon after that I set up my own darkroom.
I don't usually enjoy documentary photography. So often it is more about the photographer's slant and can be rather preachy. This book of photographs made in the Cayo Hueso district of Havana, Cuba is a wonderful exception. What shines through it is that John Camino-James relates to people and photographs them rather than as mere symbols of some situation. His work shows the conditions of their lives clearly but these conditions do not delimit their humanity. He has a keen eye for the telling moment as well as recording so many subtleties to be discovered and enjoyed. You will not find any of the tired cliches about Cuba in this superb book.