Kudos to Digital Photo Pro magazine for doing something that few magazines do well today: Tell you how to get things done. 

The July/August issue was a real gem and in my opinion well worth checking out at your local bookstore. Here is just a sampling of articles that really struck me:

Into The Combat Zone
As someone who has worked at a newspaper and photo agency, I found this profile piece on Tyler Hicks who works for the NYTimes very insightful for it's look on the challenge of shooting in a war zone, especially in the middle of a desert. If you've ever wanted to know how to prepare for a long term assignment where you literally have to go to the middle of nowhere, this is a great primer. From how he gets images to the Times (satellite with dish), why he shoots JPEG's, to the type of equipment and challenges keeping it clean, I came away with a much better understanding of the challenges and preparation that goes into such an assignment.

It's In The Light by Joshua Cooper and Lights Camera Action
It's the light stupid! That's how I would sum up these two articles on lighting by two very talented photographers who despite what medium, they use, realize that film or digital, it's the light and how you control it that makes or breaks the image.

Pimp My Camera
For those who've seen Monster Garage or House, this would be Monster Camera. Markus Klinko of well regarded photo studio Klinko and Indrani and his quest for the perfect camera. From taking off the shelf components to custom machining parts, his quest began after realizing that all the camera companies are focused on the consumer end and have left the pros behind. This article is for those who've been frustrated with the way cameras are made and want to try their hand making custom components to get what they want.

Asset Management & Copyright in the Digital Age
Two separate articles on a very important topic that benefits pros and amateurs alike. Finding your images, and making sure you are protected if someone decides to use your images without permission.

If you are serious about getting better at digital photography, you will not want to miss out on this magazine.