5 Tips for Better Black and White Photos
The other day, I was flipping through an old family album and came across a monochromatic photo of my grandparents on their wedding day. The timeless elegance of that image took my breath away. It got me thinking, why not try capturing some of that classic charm with our smartphones? So, I dove into the world of black and white photography to learn how to master the look. I'm excited to share my top 5 tips for better black and white photos right from your phone!
1. Seek Out Natural Light
Lighting is key in photography, and it's especially crucial for black and white shots. Natural light can add depth and contrast to your images. Try shooting during the golden hours, early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and flattering. If you're indoors, position your subject near a window to take advantage of the available light.
2. Focus on Textures and Patterns
Without color, textures and patterns become the stars of your photos. Look for interesting surfaces like a cozy knitted blanket, the rough bark of a tree, or the intricate details of a lace curtain. These elements can add a rich, tactile quality to your black and white images.
3. Shoot in Color, Convert to Black and White Later
It might surprise you, but capturing your photos in color and then converting them to black and white during editing gives you more control over the final image. This method allows you to adjust the tones and contrasts to achieve the perfect monochrome effect.
4. Use Editing Apps to Enhance Your Photos
There are several user-friendly apps that can help you fine-tune your black and white photos. We listed our favorite 5 photo editing apps, here on the blog! They offer a range of tools to adjust brightness, contrast, and structure, allowing you to create striking monochrome images. Some even have preset black and white filters you can “try on” your image to see which is the best fit!
5. Print with a High-Quality Service
Once you've captured and edited your masterpiece, it's time to bring it to life. For high-quality, archival prints with true blacks and whites, use a reputable and real photo printing service like the Persnickety Box app. We use real film chemistry to process your digital images, ensuring your prints are vibrant and long-lasting. Plus, the eco-friendly keepsake story boxes are a lovely way to store and share your memories. NOTHING compares the the quality and value of Persnickety Box prints. Try it out and see for yourself! Download the Persnickety Box app, use code prints for 50% off your first box!