Past Traces: Andrew Firth

[Andrew Firth]

Just thought I'd add that my copy of Louis Berk's "Walk to Work" arrived the other day, and it really is everything I was expecting and more. For those of us who also have a general interest in the streets and buildings of the east end, as well as an interest in JtR, this really does come highly recommended.

I've left some feedback over on Louis' blurb page:
"I cannot recommend this book enough! Featuring a beautiful collection of photos taken in and around the east end of London on the author's morning walk to work; hence the title. Louis has a real talent for spotting scenes that many would think of being "mundane" or "ordinary" but capturing them in such an eye-catching way that really makes you think. The book documents the amazing change of scenery in little over a mile, between the glass office towers around Liverpool Street, and the small market stalls serving the local communities around Whitechapel station. The standard of photography is excellent throughout; different lighting conditions being used to good effect, with colours and contrast on each image particularly apparent. Very much recommended for anyone with an interest in the east end of London, and for anyone who likes urban photography. My congratulations to Mr Berk!"

All the best
Andrew

[JennyL]

Stunning images, Andrew-now I'm even happier I have the book on order. Thanks for posting them.

-Jenny

[Andrew Firth]

A few of the page layouts from "Past Traces"

A few screen grabs here of the page layouts from the book. Unfortunately blurb.com only allow you to preview the first 15 pages on their site, so these are from later on in the book.

The former George Yard looking north.


A montage showing Puma Court.


The layout of Church Passage


A page all about the City Police officers beats in the vicinity of Mitre Square.


One of the chapter heading pages. This one shows Princelet Street.


All the best
Andrew

[Andrew Firth]

I'm not going to start a separate thread for this because, technically, it isn't related to JtR, but Louis Berk's book Walk to Work is well worth acquiring in addition to Andrew's. Berk isn't particularly interested in our boy, although he mentions him once or twice; nonetheless, those of us with an interest in the East End will find much to admire here. The standard edition, hardcover, is only about $45 (US) and is also available from Blurb. Berk has captured some great shots.

I'll second that! I shall be making a purchase of "Walk to Work" next week. The quality of his photographic work is second to none. He also has a Flickr page which is worth checking out at http://www.flickr.com/photos/louisb/

All the best
Andrew

[The Grave Maurice]

I'm not going to start a separate thread for this because, technically, it isn't related to JtR, but Louis Berk's book Walk to Work is well worth acquiring in addition to Andrew's. Berk isn't particularly interested in our boy, although he mentions him once or twice; nonetheless, those of us with an interest in the East End will find much to admire here. The standard edition, hardcover, is only about $45 (US) and is also available from Blurb. Berk has captured some great shots.

[The Grave Maurice]

Wow. Well, the photos, montages, and text are all first-rate. It's an exceptionally good book, Andrew. Congratulations.

[The Grave Maurice]

Hi Andrew,

You were right. The book had arrived when I got home this evening. It was mailed from Seattle.

I've had a quick look-through, and it's excellent. You, once again, show me the difference between a photographer (me) and a talented photographer (you). Some of your stuff is pure art, mate. I have shots of nearly everything that you do, but mine aren't half as good. I'll try using your technique of low angles. (Although, believe me, the older you get, the harder that is to do.)

I'll spend more time with your book this evening and will, undoubtedly, be back with more praise.

[JennyL]

I've just finally ordered Past Traces and can't wait. Talk about testimonials...the video didn't hurt either. All these things will have to suffice til my next trip to those parts.

I discovered I've ordered from Blurb before, incidentally; it was a very well produced volume and I'm sure they'll ship quickly, printing as you say from within the US.
-Jenny

[Andrew Firth]

GM,

Your wait may not be all that long. UK and Europe orders are printed up and mailed from the Netherlands, but my understanding is, that with orders from Canada and the US, they're printed on that side of the pond.

The joys of electronic publishing eh?

All the best
Andrew

[The Grave Maurice]

I ordered a copy of the book as soon as I heard about it, and a copy of Louis Berk's also. I (like all of us, I'm sure) am a great admirer of Andrew's work. Virtually the only regret I have about living out here in the far reaches of the (former) Empire, is that it takes so long for books from the UK to arrive.

[Andrew Firth]

I'd love to do some more of those overlays, but unfortunately the original source material, (i.e. the old photographs) tend to still be in copyright, so it's a bit of a no-go. But on the photos front, I'll be taking more shots in the next few months, which will appear on the East End Photographs and Drawings thread, and also will go on my Flickr page.

All the best
Andrew

[Suzi]

You could!...or maybe lurk to sign copies of the book!!! I concur with John some of those overlays are heart stopping!!!

[Andrew Firth]

Damn, I was looking forward to meeting you.

Monty

Well, I suppose I could always hang around outside selling chestnuts!

Andrew

[Monty]

Damn, I was looking forward to meeting you.

Monty

[Andrew Firth]

Andrew, I know youre reading this, youre the author and ego drags us all to adulation, will you be going to the conference?

Monty

Wish I was Monty, but I'm afraid I missed the boat on that one.

Andrew