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Is It Shutters for Black and White Photography? |  |
by Sarah Christensen
sarah.christensen@hqpublications.com
Design Programs Columnist
Black and white photography will always inspire photographers, amateur and professional alike - from the photography school-educated to the career photographers with no education.
Of course, black and white used to be the only photographic medium. Man Ray's "Tears" and more conceptual "'Cello" would be far less stimulating embellished with human skin tones.
Stunning architecture on a dull overcast day can look uninteresting and tedious; in black and white, attention focuses on shape, texture, and stonework. Ansel Adams' landscapes and cityscapes use this technique to dramatic effect. Edward Weston specializes in nudes, but his pictures will often elicit a double take; abstract articles are used to suggest the naked human form.
More is Less
The juxtaposition of producing more captivating images through not using color is an intriguing concept in itself. Many believe that black and white photography transforms images from the everyday and mundane into the abstract.
Black and white photography removes the "background noise" and directs the viewer to the focus of importance. By removing color from an image, details are shown as strong contrasts; and concepts become clearer.
Black and White - Head and Shoulders Above the Rest
Skin tones and blemishes are greatly reduced with black and white photography. Facial features look more even, perfect, and attractive. By throwing an image into the abstract and maybe adding a little soft focus, portraits can take on a "romantic" feel. This is one of the main reasons that wedding photographs in black and white are still favored over color.
Official portraiture often uses black and white photography for the same reasons. Subjects look more '"perfect" and match the human ideal more closely than in color. There are excellent psychological and evolutionary reasons for favoring healthy and fit looking leaders and partners.
Focus on a New Career
Whether you are interested in learning more about figure study, wedding photography, or abstracts, a black and white photography program could be the start of a fascinating new career. Design Programs offers you a full directory of photography schools, sure to fit your study focus - black and white photography is not a dead art, and courses at these schools will teach you how to best reach your full potential as a photographer.
About the Author
Sarah Christensen is the Managing Director of QSL, a retail internet business. She has worked for various international Biotechnology and surgical implant companies including 3M. After many years of corporate sales and marketing she devoted her time to business development specializing in small start-ups and e-commerce. Sarah graduated from King's College, University of London, with a degree in Chemistry and Business Studies.
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