Black and white photography has its own charm, isn't it? It is classy, creates a deep mood, and leaves enough room for creativity. It also helps the photographer to experiment with various lighting and composition techniques. You get the opportunity to work with patterns, textures, shades, composition, and tonal contrast. It is easy to make the photos dramatic.
If you are still not convinced about shooting in black and white, read this article till the end. When you finish it, you will get enough reasons to go for it. So, without wasting time, let's get started.
Why Should You Shoot In Black And White?
It Removes Distractions
When you click your photo in only black and white, it directs the audience’s eyes directly to the subject or the theme of the photo, instead of distracting them with unnecessary colors. For example, if you are shooting portrait photographs, and your model wears a too-colorful dress, chances are, people will notice the dress only, instead of the face. Here back and white photo wins with the minimalistic appeal it offers. So, keeping in mind the theme, genre, and mood of a particular assignment, you should decide whether to go for black and white or color. Also, when you want to emphasize highlights and contrasts, no color can beat black and white.
You Can Be More Creative With It
Undoubtedly, black and white photos offer much more opportunities for creative approaches. As you are not using colors, you are not restricted to showing something as it is exactly. You have the full creative liberty to play with highlights, patterns, and shadows. You create your own world which is different from what your audience sees. Also, it takes the usage of your full potential to draw their attention. Colors usually grab the eyes much easier. So, you must brainstorm to develop new, creative ways to make your black-and-white photos attractive.
It Adds Mood In The Photo
If you want to show moods and emotions in your photo, black and white would be the right choice. The tones and shadows of black and white photos offer much more opportunity to emphasize moods than any other color. Think of the iconic photo, “The Migrant Mother” by Dorothea Lange. The feelings of worry, sadness, and hopelessness on the mother’s face were portrayed amazingly through the highlights and contrasts of black and white. Even today, many famous photographers opt for black and white to tell emotional stories.
It Has A Classic Appeal
Everybody would agree that black and white photos are timeless. It is never outdated. Photographers have been using this style for centuries. No matter what the subject is, a black and white photo touches our hearts and makes us connected to it without much effort. It creates a nostalgic, romantic mood.
After going through all the reasons why you should shoot in black and white, you must be excited to start the new journey. Trust me, you will fall in love with it soon. All the best for this amazing adventure!!!!
Written By Sanga Basu, Content Writer, WPC.
