Black-and-White (B&W) Photography Guide

Essential Camera Settings

Shoot RAW (Best Practice):

• Why? Full control in post. More dynamic range.

• Tip: Set your camera preview to monochrome so you can see B&W in live view or playback while still capturing full-color RAW.

Key Settings:

• ISO: Lowest native ISO for fine grain (100–200).

• Aperture: Control depth—f/5.6–f/11 for landscapes; wide open for portraits.

• Shutter Speed: Adjust for motion blur or sharpness.

• White Balance: Doesn’t matter for RAW, but set to “Daylight” for consistent previews.

Visualizing in Black & White

What Looks Great in B&W?

• Strong Contrast: Light vs dark = drama.

• Defined Shapes & Lines: Geometry pops.

• Texture & Detail: Rust, wrinkles, rocks—rich surfaces sing.

• Backlight & Side Light: Emphasize depth, form, mood.

• Flat Light? Look for texture & tonal variation.

Quick Trick: Use your EVF in mono mode—see the light, not the color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Relying on Color to Carry the Image: Ask, “Would this still work in grayscale?”

• Flat Contrast: Push shadows & highlights for depth.

• Poor Subject Separation: Watch for same-tone backgrounds.

• Overprocessing: Keep it punchy, not crunchy.

• Ignoring Light Direction: Light is your sculpting tool.

Best Practices in the Field

• Meter for the Midtones: Especially skin or key subject tones.

• Use Filters Wisely:

  • Red/orange: Darken skies, boost contrast.

  • Green: Better foliage rendering.

• Shoot in Harsh Light: Midday sun = drama in B&W.

• Look Beyond Color: Focus on shape, pattern, and shadow.

• Bracket Exposures in tough lighting for post flexibility.

Post-Processing Tips

• Convert with Intent: Don’t just desaturate—use B&W mix sliders.

• Control Tone Curves: Create contrast where it matters.

• Dodge & Burn: Sculpt light. Draw the eye.

• Balance the Mood: High-key (light & airy) or low-key (dark & moody)? Pick a lane.

• Sharpen Selectively: Eyes, texture—leave backgrounds soft if needed.

Field Checklist

Before You Shoot:

◻️ Set preview to Monochrome (RAW still in color)

◻️ Scan for light direction & contrast

◻️ Ask: “What’s the story without color?”

While Shooting:

◻️ Compose for shape, form, and negative space

◻️ Meter with purpose—watch for highlight blowouts

◻️ Try different angles to enhance texture/light

◻️ Use filters to alter tone relationships

Post-Shoot:

◻️ Convert using B&W tools, not just desaturate

◻️ Fine-tune contrast & tones

◻️ Dodge & burn for emphasis

◻️ Step back—does it feel complete?

Shoot with intention. Think in tone. Light is your language.

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