So I’ve been processing some pics lately from a recent trip to Colorado and am finding I prefer many of them in BW (Black & White). However–I wasn’t necessarily seeing the image in black and white when I made the photograph.
Shooting BW is very different than color. Instead of greens, yellows, reds and blues, one sees grey, black, white, middle gray, off-white, etc. It’s all about tones. I’m finding the more I process images in BW, the better I’m able to “see” in BW when I’m out shooting. Try taking some of your favorite color images and processing them for BW–I think you’ll be suprised how much you like the BW version as well. Don’t be afraid to get creative with dodging and burning-you’re goal is to represent what you saw through the lens. When converting to BW, you most often lose a great deal of contrast in the image. Much of it can be brought back with a quick levels and curves adjustment, but search the image further for subtle nuances that would benefit from a slight darkening or lightening. Storm clouds are perfect examples. Also–be aware of any elements in the scene that may be distracting to the viewer. Perhaps you’ve got hot spots that pull the viewer’s eye from the main subject (or point of interest)–with some local dodging and burning, you’ll be amazed how balanced and “perfect” you can make that perfect scene you saw throught the lens.
I agree. Some things definitely look better in black and white. With Digital it’s nice to have the choice of going to Black and White, most people don’t make that choice though.