How to Capture Stunning Black and White Photos
A
lot of people believe that good photos are those that display a wide
array of beautiful colors. However, let me tell you that this is
completely untrue. There are some forms of
photography
that are devoid of any striking colors but still come up as stunning as
those that have them. Consider monochromatic, infrared and black and
white photography and you’ll know what I mean.
Black and white photography is a very special form of photography.
Black and white images are often described as classic, elegant and
romantic in their own special way.
Shooting Black and White photos can be quite a challenge since you
have to look at the world in black and white before you shoot. Needless
to say, coming up with good quality B&W photos can be a challenging
task since you need to thoroughly understand your subject and the effect
of
lighting
on your subject before you can even begin to plan how you would want to
compose your final image. Sounds tricky enough for you? Well, if you
are serious in mastering the art of taking B&W photos, here are some
tips that you should always keep in mind:
Pay special attention to your viewpoint. Always
remember that your viewpoint is one of the most important considerations
in shooting good quality black and white images. As such, you should
already have an idea of what you want to photograph, how you would like
to present it to your viewers and the angles that will bring the best
results before you even click your shutter release button.
Use
lighting to your advantage. Light plays a very important role in black
and white photography. Since your images will be devoid of any colors,
you should make sure that there is sufficient light to allow your
viewers to clearly distinguish the details of your images.
You should try to understand the quality and direction of the light
you are using. Keep in mind that using direct light will lend your
images some sharp dark shadows while using a softer light will produce
softer tones of gray.
The direction of light can also help you get the effect you want
since it will affect both the depth and dimension of your images. Using
front lights to illuminate your subject will emphasize texture and depth
while using rear lighting will help in reducing details. Using side
lights, on the other hand, will give your images a larger dimension and
may add more drama to your photos.
Pay special attention to lines, shapes and textures. Without colors
to draw your viewers’ attention to your images, you will have to rely on
the shape, lines, patterns and textures of your subject. Using lines
and shapes effectively can help draw your viewers’ eyes to your images
and give your images a sense of movement and dynamism while capturing
the unique textures in your subject can lend it a sense of realism.
Explore the power of patterns. Capturing images of
patterns in black and white can produce some compelling images that are
totally ignored when the same shot is done in color. Let’s face it –
color can sometimes take your attention away from the intended subject.
As such, taking colors away from your images can help your viewers focus
on the more important aspects of your photos.
Use contrast to make your subject pop out. Learn how to use contrasting shades of black and white in highlighting and adding depth to your images.
Shoot during overcast days. While those who prefer
to shoot in color may be dismayed at days like these, shooting in black
and white under low contrast conditions will definitely give you the
best results you can ever imagine.
Use the right camera settings. You can capture the
best black and white images by using the lowest ISO setting in your
camera. This will reduce the ‘noise’ that is usually much more
noticeable in B&W photos.
Do you think you can start mastering the technique of taking great
black and white photos after reading these tips? Well, there is no
reason why you shouldn’t. Have a look at what I’ve provided for you here
– this will change your knowledge and skills of
available photography techniques very quickly and regularly too.
So, take your camera out and start exploring the wonderful world of black and white photography. You will love it!
Have fun shooting in black and white,
Roy Barker
PS.
It's one thing to learn a few tips from these articles I provide you
for free but this link takes you to where you will learn how to
get 'paying customers' to your photography business. Hey, but if you don't need customers, skip it!
