The Basics - Black and White Photography
If you're interested in taking black and white photos, you'll need to learn how to use the different elements of this style. First of all, you should think about the tones and mood of your photo. In black and white photography, tones are the cornerstone of the composition. High-key images are dark and shadowy; light and bright photos are neutral. When taking a B&W photo, focus on the faces. Look for people with great expressions, showing their emotions, or possessing some unique quality.
Adding color to a photo is the next step in creating a great black and white image. Shooting in color gives you more opportunities to adjust the lighting, contrast, and saturation, while editing can improve black and white pictures. VSCO is one example of an app for black and gray photos. You should also ensure that your camera has a "black and white mode" feature. This will help you edit your pictures without affecting the quality of the image.
Another critical element in a black and white photograph is texture. Without color, textures can become striking and recognizable. To take good black and white photos, get close to your subject and capture details of the texture. The best textures have repeated lines, shapes, or patterns. By focusing on the texture, you can capture the essence of your subject. If you want to take a black and grey photo that shows mood, consider combining black and white with another color.
The use of natural light is an essential element in a black and white photo. You can also use different lighting techniques to create emphasis. For example, if you're taking a picture of a long hallway, you'll want to place the light facing the camera. Once you've chosen the right location, you can now select the best filters and adjust the exposure and contrast.
When taking a black and white photo, remember to always use a tripod. Try to take pictures with a variety of backgrounds to use the same composition. You can also try using a different perspective to make the most of the black and white effect. A black and white photo with a tripod will be more dramatic. If you're shooting in a studio, be sure to try the various angles in different lighting.
The next part of the process is deciding on the subject you want to photograph. While black and white photos can be an excellent option for many subjects, you must know what you're going to photograph before you begin. By choosing a subject you're interested in, you can take a black and white photo. If you don't like the way, the subject's color looks, try to find a color with a darker tone.
Take a moment and watch PHLEARN for some additional tips on B&W Photography