Hi - this idea will only help if you access to a copier machine (I have a simple home copier). When I have those books that won't lie flat, I make a copy of each desired page (holding the book down hard with both hands or a heavy object while making the copy) - then I scan (or in your case, 'photograph') the copy page(s), which will now lie flat.
This isn't a perfect method, but it somewhat works.
Also, with shadows etc. - I use Photoshop, but you can use most any "photo-editing" program. Edit the scanned or 'photographed' page, use the "Brightness and Contrast" type settings, and play around with them. Often, I can adjust them to make the page more "black and white" and have less gradations and shadows. . .
Hope this helps a bit ...
Jim
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Genos / Tyros5 / HK Lucas Nano 600 / FTB Maxx 40a / EV ZX1A / Rock'n'Roller cart / Hauptwerk virtual pipe organ / misc other audio & music toys