I actually picked up this book based on the reviews here, and I must say, I was not disappointed. I had previously used the Magic Lantern series of guides on an earlier model, and this book is FAR more informative. My impression of the Magic Lanterns was that they were simply a slightly more detailed version of the Canon camera manual itself. This book, on the other hand, goes a step farther, focusing not only on the functions of the camera itself, but also providing useful information on APPLYING those functions. Lots of information presented in easily-digestible sections, along with full-color photgraphs throughout to demonstrate the particular topics being discussed.

This book also contains material that provides a good introduction to novice photgraphers on basic photography concepts like exposure, and provides a good brief intro to beginner and experienced photgrapher alike on digital photography specifically.

In short, this book is great for the novice photographer, the novice digital photogrpaher, or the experienced photographer looking to maximize his or her enjoyment and understanding of a sophisticated piece of techinolgoy, the 50D.

I bought my 50D in 11/08 and bought her book on the 40D before books on the 50D came out. It helped me out immediately. My previous cameras were the New F1 and AE1 Program (early 80's film cameras). I had no digital experience. This book is must if you're not familiar with digital. Also must for the 50D owner!!
Bob

This book takes the place of the owner's manual. The 50D is my fourth Canon DSLR. I was fortunate to discover Charlotte Lowrie's Digital Field Guide with my first Canon and with each camera after, I have immediately bought her guidebook. The 50D edition does not disappoint. The language is clear and the illustrations are great. The book provides all the information you could ever need to get the most out of the 50D whether you are a beginner or a more experienced shooter.
The Digital Field Guide is more than just a manual for the 50D however; it is also a solid guide to using the camera in the real world. There is a very useful section on selecting and using lenses and also on flash photography. Even the appendices are useful: one covers exposure, another covers maintenance of the 50D. A highlight, and a strong suit of the author, is the section on RAW capture; I took her RAW class @ BetterPhoto.com and she really knows her subject.

This digital field guide is between concise and comprehensive. It tells you how to set up, how to control exposure and focus, color quality control, customizing those pesky custom functions, and shooting live view along with tethering notes.
I've read two other Canon 50D books as well as the manual. This IS the book to get! It enhances the local issues of the 50D with use of flash, ambient light, lens selection and metering concerns. The book takes the basic 50D concepts-->advanced information and enters into practical "Field" issues: Macro, portrait, landscape, event and action/sports problems.
This easy to read field guide will allow you to use all of the advanced features of the 50D and elevate your skill level.
I have taken classes with the author and not only is she a great instructor but a great writer. If you own or thinking of owning a Canon 50D don't leave home without this fine book. It's easy to read and filed with golden nuggets of invaluable advise.

This book is a must for beginner to intermediate photographers. The author covers topics related to photography in general and how to apply the concepts in the camera specifically. From the very first chapter, I learned something that I didn't already know and I've been using a 20D for years! The chapters on general setup and on customizing the camera were very helpful. Not only were the options clearly explained, she also stated the implications and recommendations for the particular choice. By applying some of the recommended settings, it makes using the camera quicker and easier to use!

This book talks about many general photography concepts. Exposure is something that I've struggled to learn. It is explained in a easily understood manner. The details are restated in different ways to help the reader understand the concepts.

It is evident that she has used the 50D in the field, shooting in different conditions. Throughout the book she offers tips from her own photography experience and from using the 50D. She gives excellent advice for what to bring on a specific type of shoot and the camera settings that are most effective in the particular situation. Reading this book seems like you have an expert right alongside of you!