It is often believed that good photos are those with beautiful colors. However, there are other forms of photography such as black and white, monochrome, infrared, etc. There is much more than just bright colors in images. Photography is the recording of light regardless of color and the result. Black and white has been popular since the early days when cameras only took these images and couldn’t interpret the colors.

Black and white photography can be a difficult task because the subject is the most important in these photos. With practice, you can get used to understanding the lighting, the subject, and how you want to compose your final image. It’s more like a mind game where you have to imagine your subject in black and white before taking the picture. Below we’ll explain some common techniques to help you improve your interpretation of the situation for a great shot.

It is necessary to understand the incidence and direction of light. Pay close attention to how the light hits the subject and reflects off the details, the ups and downs, and the curvature on the subject’s surface. Below are some basic considerations for black and white photography.

point of view

The most important consideration is point of view. Before you even touch the camera, you want to know what you want to photograph and how you want to present it. You’ll also want to give some thought to the angles you might want to shoot from.

amount of light

You need to make sure you have enough light to capture the details. Remember that we do not have colors to distinguish and make details. We have to let the light do the trick. A beautiful blue sky will look gray in a black and white photo.

Light source

Understanding the light source is important because different sources need to be photographed differently and with different settings. Ask yourself where the light comes from. Is it coming from a primary light source like the sun or an artificial glare? Is the light coming from a reflected source, such as a wall or a reflector?

light quality

First think about the types of shadows and contrasts you want. Direct light produces sharp, dark shadows. Diffused or indirect light produces softer tones. For dark shadows and a large contrast difference between light and dark, use direct light. On the other hand, for gray tones and softer looks, use a diffused light.

light direction

Decide the type of depth, dimensions and details you want in your photo. The side lights give greater dimensions. The direct light that falls from the front highlights the texture and depth. Taillights help reduce detail. Position the lights according to your wish.

shape

Since you don’t have colors, you have to decide how you want to render the shape. The shape is represented by blocks of light and dark areas in the photo.

tone

You build your tone through your photography. For example, dark tones use strong shadows to represent a sad or empty mood. However, the light and soft textures convey open and free sensations.

Texture

The texture on the surface of the subject can define the realism of the photo, while the soft or blurred details produce mythical or ideal images.

Lines

Lines can be used to draw attention to a certain point in a photo. They provide a focus of attention. Lines are also used to convey movement and tension.

Order

Like music photography it can be about rhythm. Repeated lines and shapes produce patterns and give a rhythmic sense to the image.

Black and white photography is not as complicated as it may seem at first. All you have to do is learn to play with light. Now get out there and start framing some great shots and express your mind and thought.