Black-and-White Photography: Images in Monochrome

Expand your inner creativity with black-and-white photography.

Story and photos by Chris Collard

My first camera was a Kodak 110 Instamatic, received for selling magazine subscriptions for a school fundraiser. It didn’t have a flash, zoom lens or any adjustments; simply point, press the button, and hope for the best. Color film was more expensive at the time, so I opted for black-and-white film (give me a break! I was only 9 years old).

My financial predicament was not a deterrent, however, because while pouring through the pages of National Geographic, I realized that the masters of monochrome could create images of unparalleled beauty. They understood how to work with tonal qualities of a scene, how shadows played on a subject, how to manage contrast and how to capture rich textures in the natural world. In the darkroom, they painstakingly experimented under the enlarger, working with a variety of techniques to render their prints into works of art.

An Original Art Form

If we traveled back in time, we’d discover that black-and-white is the original art form, with its seeds sown long before the dawn of the Dark Ages. Some of the earliest cave paintings, dating back 30,000 years, were sketched with ash from a fire or the end of a smoldering branch. They depicted humans on the hunt, the prey they pursued and the weapons used to bring them down.

Although we loosely refer to black-and-white photography as “monochrome” or “grayscale,” the final product comprises gray tones that lie between white (the absence of color) and black (consisting of the primary colors, red, blue and yellow, combined). The color spectrum was absent from consumer photography for nearly 100 years, until Eastman Kodak introduced 35mm Kodachrome in 1936. It required a steep learning curve; the cost was rather dear; and it didn’t hit the mainstream until the 1960s. Nevertheless, renowned photographers such as Ansel Adams dismissed this new format, instead focusing on mastering methods of presenting the natural world in black, white and infinite shades of gray.

Texture, Contrast and Patterns

My first words of advice are to head into the field with monochrome in your mental “tool bag.” That is, as you are assessing a particular scene, think about what frames contain the texture and tonal qualities that might render a compelling black-and-white photo.

As you look through my selection for this “Viewfinder,” you’ll note that each subject embraces the epoch of time eternal: the chiseled wrinkles of an elder’s skin, weathered wood panels on a miner’s cabin, sandstone sculpted by wind and water. I personally wouldn’t find interest in a black-and-white photo of a modern skyscraper … but, photograph Mesa Arch in Utah’s Canyonlands National Park in monochrome, and you have my attention. Nevertheless, this is only my vision; and, as you expand your inner creativity, you’ll develop your own style. Black-and-white photography is not limited to any one genre.

I look for patterns, defined lines or shapes that dissect a frame into its various elements. They might be vertical, horizontal, a convex polygon—anything. The purpose is to draw the viewer’s eyes across the scene, enticing them to explore further.

Texture is also a key element. After all, who doesn’t love the weathered grain of barnwood? Once you’ve captured the image, work with it in the digital darkroom to make local adjustments to contrast, clarity and sharpness. You’ll be surprised how the fissured grain pops from the image.

TIP: Subjects with texture and patterns are good choices for monochrome conversions.

‘Dodge’ and ‘Burn’

Ansel Adams experimented with “dodging” (lightening) and “burning” (darkening) elements of a print. He did this under an enlarger by waving carefully cut cardboard over certain areas, but we have the luxury of sophisticated computer software. If we don’t like the result, we simply back up and try again.

My tools of the trade are Adobe products—Photoshop, Lightroom and Bridge—which I regularly use to highlight or subdue portions of an image—in both color and black-and-white photography.

The examples below are of a potter I met in the High Atlas, Morocco. While I loved the ocher tones of the original color version, I wondered what it would look like in black-and-white. The straight conversion needed help, because it didn’t highlight the subject as the focal point. By burning the background and gently dodging specular highlights, I was able to separate him from his surroundings, drawing the viewer’s eye to the detail of his skin, as well as his weathered hands working the clay, and increase the scene’s perceived depth-of-field.

TIP: The dodge-and-burn technique can be used to highlight or darken areas of an image. 

