How'd They Do That?

You ever see a really cool pic that was taken by someone who obviously knows what they are doing and think to yourself "how in the world did they do that?".  If your anything like me, it happens all the time. 
I often browse the flickr pools and photography forums looking for images that make me mutter an involuntary "wow" for the sole purpose of trying to recreate in my mind how said image(s) was pulled off. 

Well, if your constantly trying to figure out lighting schemes of the "big boys" in order to take your photography to the next level, I have found a very helpful tool.

Meet my new bible (just kidding Jesus).  I have just ordered this little $20 gem of a book based on several rave reviews from different sources.  You can visit the website here.

Here is a quick excerpt from the product description:

"Learn to light your photographs creatively using small flashes and other lighting gear with 24 inspiring examples from contributors to David Hobby’s famed Web site, Strobist.com. On the reverse side of each photo you’ll find a lighting diagram and helpful tips. Tear out individual cards and take them with you for quick reference on your next shoot.
Printed on thick card stock with high end UV coatings, each photograph has been carefully reproduced at the highest image quality. There is one gallery worthy image on each card with insights and lighting diagrams on the flip side. Edited by Nice Photography Magazine's Zeke Kamm you can be sure these cards will help you raise your game and entertain you, too."

This is exactly the kind of nuts and bolts descriptive info I crave.  Volume's 1 and 2 each contain 24 images printed on card stock.  On the flip side of each image is a complete diagram with setup info on how the photographer was able to get the shot.  Anyone who is into using off camera flash would be crazy not to want this kind of information from such established photogs.

I plan on giving a full review of the book in the near future after I have played around with reproducing some of the images. 

Any volunteer models out there with a samuri sword willing to help me out?  If not I guess I'll have to recruit my 5 year old daughter again...............kidding...............sort of.