Just before Christmas, I went into a local used bookstore that on occasion has some gems in their stock. I picked up a book simply called “Sea” and I knew that this was a spectacular gem, indeed. It is one of the most beautiful books that I have had the pleasure to hold in my hands while feasting with my eyes!
When I got home, I researched the book but there was little to be seen. On Abebooks there were only 2 copies, not in fine condition but priced in the US$300s. Digging deeper, I viewed the photographer’s website that was quite informative and outlined his innovative approach to taking photographs. He published an earlier book called “Serpentine” that featured wonderful photos of snakes. On Abebooks, this book was priced US$600 and up. Fearlessly, I priced our book at US$500.
Here is the description used in our Abebooks listing:
From the blurb – In Sea photographer Mark Laita has focused his unique eye on the creatures of the deep. Underwater photographers have documented marine life many times before, but by using cutting-edge photographic techniques, Laita unveils the full splendor and otherworldliness of the ocean’s inhabitants, in an entirely new and thrilling way. Rippling reflections, stark backdrops, and surprising angles lay bare the astonishing beauty of the life that teems under the water’s surface. Leaping from the pages are piggybacking sea horses, iridescent jellyfish, ethereal but menacing stingrays, and deadly puffer fish. From the tiny clownfish to the whale shark, the wide range of species represented in this book offers a lavish study of form and color, which is then amplified by kaleidoscopic reflections on the underside of the water’s surface. Laita’s sensual imagery reveals the extraordinary colors, textures, and personalities of the sea’s incredible and unusual residents to us as never before.
This very large, square format book, pages measuring 12” X 12” is in fine condition in a fine dust jacket. There is not a white page in the entire volume. This is one of the most stunningly beautiful books that I have ever had the privilege to hold.
