There are strong arguments on both sides of this debate.. An argument that has been a hot topic in the magic community since magic VHS videos started to appear in magic shops through the 1980’s.
So… Which is better? Is it better to learn from magic books or a DVD or Download Video?
WHY Magic Books Are Best
Magicians that love magic books claim that you develop your own personal style and presentation through learning via a magic book. Magic books teach you the moves, but don’t make you into a clone of the author.
Magic books give you far more for your money. Stiffed full of material they can be a wealth of new magic to learn.
You can research and reference them easily. At any time, you can jump into a magic book and discover something new.
They look great to collect and display (OK, that’s not technically related to learning magic, but it’s 100% a factor).
WHY Magic DVD’s and Downloads Are Best
A DVD shows you the full magic trick in detail, exactly as the inventor performs the effect. You see the full performance, timing, misdirection and spectator control in a way a magic book could never teach you.
A magic DVD can be paused, and you can quickly skip to sections of interest.
You don’t need to keep a magic video propped open whilst learning from it.
They are small and easy to store, and can be backed up (copyright permitting).
They tend to teach you less material, most often just one effect per DVD, which allows you to focus in on mastering a technique, before jumping from one trick to the next.
In truth, both formats have good and bad points. Which you decide to invest in will depend on your own preferred style of learning.
When I’m working with a magician on a one to one basis, I tend to suggests total beginners start with a magic DVD. I find that students that can see the trick performed, find it easier to learn, compared to text and illustrations only. Once the magician has the basics under their belt, books make a great resource that will deepen their knowledge.
What do you think? Is a magic book better than a video? Please share your thoughts with a reply below.
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