Black & White Photo Tips

Copyright Karen Schaler All Rights Reserved 

When you’re visiting interesting TRAVEL THERAPY destinations don’t forget about the option of taking black and white photos because the story these pictures can tell is powerful. There’s a classic, timeless feel with black and white photography and now with digital cameras all you need to get an award winning shot is to follow a few simple tips. 

BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS    

1. Take the photo in color and then convert  

I’ve talked to a lot of professional photographers and they all say the first rule, that many people break, is to take your photograph in color and then convert to black and white when you’re editing the photo. This is recommended for the average photographer because it gives you the option of having the photo either in color or black and white. Some cameras have a b/w setting you can set so if you don’t have editing software that’s another option.

2. Get editing software to help convert to B/W 

Probably the easiest thing for a beginning to do is to get a basic program like Photoshop Elements 6 ($99) where all you have to do is bring up your color picture then click on a link to make it black and white. Photoshop, that you can often find on sale, also gives you the ability to quickly and easily adjust the contrast and brightness as well as dozens of other more advanced options for professionals. 

3. The key to great photos is looking for contrast and texture

What this means is looking for photos where you have striking dark and light images. Like the child in the photo who is wearing a white hat. This contrast makes a picture “pop” and gives you the dramatic effect you’re looking for. Also look for texture or unique patterns because they will really stand out in B/W photography. 

4. Try and capture emotion  

This means stay away from photos where you have everyone posing and saying “cheese” you want to look for spontaneous moments where you capture genuine emotion and feeling. There are times that someone looking right into the camera can be genuine but usually it only happens when you are using a zoom lens so you don’t have the camera right in their face. You want “feel” something when you look at a photo so look for emotional moments and snap away. 

5. Using Filters 

If you want to get creative with your photos a simple way is to add a filter when taking black and white photography.

·        Red- adds drama and contrast, don’t use in low light

·        Yellow-best used for landscapes to increase contrast

·        Ultraviolet- great filter to absorb UV light and protect your lens  

6. Photography Lighting Tips 

For black and white photography try and have your light hit your subject from an angle because straight on lighting can make your shot dull and flat. In black and white photography shadows are your friend as long as you capture the shadows at the right angle.

Copyright Karen Schaler All Rights Reserved

The bottom line is don’t be afraid to try something new. Play around with your photographs and invest in a simple editing program like Photoshop and see what you can come up with.

For some inspiring TRAVEL THERAPY destinations where you would want to try black and white photography check out the TRAVEL THERAPY WEBSITE!    

* Photographs taken in Malawi, Africa.