Black and White Photography

Black and white photography is considered by some to be more difficult than color photography, simply because color ceases to be an element in the finished product. However, it is still an element to be considered while shooting, because color affects what greys, whites, and blacks you get as a result. Black and white can make your photos much simpler, pared down to the basics. This can make photographs appear more serious or scary, or even take away considerations of decade or century. Photographs also need different development in post, as well as different considerations for grain.

Here's a preview of what you'll learn:

• Deciding whether or not to shoot in black and white: there is no right or wrong answer; they can be for aesthetic consideration or to make an image less distracting.
• Tonal differences and contrast: I explain why color is still important, because the color content of a scene will affect your tonal ranges.
• Being technically competent: This tip explains the usage of different ISOs and how black and white grain differs from color grain.
• Pay attention to the light: Light is very important in any photo, but here, it can help change the mood of a black and white photo very quickly.
• Texture: Texture becomes even more important in black and white photos than it does in color, because you have one less element to work with.
• Composition: Refer to this tip for a short refresher on the elements of composition, and how you can use them to make your photos stronger.
• Headshots: This tip explains the pros and cons of shooting headshots in black and white, as well as things to consider when doing so.
• Post Processing: Learn how to control your color channels and contrast in reference to black and white photos.
• Creating almost black and white photos: Learn how to purposefully create such images to delight viewers at their subtlety.