Publishing the Photographic Book

What makes the photobook so alluring for artists? Photobooks are an art piece, a marketing tool, and simply a pleasure to possess—or all of these simultaneously. The ability to publish a book is easier with the diverse methods of production, and the seemingly never-ending choices for designing and creating books from editions as small as one to thousands.

Melanie McWhorter is well-aware of the many changes in the industry in the last two decades and how artists self-publish, work with publishers, find funding, and, ultimately, make a book object that, if successful, conforms to the artist’s needs and the demand of the market. Some of the topics covered in this online workshop are: the nature and possibilities of the photobook and its almost unlimited design and production options; editing and sequencing a project, how to present this selection in a book format, and what that may say to an audience; where to find some online book-related resources; and some real-life models for successful production, promotion, and fundraising.

We look at examples of artist’s books, self-published titles, and works by contemporary publishers and discuss which avenue may be right for you. Each student has time to present and discuss their work in a communal format with feedback and input from your peers and the instructor.

Two guest speakers who are immersed in the world of contemporary publishing from Santa Fe and around the world join our online class gatherings to share their insights and perspectives.

Spend valuable time engaged with Melanie and a group of passionate photographers gaining knowledge about photobook objects and the great potential that this format has for your work.