Shoot-out at High Noon

The “magic hours”—the 30 minutes that bookend sunrise and sunset—are ideal for capturing vivid color.

Others might put their cameras away at midday, but using monochrome reveals a new realm of opportunity for those who want to keep shooting. Contrast from the harsh shadows created at midday can add dimension. Vivid colors that lose their luster as the sun hits high noon become a creative canvas in the digital darkroom. But, be warned, my friends: This won’t make up for a poorly composed or exposed image.

Working with the black-and-white “color” mixer slide bars, you’ll find that even in monochrome, you can drastically change the appearance. Sliding the blue bar to the left will darken a blue sky. Moving it to the far right will make it appear nearly white. Pretty cool, eh?

Having said this, I suggest you keep an eye on the histogram. Make sure the blacks (left side) and whites (right side) are tapering down to near nil and that the middle 90 percent looks like the back of a camel; that is, a predominant hump somewhere on the X-axis. If the camel’s hump butts up against either side, there’ll be little or no detail in those portions of the frame.

TIP: Rendering an image in black and white can compensate for difficult lighting. 

RAW vs. JPEG

I’m often asked if you should shoot in .jpg or RAW format. By all means, shoot in RAW and in the largest file size available. The reason is that when working in RAW, adjustments won’t permanently affect the file. They’re merely a set of instructions on how the photograph should be displayed in a program that recognizes them. When you’re happy with the look, the image then needs to be exported to your chosen format (.jpg or TIFF) for publication or sharing.

Tip: Shoot in your camera’s largest file setting and in RAW format.

‘Schindler’s Effect’

Playing with a combination of the color mixer, brush and saturation tools, you can isolate a specific area. Steven Spielberg did a remarkable job of this with the little girl wearing a red coat in the movie, Schindler’s List, but you can do it in the digital darkroom. Experiment via Lightroom or Bridge, desaturating areas you want to be monochrome and leaving the subject alone. I like the effect, but I use it sparingly. (You can also accomplish this in Photoshop using layer masks, but that’s a topic for another “Viewfinder.”)

TIP: Working with brush and desaturation tools can isolate the subject from its surroundings.

Final Frame

That 9-year-old kid (me) eventually secured a paper route and moved up to color film and a 35mm camera. Nevertheless, as I developed my photographic skills, I didn’t forget the lessons learned by observing the masters. Black-and-white photography, as is the case with any creative pursuit, is about personal style. I was wearing a grungy safari hat and “pockety” cargo pants long before it became “overland vogue”—but that’s just my style. Pick yours, embrace it, experiment in the digital darkroom, and share with friends. If they say, “That should be in National Geographic!” you’ve learned well, young grasshopper.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who are some great black and white photographers to study?

Noteworthy Black and White Photographers to Explore

Delving into the world of black and white photography can offer a profound understanding of light, composition, and emotion. Here’s a curated list of photographers known for their impactful monochrome work:

1. Henri Cartier-Bresson: Often hailed as the father of street photography, his keen eye for the “decisive moment” captures spontaneity and humanism.
2. Josef Koudelka: Renowned for his raw and evocative imagery, Koudelka’s work offers glimpses into the lives of marginalized communities.
3. Vivian Maier: An enigmatic figure, Maier’s street photography brilliantly juxtaposes the mundane with the extraordinary, revealing everyday life with depth and humor.
4. Lee Friedlander: Known for complex compositions and unconventional perspectives, Friedlander’s work explores urban and suburban landscapes with a unique vision.
5. Garry Winogrand: A master of capturing the chaos and vibrancy of American life, his dynamic street scenes offer a candid glimpse into 20th-century culture.
6. Richard Avedon: Renowned for his iconic portraits, Avedon fused fashion with fine art, creating striking images rooted in simplicity and drama.
7. Diane Arbus: Her portraits often highlight the beauty and strangeness in human diversity, offering a poignant exploration of identity.
8. Bruce Gilden: With a bold and confrontational style, Gilden’s street photography confronts viewers with the gritty realities of urban life.
9. André Kertész: Celebrated for his innovative compositions, Kertész’s work is marked by an elegant simplicity and poignant narrative quality.
10. Daido Moriyama: Known for his gritty, high-contrast images, Moriyama’s work captures the raw energy of urban Japan.
11. W. Eugene Smith: His photo essays possess a storytelling depth that conveys powerful narratives and social commentary.

