When I first picked up this book I thought it was going to be a typical book on editing photographs. I really wish the title gave a better clue as to what it's about, which is one thing: Digital Workflow. And for that subject it gives a very good introduction for anyone who is trying to figure out how Adobe's Bridge, Photoshop, Lightroom and Camera Raw products fit together smoothly.

The first section, Setup, leads the reader through the fundamentals of digital images, principles of color and color management. Also discussed is the basics computer and work environment configuration to have the best editing experience. Finally each of the tools is given a general introduction.

The second and most significant section, Workflow, the book covers each of the steps that are typically part of a managed photographic digital workflow. For each step the reader is guided through determining which tool or tools are the right choices and what the tradeoffs might be between the tools.

The basic workflow description takes the reader through Capture & Import (Bridge, Lightroom and ACR), Organizing and Archiving Images (Bridge and Lightroom), Global Adjustments (Photoshop, Lightroom and ACR), Local Adjustments (Photoshop, Lightroom and ACR), Cleanup and Retouching (Photoshop and Lightroom), Creative Edits and Alternates (Bridge, Photoshop, Lightroom and ACR), and finally Ouput - Print, Web, and Presentation (Bridge, Photoshop and Lightroom).

Along the way you're introduced to lots of tips about how determine your own best method for using the various tools to fit your needs.

Developing a solid workflow is crucial for any photographer looking to making their post-processing as pleasant and efficient as possible. If you're looking for a book to teach details of how to use masks or selections, you might want to look for another book. But if you want a solid introduction to Digital Workflow and to make the most of the CS4 tools at your disposal and which one is the right tool for the job then Photoshop CS4 Photographer's Handbook is a good place to start.