Finding the Best Subjects for Blacks and White Photography
Because not all subjects “translate” well into black and white, we’ll explore finding the best subjects for black and white photography here.
Some images need the vibrancy of color; or perhaps the color IS the image. Some images have the wrong tones to convert well into black and white photos. (Be sure to read my article about the best colors for black and white photography and black and white tonality here.)
Other images can work in both color or black and white. For example this image of a mobile of 1001 origami cranes has a completely different feel in black and white. It becomes more of an abstract composition, rather than a study in shape and colour.
So then, what subjects DO make better black and white photos?
1) Image with strong patterns
2) Images with shadows
3) Images with lots of textures
4) Images with bold shapes, and angles
5) Images where the light is less than perfect (mid day, harsh lighting, flat lighting, spot lights, high contrast lighting etc.)
Try shooting your own images with some of the subjects from this list, do a before and after. Which has more impact? The color photos or the black and white?
Do you want an easy way to see if your image will look good in black and white? Read this article on Camera Tricks for Black and White Photography.