Each of these photographers has made significant contributions to black and white photography, offering invaluable insights into the art form. Studying their works can inspire and enhance one’s own photographic journey.

 

How can beginners get started with monochrome photography?

Starting with monochrome photography may seem daunting, but it’s easier than you think if you keep things straightforward. Here’s how you can dive into the world of black and white photography:

Simplify Your Camera Settings

• Adjust to Black and White Mode: Switch your digital camera to its black and white setting. Many cameras offer a high-contrast mode, which is perfect for emphasizing textures and shadows.
• Use Viewfinders for Visualization: Utilize your camera’s electronic viewfinder or LCD screen to see the world in monochrome. This helps in framing shots and understanding how colors translate to shades of gray.

Explore File Formats

• Shooting in JPEG: Start with shooting in JPEG if you’re looking to get instant results without the need for post-processing. This allows you to capture and assess your images in black and white immediately.
• Experiment with RAW Files: If you’re open to editing, shoot in RAW format. This grants you more flexibility in adjusting contrast and exposure during post-processing. Use popular photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Capture One to apply monochrome filters and refine your images.

Post-Processing Tips

• Try Pre-made Presets: Download free or purchased black and white presets from reputable sources. Applying these presets can offer a quick starting point and teach you about the nuances of monochrome editing.

By focusing on these simple steps, you can effectively begin your journey in monochrome photography and gradually develop your skills and personal style.

 

What are the advantages of shooting black and white film photography?

Advantages of Shooting Black and White Film Photography

Exploring black and white film photography opens up a unique creative journey, one that offers several compelling advantages over digital and color photography.

1. Enhanced Focus on Composition and Contrast

When you’re limited to black and white film, you’re compelled to pay closer attention to the elements of composition and contrast. The absence of color shifts your focus entirely to shape, texture, and the interplay of light and shadow. This heightened awareness can significantly improve your overall photographic skills, as you become more attuned to the subtleties that define a great shot.

2. Developing a Unique Artistic Vision

Shooting with black and white film encourages you to start perceiving the environment around you in monochrome. This shift in perspective can help you develop a unique artistic vision, allowing you to see patterns, lines, and contrasts in everyday scenes that might otherwise go unnoticed in color. It’s an exercise in training your eye to discern nuances that speak through grayscale.

3. Embracing the Element of Surprise

Unlike digital photography, where you can instantly review your shots, film photography involves a little mystery and anticipation. The inability to immediately view your images pushes you to be more deliberate with each photograph, often leading to delightful surprise results. This unpredictability can lead to a more thoughtful and intentional creative process.

4. An Authentic Experience Without the Temptation to Edit Colors

With digital photography, there’s always the allure of post-processing and reverting black and white images back to color. Shooting on film eliminates this temptation, ensuring your focus remains on capturing the essence of the scene as it unfolds. The purity of film photography can cultivate a more authentic and disciplined approach to your work.

5. Timeless and Emotional Appeal

Black and white images hold a timeless quality that often evokes emotion and nostalgia. They transcend the vividness of color by highlighting the raw emotions and stories within each frame. This classic appeal can imbue your work with a sense of depth and storytelling that resonates across generations.

By embracing black and white film photography, you not only challenge yourself creatively but also embark on a journey that enriches your capability to produce evocative, powerful images.

 

What are the durability benefits of black and white photographs compared to color?

