05/16/2026
I have built my photography career on taking images that are timeless and classic, so it is natural that black and white appeals to my aesthetic. But I also love color, and lots of it! In fact, the more bold and vibrant it is, the better! So how do I decide if an image should be delivered in black and white or color? First I take a look at the lighting. If it is a sunny day with lots of variation in contrast (lights and darks) that is a sign that black and white could potentially be the right choice. If I want to remove color as it has distracting effect on the subject, then I will lean towards a black and white image. And lastly, if I want to create a dramatic mood that lends itself to the intent of the image, then I will definitely choose black and white.
Black and white, when done correctly, refines an image to its' core elements. This way the viewer's mind can focus on basic composition, texture, light, shadow, shape and form. Some images absolutely NEED to be in black and white. It allows the viewer to focus more directly on the subject of the image and it is inherently a timeless and classic presentation of an image.
Although I sometimes deliver a few client images in both black and white and color, I am moving away from that because I would much rather choose to deliver the images that MUST to be in black and white, rather than dilute their impact with a companion color image.
I now prefer to choose the images that literally SING when you see them in black and white. For Maverick's session, these are the ones!
As I mentioned above, I absolutely love color, but I also love black and white and recognize that some images have to be one or the other, but not usually do these images need to be presented as both.
What do you think about black and white? Is it something that you gravitate to? Or do you prefer all color images? I would love to hear your take, comment below!
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