which is better – black and white or colour?
We see and live in a world of colour.
But for me, I love black and white photography. It’s a part of the way I make photos and I couldn’t imagine my world without it.
The early masters of photography shot in black and white. And it remained that way for almost 100 years. Back then, they had no choice, but when Kodak introduced colour film to the world in 1935, black and white still remained popular.
“We have all fallen in love with the beauty and power of black and white photography where everything is stripped down to the core; light, textures, contrast, tonality, mood and raw emotion.”
~Deanne Fitzmaurice
For some, black and white is seen as photography in its purest form.
For me, I love it for its soulfulness. It’s shades of grey.
And the way that:
1. Colour No Longer Distracts
A black and white image lets you focus on form, texture, shape and composition.
Stripped of the distraction of colour, the subject of the image is the focus. Given a chance to be seen and appreciated. Raw and honest. Allowing you to see it for what is it.
2. You See Light Differently
Learning to read and play with light is an integral part of photography. And lighting is key to a good black and white photograph.
Without colour, you notice where the light and shadows fall, and it is this contrast that appeals to us.
3. The Details Tell a Story
Black and white photographs have a way of emphasizing emotion.
When you take away colour, your attention is called to the things you normally overlook. The subtle details become more evident, giving the photo a quiet, intimate feel.
“When you photograph people in color, you photograph their clothes. But when you photograph people in black and white, you photograph their souls!”
~ Ted Grant
4. Timelessness
Black and white photos seem to transcend time and take you back to a bygone era. The removal of colour makes it difficult to figure out when the image was taken.
5. Versatility
I love that it’s a format that suits almost any type of photography. From portraits and landscapes, to architecture and my favourite moody, low light photography, it adapts well to all lighting situations.
6. Highlights Shape, Form and Pattern In The Image
When you remove colour, the focus shifts to the shapes, forms and patterns in the image – the ‘bones’ of the photograph.
Line, shape, texture, contrast and tone – all tied to light and shadow, or the shades of grey in the photo.
are you a fan of black and white photography?
What is it that draws you to it? I’d love to know!
Tasha xo