Durability Benefits of Black and White Photographs Compared to Color

Black and white photographs offer significant advantages in terms of longevity and durability when compared to their color counterparts. Here’s why:

1. Long-Lasting Quality: Black and white images are less prone to fading over time. This is because the absence of color dyes makes monochrome prints more stable. Without the added complexity of colored inks, these photographs maintain their clarity and contrast for extended periods.
2. Resistance to Environmental Factors: Color prints are more susceptible to the effects of light and environmental conditions. Over time, exposure can cause color prints to weaken and lose vibrancy. Black and white photographs, on the other hand, resist these changes more effectively.
3. Archival Properties: Monochrome images are often favored for archival purposes. They are more likely to endure the test of time, potentially lasting hundreds of years with proper care. This makes them a preferred choice for preserving historical documents and capturing timeless moments.
4. Simplicity in Preservation: The simpler chemical structure of black and white photographs translates to fewer challenges in preservation. This simplicity makes it easier to safeguard the integrity of these images, ensuring they remain as striking as the day they were developed.

In summary, for those aiming to create and preserve photographs that withstand the passage of time, black and white photography offers a robust and reliable solution.

 

What is the best way to improve your skills in black and white photography?

To truly elevate your black and white photography, immerse yourself in the art. Just like any craft, the more you practice, the more your skills will flourish. Embrace black and white as your personal palette, striving for images that captivate and tell stories.

Steps to Mastery

1. Shoot Consistently: Make it a habit to shoot frequently. Each photo is a step closer to mastering the nuances of light and shadow.
2. Analyze and Reflect: After each session, review your work. Identify what worked and what could be improved. This reflection is crucial for growth.
3. Set High Standards: Aim to create images that are not just good, but legendary. Challenge yourself to capture moments that are powerful and moving.

Now, pick yours, embrace it, experiment in the digital darkroom, and share with friends. If they say, “That should be in National Geographic!” you’ve learned well, young grasshopper.

Experiment and Share

• Digital Darkroom: Use editing tools to refine your photographs. Experiment with contrast, brightness, and textures to make your images stand out.
• Feedback Loop: Share your work with peers or mentors. Constructive feedback can be invaluable, offering new perspectives and ideas.

By combining disciplined practice with creative exploration, your journey in black and white photography will be both rewarding and inspiring.

 

What goals should I set in my black and white photography journey?

Aim to create impactful and memorable photographs that stand out, pushing yourself to achieve a level of artistry that is both impressive and inspiring.

 

What mindset should I adopt for black and white photography?

Embrace monochrome as your unique artistic tool, and strive to become proficient in using it to express your creative vision.

 

How should I practice black and white photography?

The key to improving your black and white photography skills is consistent practice. Regularly taking photos helps you understand the nuances of monochrome imagery.

 

How can you simplify your composition when shooting in black and white?

When viewing a color image of Mesa Arch at sunrise, the mind’s eye is bombarded with intense hues of yellow and orange. Converting it to monochrome highlights texture in the sandstone, shadows, and depth of the scene that might otherwise go unnoticed.

As you look through my selection for this “Viewfinder,” you’ll note that each subject embraces the epoch of time eternal: the chiseled wrinkles of an elder’s skin, weathered wood panels on a miner’s cabin, sandstone sculpted by wind and water. I personally wouldn’t find interest in a black-and-white photo of a modern skyscraper … but photograph Mesa Arch in Utah’s Canyonlands National Park in monochrome, and you have my attention. Nevertheless, this is only my vision; and, as you expand your inner creativity, you’ll develop your own style. Black-and-white photography is not limited to any one genre.

To truly simplify your composition when shooting in black and white, consider these refined techniques:

1. Reduce clutter in the background – Simplifying your frame will allow the subject to stand out distinctly.
2. Focus on one person or thing – Concentrate on a central subject to enhance the emotional impact of your photograph.
3. Utilize a flash – This can be a useful tool to separate your subject from the background, providing clarity and focus.
4. Eliminate unnecessary elements – Instead of adding more to your frame, remove anything that doesn’t contribute to your narrative.
5. Get close and focus on interesting details – By honing in on specific details, you create a more intimate connection with your viewer.

