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5 Reasons to Shoot in Black and White

black and white photo of woman sitting on a bench

Did you know that Ansel Adams is one of the most well-known black and white photographers of all time? There’s just something about his black-and-white photographs that captures the mood and aesthetics in a way that color photographs never can. 

We have laid out some solid features below if you aren’t familiar with the undeniable charm of using black and white photography. Keep reading to learn more about this.

1. Black and White Photographs Add Timelessness

If you want to take good photos that will stand the test of time, then black and white photography is a great way to do that.

There’s just something about black and white photos that makes it feel like you’ve entered a different space and time, something from days gone by. You will always be able to capture your audience’s attention using black and white photographs.black and white photograph of random people waiting to cross a astreet

2. Make Your Photographs More Dramatic

Black and white photography makes your photographs seem oh-so-dramatic. If you want to add a certain somber or dramatic mood to your photographs, even if they are of the most ordinary things, then taking them in black and white is the ideal way to do it.

Just because color photography has become ubiquitous, that doesn’t mean that you need to focus on it entirely. Moving back and forth between the two will give you a greater insight into learning various photography settings and becoming more of a professional.

3. It Teaches You To Look at the World Differently

When you take a lot of black and white photographs, it helps you to look at the world in a completely different manner.

For example, if you are taking a photograph of a rainbow, it will seem fine in a color photograph. But in a black and white photograph, it will be completely invisible.

abuilding in black and white
Black and white forces the photographer to look at other aspects of the image such as form and lines

Black and white photography forces the photographer to concentrate on other aspects of the image such as form and lines.[/caption]

4. Contrast Appeals at a Deeper Psychological Level

You could be taking a photograph of something completely inane, like a faucet or a cup of tea, but with black and white photography, it becomes a work of art.

Somehow, the contrasting and simplified colors of black and white appeal at such a deeper level. You can’t explain it, but it’s there. 

5. More Creativity Required When Taking Black and White Images

As you can imagine, when you don’t have color to back you up, you will have to become more creative to capture awesome photos.

Even if you are just beginning with photographs, this doesn’t mean that you need to stay away from black and white photography. It will just require a bit more time and effort to become better at it. 

Learn Photography for Beginners With Us

Have we convinced you yet of the beauty of black and white photography? Check out our blog if you want to build your skills using photography tips. We have tips for both amateurs and professionals, so there’s something for everyone.

Photography isn’t a skill you are born with. It’s something you learn over time with practice. Let us help you on that journey.

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