When it comes to LEGO our passion tends to lean more towards Minifigures and the fun that can be had with them. Whether it’s building characters from scratch to taking photographs of them in action, we love them all!
So when we were given the opportunity to review a brand new book by Chronicle Books, we jumped at the chance. It takes a broad but focused look at photography in the World of LEGO, from bricks to Minifigures, it showcases over 30 talented photographers from all kinds of backgrounds and the amazing scenes they capture.
Upon opening the book you’re presented with a brief introduction, giving you a taste of the things to come. It highlights the two main LEGO communities that helped piece this publication together, BrickCentral and Stuck In Plastic.
Submitted to the book by members of the two powerhouse communities mentioned above, you get an eclectic mix of styles, angles and LEGO characters & pieces used.
What really hits you the most when you first open the book, is just how good the photos are, Chronicle Books have done a wonderful job in keeping the details sharp and the colours bright.
There must have been a fair few left on the cutting room floor, probably enough for another book. I follow the communities mentioned above and I must say their members produce outstanding work, not just with Minifigures but with official LEGO sets and MOCs. I think that is what sets this book apart from the rest, the fact that it focuses on LEGO in general and not just Minifigures.
There’s something magical about dropping a Minifigure, or small build, into real-life settings. Having the contrast between little and large, toy and nature, the great outdoors is a great place to take breathtaking photographs.
You’ll notice next to every photo there is a small caption, this highlights the creator, a title, where in the World they come from and a short paragraph describing the photo and how it came to be. Also presented is where you can find more of their work, it’s also featured on the back page with the following mentions to the two LEGO communities they originate, Brick Central and Stuck in Plastic.
Overall LEGO In Focus is a worthwhile book and one every budding or seasoned photographer should add to their collection. I found it particularly useful in finding new creators to seek out and follow on social media, it’s really surprising just how many big names have passed me by.
One aspect I would like to see in a LEGO book is that of how to actually take great looking photos in the first place. This book isn’t it but perhaps it could of touched on that subject slightly, or having a short ‘how to’ or ‘tips’ by some of the featured photographers.
LEGO In Focus is due to be published here in the UK on 13th October and North America 4th October. It can be pre-ordered from Amazon, Chronicle Books, and all good book retailers now.
Official details:
A vibrant and adventurous LEGO® photography book that sees the world in LEGO bricks and minifigures. LEGO® In Focus celebrates the boundless creativity of LEGO play through stunning brick and minifigure photography. Look through the lens of 50 toy photographers as they imagine the world from a LEGO point of view. This distinctive collection from creators across the globe explores minifigure-sized perspectives on nature, urban life, travel and adventure, and much more. From diving into the ocean’s depths and seeking shelter in a snowstorm, to dancing at a washing machine disco and enjoying ice cream on a summer day, each image offers surprises and hidden humor, while sharpening our focus to the magic of play. Detailed captions and behind-the-scenes progress images take us deeper into the bricks and elements that connect us. LEGO® In Focus is the perfect experiential, imaginative photography book for LEGO builders and dreamers alike.
Book Title: LEGO in Focus: Explore the Miniature World of LEGO Photography
Publisher: Chronicle Books
Pages: 160
RRP: £22.99/$30.00
ISBN: 9781797217604
Availability: Selected Book Retailers
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