Experiment with shooting through, or using, the reflections in paned windows. The author found the wavey reflection of this old building in Bodie, California, much more interesting in monochrome than the original color format.

I look for patterns, defined lines, or shapes that dissect a frame into its various elements. They might be vertical, horizontal, a convex polygon—anything. The purpose is to draw the viewer’s eyes across the scene, enticing them to explore further.

Texture is also a key element. After all, who doesn’t love the weathered grain of barnwood? Once you’ve captured the image, work with it in the digital darkroom to make local adjustments to contrast, clarity, and sharpness. You’ll be surprised how the fissured grain pops from the image.

These approaches not only simplify but also enrich your black-and-white photography, allowing the viewer to engage deeply with the subject matter.

 

Why choose black and white photography over color photography?

When viewing a color image of Mesa Arch at sunrise, the mind’s eye is bombarded with intense hues of yellow and orange. Converting it to monochrome highlights texture in the sandstone, shadows, and depth of the scene that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Choosing black and white photography over color isn’t about one being better or worse. It’s about embracing a distinct aesthetic. Black and white photography strips away the distractions of color, allowing the viewer to focus on the composition, contrast, and emotion conveyed through light and shadow. This medium is particularly appealing if you appreciate the timeless and classic feel it can evoke.

Too often, photographers might chase the monochrome look because it seems more “artistic,” but the true allure lies in genuinely loving how it transforms a scene. By eliminating color, black and white photography can bring out nuances that might be overshadowed in a vibrant palette, offering a fresh perspective on familiar subjects.

Whether you choose black and white to reveal hidden details or to capture a scene’s essence, the decision should reflect your personal style and vision. So, shoot monochrome not just for its artistic reputation, but because it resonates with how you see the world.

 

What should guide a photographer’s decision to pursue black and white photography?

A photographer should choose black and white photography if they genuinely appreciate the aesthetic. The decision should stem from a personal passion for the style rather than the desire to conform to trends or artistic stereotypes.

 

Is black and white photography inherently better or worse than color photography?

Black and white photography is neither superior nor inferior to color photography; it’s simply a different approach. Each has its unique appeal and purpose, allowing photographers to choose based on their artistic vision.

 

How can shooting in black and white simplify your photographic approach?

Others might put their cameras away at midday, but using monochrome reveals a new realm of opportunity for those who want to keep shooting. Contrast from the harsh shadows created at midday can add dimension. Vivid colors that lose their luster as the sun hits high noon become a creative canvas in the digital darkroom. But, be warned, my friends: this won’t make up for a poorly composed or exposed image.

Simplifying Your Photographic Approach with Monochrome

Shooting in black and white can significantly streamline your photographic process. By opting for monochrome, you eliminate the distraction of color, allowing you to focus on composition, texture, and contrast. If your camera offers a reliable film simulation preset, shooting in JPEG black and white can further reduce post-processing decisions, enabling you to concentrate on capturing the moment as it unfolds.

The true beauty of monochrome lies in its ability to cultivate creativity. With fewer choices to overwhelm you, you’ll find yourself pushing the boundaries of your imagination. This constraint encourages you to see the world differently, transforming everyday scenes into striking, novel images.

By embracing black and white photography, you not only open up possibilities in challenging lighting conditions but also simplify your approach, making each shot an opportunity for creative expression.

 

How does limiting options enhance creativity?

Limiting options can enhance creativity by compelling photographers to work within a set framework, which can lead to innovative solutions and fresh perspectives. By having fewer variables to manipulate, photographers are encouraged to explore new angles, compositions, and subjects, ultimately fostering a more creative approach to image-making.

 

How does shooting in black and white affect decision-making?

Shooting in black and white can streamline the decision-making process by reducing the emphasis on color management. Utilizing a good film simulation preset in your camera allows you to capture images directly in monochrome, which minimizes the need for post-processing adjustments related to color and lets you concentrate more on composition and subject matter.

 

Why is black and white photography considered timeless?

