Digital photographers have the luxury of choosing whether an image should be in color or monochrome after the image is taken. But what makes great black and white photography? We asked five photographers responsible for some stunning black and white wedding and portrait photos how they make the decision to edit in monochrome. This week, find inspiration from Chrissy Marsman, Barbara Duchalska, Marzena Bobruk, Giannis Kritikos, and Francisco Álvarez.
Chrissy Marsman, Chrystin Melanie Photography
When this couple asked for candid wedding party photographs, Chrissy Marsman of Chrystin Melanie Photography delivered with this black and white shot. The photographer explained that she asked the wedding party, “What if we pick someone up for the next shot?” When the wedding party grabbed the couple, Marsman captured the moment as the two kissed in the arms of their friends. She used the Canon R6 and the Canon EF 16-35mm lens for this image.
“The wedding party colors were already neutral tones. The groom had a black tux, and it just felt right to switch it to black and white,” Marsman explains. “The image popped so well when I turned it into black and white. You could just feel the moment. In a great black and white image, I look for strong contrasts, the play of light and shadow, and the emotions conveyed. These elements become more pronounced and impactful without the distraction of color.”
Barbara Duchalska, Barbara Duchalska Photography
For Barbara Duchalska of Barbara Duchalska Photography, the Goetz Palace in Brzesko, Poland, was a location she’s dreamed of photographing for years. When she finally had the opportunity, she planned to leave most of the shots in color to show off the deep greens and dark woodwork, but the dark background in this shot makes the couple and the bride’s veil pop. She captured the photo with the Canon 5D Mark IV and a Sigma 35mm f1.4 Art lens.
“Initially, I was planning to take the majority of the photos in color,” she says, “because I love the mix of green shades in the vintage wallpaper and deep dark brown woodwork. But in the end, I couldn’t resist and took a lot of black and whites to 1) emphasize the classic and timeless atmosphere a little bit more, 2) to focus viewer’s eyes on the couple’s gestures and silhouettes, and 3) to bring out contrast between the light and shadows which were surrounding the couple. I always use black and white editing on my favorite photos from every wedding season. I notice that I cherish black and white ones the most.”
Marzena Bobruk, Venti Photography
Marzena Bobruk of Venti Photography whisked the newlyweds away for a few intimate shots with the idea of capturing something reminiscent of classic New York City films. The lighting in the hallway highlights the movement of the bride’s dress, while the black and white and the inability to see the bride’s face adds a sense of mystery to the image. While Bobruk says she typically uses her full-frame camera, for this shot, she wanted a look closer to analog and so she reached for her Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II and the Panasonic Lumix G 25mm f1.7 lens.
“My passion for black and white photography lies in uncovering the soul of the moment,” she says. “Each image should come alive and allow the viewer to feel the emotions present at that time. Black and white enhances the elegance and emotional depth of every story. For me, a great black and white image must possess a strong contrast that highlights the subject, evokes emotions, and creates a timeless feel. It strips away distractions and focuses on the core elements — light, shadow, texture, and emotion. This approach brings out the raw beauty and genuine essence of the scene, making each photograph a piece of art.”
Giannis Kritikos
Inspired by the rock structure and lighting, Giannis Kritikos captured this dramatic frame within a frame shot. The photographer explains that he’s always vigilant about looking for interesting locations during a shoot. He captured the shot with the Nikon Z6 and Nikkor Z 40mm f2 lens.
“I considered that editing the photo in black and white would eliminate distractions from other elements in the frame, allowing the silhouettes to stand out,” Kritikos says. “In my view, a striking black and white photograph requires solid framing, ample contrast, and shadows. However, without emotion and intent, even a photo with all these elements won’t be compelling.”
Francisco Álvarez, Francisco Álvarez Photography
Francisco Álvarez of Francisco Álvarez Photography considers this photo the “end credits” of a surprise marriage proposal he photographed. The photographer explains that the couple are transplanted New Yorkers, and he wanted to capture the city as part of the story. He decided to focus on the Freedom Tower rather than the couple in order to let their favorite city take the leading role in the shot. He got the shot with the Canon R6 Mark II and the RF 50mm f1.2 lens.
“I wholeheartedly believe black and white photography should be used with great intent and purpose,” he says. “Black and white is naturally nostalgic, and it adds a flare of drama to an image when applied correctly. In this instance, I chose to use this traditional perspective as a way to enhance the storytelling process. A black and white image must speak to me; it should always tell me part of the story that’s transpiring and make me feel as if I was a character throughout the process. Black and white images have to capture a pinnacle moment throughout a photoshoot and convey a timeless emotion we all strive to showcase. Having Alysha say, ‘Yes’ to the ring, I figured it would be a great way to add an exclamation point to our private event.”
Dig into our Photos of the Day Archives for even more timeless photos, eye-catching portraits and wedding photos. Submit your wedding, editorial, documentary and other interesting imagery (up to five images at a time) to: hillary.grigonis@emeraldx.com.
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