My friend and Monalog Collective colleague Peter Schrager just self published an absolutely beautiful and intimate black and white monograph entitled Pleasure Yourself.  Now before you jump to conclusions about the somewhat interesting title of this marvelous book you must look at the pictures contained in it.

Peter has done an absolutely wonderful job in showing what a photographer can do on his or her own if their work merits the effort.  Pleasure Yourself is a wonderful collection of images displaying perfectly framed scenes of the Los Angeles urban landscape and associated artifacts, as well as writings by the photographer.  All are gems.

A case can be made that the title of Peter’s book is based upon one of the photographs contained in it, but I think there is more to it.  I think it is also related to the pleasure Peter took in tirelessly working to put together and oversee an absolutely first class effort. It should serve as an shining example of what is truly possible if a photographer is determined and dedicates him or herself to the accomplishment a lofty objective without care of the often self serving criticism of others.

In my opinion, Pleasure Yourself is a great achievement by one person with a singular and crystal clear vision. It is a testament to his work that will last a long time and will be enjoyed by those lucky enough to own a copy. As such, it is a great inspiration to me for what can be accomplished when you work hard to hone your vision and craft, and then make the effort and to put yourself out there, not to mention spend the funds necessary to present your visual statement to the world to see.

Pleasure Yourself is available directly from Peter Schrager by reaching him at peterschrager@sbcglobal.net or 310-855-4528.

Stay safe,

Michael