The technological excellence of compact (or point-and-shoot) cameras has freed the amateur photographer from the intimidating restraints imposed by 35mm cameras. In this guide, the author of The 35mm Photography Handbook demonstrates how the compact camera can be used easily, and without expert knowledge, to produce successful pictures. The techniques discussed are not aperture, shutter speed and equipment, but rather the reading of light, which film to use, composition and framing, the use of artificial lighting, portraiture, landscapes, action photography and close-ups. John Garrett also provides solutions to a number of problems that amateur photographers may encounter.