Black and White Photography
Black and white, or monochrome, photography is a widely-used method of producing images which can have a multitude of uses. It can create an atmospheric, stylised image which stands out from others in a set or it can be used to maintain a certain appearance throughout an entire photo shoot. The technique’s versatility has seen it remain popular with photographers and stand the test of time.
In many ways, using black and white photography might seem like quite an old fashioned technique to use, but this can be part of its whole appeal. There’s a sense of nostalgia about a black and white photograph which is difficult to recreate through other methods. It’s perfect for vintage or historical photo shoots where you want to convey a particular mood and atmosphere.
Setting your camera to shoot in monochrome is a simple process. If you have a digital camera you should be able to change it to a black and white setting which will automatically capture images in monochrome. Alternatively, use a filter which can be fitted over the lens to change the colour of your photographs.
Shooting in black and white has far more to it than simply changing the mode of your camera. You’ll need to recognise what will make good monochrome subject matter and learn how to capture it effectively. You might also choose to use editing equipment to fine tune your final images. As with anything photography-related, practice makes perfect and you will soon begin to improve your skills as you experiment.