Why Choose Black And White Photography

We see and live in a world full of colors. That is how we have evolved and it is naturally, the world that we know. There are different schools of thought when it comes to black and white photography. Some individuals believe that this was a technical limitation of the past and people need to get over it.

While others still believe that it is still an inventive choice that needs to even be reconnoitered in great depths. As the camera technology evolves, with more emphasis being placed on improved colors, why would one choose to shoot or process their images in black and white?

In this article, we take a look at the top reason why you might consider shooting, processing or converting your images to black and white.

1. Black and white helps you see differently

In the old adage, the photographers took shots in black and white, because they had no choice. However, even with the Kodachrome that introduced the world to color, there is still pursuance of black and white photos. This is due to the fact that black and white was and still is being seen as photography in its purest form. Whenever color is removed from the equation of an image, the emphasis shifts to the compositional element of the photo.

These factors include shape, lines, texture, tones, and contrasts. With this in mind, it is obvious that not all pictures will translate to black and white, thus as a photographer, you will have to deduce something else to work with besides the color. Most of the time, black and white assist you develop a different perspective from what you are used to seeing. This helps nurture your photographic eye.

2. Eliminates distractions

Human beings are set to view the world in color and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. At times, this contributes to other elements that might be lost. Some of the elements that are required in photography include texture, lighting, form, and shape.

When you take a shot in black and white, your challenge yourself to remove all the distractions of color. These include color cats and the difference in color temperature, and strong colorful elements that might reside on the background of the image.

Monochromic imagery always forces photographers to focus on shape, form, and texture while composing the image. With black and white photography, the distractions are removed and the colors are translated to gray that add to the image.

3. Offers Creative Choice

Since the world is obsessed with color, it is always safe to say the color depicts reality, hence the black and white photography is depicted as a rendition of reality.

When color is removed from an image, you not only isolate the different elements but also be compelled to find how they relate to each other. Therefore, it helps you to explore and create a different way of telling a story.

4. Adds mood and emotion

The variance tonal ranges or rich black and deep contrasts always appeal human psychologically. It helps create the connection that makes one stop and pay attention to whatever is being presented. Most photographers use black and white in storytelling, especially in street photography. In some genres, monochrome connects, strengthens and enhances mood and emotion.