Each subject embraces the epoch of time eternal: the chiseled wrinkles of an elder’s skin, weathered wood panels on a miner’s cabin, sandstone sculpted by wind and water. These elements, captured in black and white, transcend the fleeting trends that color photography often falls prey to.

Black and white photography holds a unique place in the world of art due to its ability to maintain visual consistency throughout the ages. Unlike early color photographs that appear muted and inconsistent, or modern digital photos that can be overly saturated, monochrome stands firm in its minimalist simplicity. It eschews the distractions of color, allowing the essence of the subject to shine through unaltered by time.

In much the same way as ancient Chinese calligraphy, where black ink on white paper conveys a sublime beauty, black and white photography speaks to something timeless and universal. It captures not just moments, but the very soul of its subjects, holding a mirror to nature’s enduring artistry.

This timelessness is what ensures monochrome photography will remain relevant, offering a visual narrative that echoes through the corridors of history, untouched by the whims of modern aesthetics.

 

What qualities make monochrome photography timeless?

The timelessness of monochrome photography lies in its simplicity and minimalism, akin to the elegance of black ink on white paper in traditional art forms like calligraphy.

 

Why might monochrome photography be considered visually consistent?

Monochrome photography retains a visual consistency across different eras because it is unaffected by the color variations and technological changes that impact color photography.

 

How do early and modern color photographs differ aesthetically?

Early color photographs tend to have muted tones and inconsistent colors, influenced by the type of film used. In contrast, modern digital photos can exhibit a wide range of saturations, from highly saturated to perfectly balanced hues.

 

How does monochrome photography simplify the post-processing of images?

The beauty of working with RAW files is the ability to make adjustments without affecting the original image. Desaturating all areas except for a specific subject is what the author refers to as “Schindler’s Effect.”

Shooting in monochrome can greatly simplify post-processing. When you capture images in digital RAW and convert them to black and white, you encounter fewer processing options compared to color. This limitation can be beneficial, as it streamlines decision-making and reduces the complexity often associated with editing color images.

For many photographers, including myself, editing color photos can be challenging and time-consuming. Monochrome, on the other hand, offers a more straightforward path. The reduced choices in adjustments mean you can focus more on contrast, texture, and composition, enhancing the narrative of your shot.

By combining the flexibility of RAW with the simplicity of monochrome processing, photographers can achieve striking images with less hassle. This blend of creativity and efficiency allows for a more focused artistic expression.

 

What is the personal experience of editing monochrome versus color photos?

Many find black and white editing more straightforward, as it reduces the challenge of balancing various colors and allows for a more focused editing process.

 

Why is monochrome post-processing considered simpler than color?

Editing in black and white is less complex because it involves fewer choices compared to color editing, which requires handling multiple hues and tones.

 

How does shooting black and white photography simplify your visual perception?

When viewing a color image of Mesa Arch at sunrise, the mind’s eye is bombarded with intense hues of yellow and orange. Converting it to monochrome highlights texture in the sandstone, shadows, and depth of the scene that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Black and white photography simplifies your visual perception by removing the distraction of color. This allows you to concentrate on the fundamental elements of the scene. You focus more on shape, form, and the intricate details that color might overshadow.

Moreover, without color, the emotional and soulful aspects of an image come to the forefront. This shift encourages a deeper connection with the subject, inviting you to explore the underlying narrative and the mood conveyed through light and contrast.

In essence, black and white photography transforms how you engage with the world around you, offering a purer, more distilled visual experience.

 

What is the overall effect of black and white photography on how one sees the world?

Black and white photography simplifies the visual experience, encouraging viewers to perceive the world through a lens that emphasizes structural and emotional depth over superficial color.

 

How does the absence of color affect the viewer’s focus?

Without the distraction of color, the viewer’s attention is directed toward the fundamental components of the image, allowing for a deeper appreciation of its intrinsic qualities.

 

What elements become more apparent in black and white photography?

In black and white photography, elements such as shape, form, emotion, and the essence of the subject become more pronounced, as the removal of color allows these aspects to stand out.

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