a good magazine that isn't always great

American Photo is a good magazine. The general layout is easy to follow, the photography news portions are always informative; the product reviews also. Technically, it's a nicely printed magazine that very accurately reproduces the photos featured.
Having said all that, not every issue is interesting. The publishers choice to have each issue focus on a specific area of, or theme in photography means that frequently I'm not impressed by the subject of the issue. They regularly feature a specific photographer. These are usually very informative and enjoyable issues. They also regularly focus on fashion or erotica. These CAN be informative and enjoyable, but aren't always. Likewise, they will produce issues about certain photographic themes, which aren't for everyone. I approve of this approach, since it means every issue will appeal to somebody, but not everybody. In other words, every issue may not be interesting to ME, but I applaud the risks they take in using this publishing approach.