“The Real Deal: Field Notes from the Life of a Working Photographer” (2022) is the latest page-turner from acclaimed American photographer Joe McNally. Part autobiography and part freelance photography bible of sorts, The Real Deal delivers a candid journey of McNally’s 40-year career in the industry.
The author
Joe McNally is an award-winning, critically acclaimed photographer. His career has taken him to 70 countries around the world while working in multiple formats and genres. From film to digital, photojournalism to advertising, McNally holds a wealth of photography experience. His lengthy list of clients includes National Geographic, LIFE Magazine and ESPN, to name just a few. “The Real Deal” is McNally’s fifth book (for a review on his iconic read, “The Hot Shoe Diaries,” click here.)
In the beginning
The first chapters of “The Real Deal” are devoted to the trials and tribulations McNally faced as a young photographer. He describes life in New York during the 70s as a young man trying to make it big. McNally’s honesty and candid approach to writing makes the book an easy read.
He is unreserved in recounting his early failures and personal lack of confidence. This draws the reader in from the start:
“I rummage through the equipment cases on those days, searching for not a lens or a light stand, but for something much more elusive: confidence. Or, perhaps, a way out.”
Joe McNally
You have to admit, hearing that one of the best photographers in the world also suffered from insecurities and imposter syndrome is somewhat relieving!
Field notes
Working your way through “The Real Deal” is effortless and lighthearted. The book itself is broken into short chapters — field notes, stories and lessons complemented with the images that inspired them.
While I read the book chronologically, you could easily open to a random chapter and enjoy what it delivers on its own.
McNally has a knack for teaching you things without using technical jargon. He intertwines tales of learning, failure and triumph with anecdotal stories and trans-generational tips for photographers of any genre. The history and evolution of photography is woven into his personal tales of life behind the lens.
McNally has a unique approach to writing that both informs and entertains the reader. Despite his immense success, he remains humble and down to earth.
Reading the book feels like you’re sitting with him at the local pub, swapping stories over a pint. His witty and sometimes quirky style is anything but dry and will be sure to keep you entertained.
“The Real Deal” does not cater to any one style or genre of photography, and can be enjoyed by anyone. I highly recommend checking it out!
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