Today, if black and white photographs are brought before you, you will most probably be tempted to ask, “Why black and white when I can get color?” Believe it or not, black and white photography gains an extra edge over color photography when you do not have a perfect shooting condition. What’s more, you will find your ordinary color photo earn compliments when taken in black and white.
If photography is your passion, then you must know that good photography has the beauty and the ability to stop the pace of time and black and white photographs boast about both these features.
When to opt for black and white photography?
You might be confused regarding when to select black and white photography. Here are some tips:
If you are shooting outside on cloudy days, then black and white photography will be the best option. Lack of proper lighting, may make your color photos appear to be dull, but if it is black and white the prints will still appear to be fabulous. An experienced photographer will prefer black and white shooting on a dull day.
If you want a close-up shot of yourself to be taken and do not want your friends to spot your blemishes, then go all black and white. Yes, black and white photography conceals your blemishes in a close-up shot. Moreover, black and white photographs do away with the striking difference that shows between the bright face and the gloomy background.
Black and white photographs are known for their classic appeal and bring forth the romanticism in occasions like weddings.
Some facts about black and white photography
First and foremost, you must know that there are no different set of principles for color photography and black and white photography. Black and white photography can be as easy as color photography.
If you are using a black and white film, keep in mind that the shapes and lines in your frame can be distinctly visible in the picture. Your next concern, should be to look at the color tones. If you want your picture to look perfect, then you have to acquire the skill of contrasting light areas with darker areas.
Start practicing with a few black and white rolls of film to gain the experience regarding black and white photography.
Black and white photography vs. color photography
A photographer knows that the efficiency through which a black and white photograph can bring forth dark emotions like loss and depression cannot be compared to color photographs. However, when it comes to passionate emotions, like enthusiasm and joy, opting for color photography will be the best option.
The advanced photographer knows how to incorporate color as well as black and white photography for creating a scene. The picture is rendered a sophisticated look by highlighting the elements of joy in color and the negative elements in black and white.
Though color photography is much in demand for shooting landscapes. Shots of landscape or any other images in black and white usually appear to be fine works of art.
The usage of filter is vital for both color as well as black and white photography. A good photographer will advise you to use the polarizing filter in black and white photography. This helps the sky to be visible and reduces the harshness of the sun rays.
Unlike a color film, a black and white film still lets you capture detail when you underexpose at two stops. When you overexpose, the range is greater, allowing between five and seven stops. This is the film latitude, which accepts your errors.
If you want meaningful and personal images, go for the black and white photography.
Tags: Photography
EH says :
Well, i was told that shooting in black and white needs a meaning. Now, i know what a black and white image tells. Thanks for posting!
May 31 , 2007 , 5:31 am