What is the magazine?

This publication is a fascinating range of photographs taken by a diverse range of people.

Stunningly produced in full gloss colour, the magazine represents (as Heather and Derek, the editors, explain) that middle ground of photographers between amateur and professional - those for whom photography is not their career but who transcend the basic "snap happy" skill set of the amateur snapper.

Time travel

Only going since January 2005, the magazine has followed the same quantum leap in the number of people taking quality photographs that flickr.com has. The first six issues show a magazine feeling its way and growing its own distinctive style. Each of the first six editions had one theme - sometimes loosely interpreted and in one case the theme was "no theme" - with a few associated articles and insights. The evolution of the magazine is such that there are now a range of themes in each issue (usually around 3) and a wider range of articles - one senses that this publication is not at the end of the journey yet. But for those of us who came to JPG Magazine later on, the opportunity to see the more focuessed (pun intended!) earlier editions at what works out to be a low price is greatly appreciated.

But why don't I just look at the website?

Well, most of us can't put a website on our coffee table. And, unless you're spoilt with one of those oh-so-expensive-but-oh-so-desireable Apple cinema displays, you'll not get to see them in quite the glorious colours of the original photographers' visions - Lulu's reproduction is incredibly good for print-on-demand and the match of any mass-produced rival. Finally, there's something about being able to put it on your shelf and look back when seeking inspiration for your own photography.