Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I don't normally write reviews, but I am so insulted by this book (and I've never been insulted by a book before), that I feel compelled to write this review. If I can save one person from spending money on this piece of literature, then I will at least have got some satisfaction out of buying what is the worst book I have ever owned. The review above by Robert Zraick is spot on, it's insulting, badly written, badly illustrated. I'm mystified as to how anyone could give this crap a rating of five, let alone even publish such utter rubbish. I just wish I had listened to Robert. Anyone that disagrees with Roberts review must either have an agenda (i.e. they have a relationship with the talent-less author), or they are actually quite intellectually challenged. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a professor, and I'm only an amateur photographer, but this book is just terrible, so if I can work that out most of you will too. This book is written by Jeremy Vineyard, who is apparently "a writer and avid student of film" (his description).......This should read, who has never completed any elements of formal study, has no industry experience, has never worked professionally as a DOP and is a world expert in setting up a shot... In short, this guy sat in front of his video player watched a ton of movies, wrote down as many different types shots as he could identify, had his mate draw up some equally amateur pictures (by Jose Cruz, who is unfortunately talent-less as well. I'm not kidding, an 8 year old can do better illustrations) and then made up some really neaty names for each one (just to help you remember the shots)..... my god, how did this is ever get published, it's a total tragedy. Just to help us further, he's included some tuition in the form of some really brilliant exercises to help with your development. These follow after each chapter, which is to help hone your skills. Here's a word for word example of an 'exercise' from `Exercises' page 22. "Read a few good books on composition" (no recommendations given). That's Jeremy's very special piece of advice, just for us. Thanks Jeremy, you're a star. I'm running out the door right now to find that good book. Your wisdom, direction and skilful tuition techniques has truly changed my life. Another personal favourite is "Visit an art gallery or read a photography book" (also a verbatim copy of an `exercise'). On every page you get "This Jeremy's made up name for the shot", followed by the title "What does it look like" then a couple of paragraphs and then the title "Where can I see it" which is where he points you to a specific film (not the scene as that would require additional writing skills)....this is on every page, it drives you crazy. Unless your IQ is the same size as your shoe size, don't buy this crap. Go and get a copy of "The Five C's of Cinematography" and don't waste you time on this amateur (it's not even amateur, its actually worse than that) attempt to be creative. The 5 C's is written with the same intent as this book, but delivers what this doesn't, and it's written by an experienced professional. This book is B grade rubbish, do yourself a favour, don't buy it.