This book is not only extremely attractive to look at but also thoroughly helpful-every detail is covered for the novice or for someone who has more experience. There is not only advice on how to paint and what materials you need and where to purchase them, but also on what type of photos work best. This book was so good I wound up buying a copy for my brother-in-law, a painter, and one copy for a good friend, who does not paint but who wanted to try her hand at handpainting photographs. Both of them loved it! It's an art book, as well as an excellent guide.