Foreword

I find James (Jim) Johnson to be unique and unparalleled among technical writers. His complete, detailed description of every feature of the Canon 6D truly makes you feel as though he is right there with you, guiding you step by step, anticipating your every question. A teaching term used to describe the best possible learning environment an instructor can provide a student for maximum understanding and retention applies here: Jim is truly “the guide by your side.”

So why do you need this guide to the Canon 6D? If you own or intend to purchase the 6D, you have, or will have, the Canon 6D Instruction Manual. Perhaps you already have a Canon 6D technical guide written by another author. So why buy another? What makes this text unique and more valuable to your learning curve?

Jim’s writing style is efficient and thorough. For an example of the ease with which you are guided through this Canon 6D book, look at the information pertaining to the Quick Control button. If you look in the index for this feature, you’ll note that Jim first explains its use and benefit in chapter 2. He clearly describes how to locate and identify the button and introduces its operation. There is further explanation in chapters 3 and 4. In addition, other buttons and dials that affect the use of this control are thoroughly explained. When you are ready to shoot, you don’t want to be bogged down by searching through menus; after reading this guide, you will be able, with practice, to use the Quick Control button, and any other control on your 6D camera, in a quick and confident manner.

Jim meets the criteria for being a quality educator and instructor: he is completely knowledgeable about his subject, and he is able to effectively communicate that knowledge to the learner. In a classroom, checking for understanding can be accomplished by quizzing the students. In the case of this guide, where learning is a very personal endeavor, thoroughness of understanding and ease of application are important, so every function of the EOS 6D is explained and then cross-referenced with other interrelated functions and buttons. A good approach is to sit with your camera and follow along step by step, chapter by chapter, completely immersing yourself in information about every feature as Jim sits over your shoulder and helps you learn the power of the Canon 6D.

Bob Canepa