Computer vision refers to the functions of a computer that are designed to digitally recognize real images, analyze them, and act on them. A security professional, for example, might use computer vision in a surveillance system that is designed to recognize intruders. To choose the best computer vision book, you first should consider from which approach you might read a text. For example, a computer engineering student probably needs a computer vision book that covers theories and instruction. A researcher interested in the intersections between computers and regular society, on the other hand, should choose a computer vision book that is written from a more sociological perspective.
Regardless of what your objectives are, the best computer vision book is probably written by a specialist recognized in his or her field. Before settling on a text, perform a little research. For example, by turning to the back page of a book, you might find an author biography. A biography should include all publications and experiences acquired by an author that make him or her an expert on computers.
In some cases, you might find that authors have written many books. Make sure at least a few of these books are related to computer vision. An author who has written hundreds of books on gardening and traveling, for example, probably isn't the best author for a computer vision book. Some popular science writers, however, may write about a number of different fields and disciplines. If an author seems to have a broad readership, you might feel safer trusting him or her.
When you are in doubt, it's a good idea to read book reviews and recommendations before choosing a computer vision book. The Internet provides consumers with some great tools for shopping for books and other items. Some online books retailers, for example, include customer reviews on pages where consumers can learn about books. When using customer reviews, however, remember to use some critical thinking. If you need a computer vision book so you can program a system that monitors manufacturing processes, a book that has a reputation for being engaging and well written probably is not your best choice.
Students who need computer vision books should consult their instructors. A professor almost always includes required reading on his or her class syllabus. Students who are interested in finding some supplemental reading that can help them to gain a better grasp of material also should ask their instructors for suggestions.
