Black and white photography has the power to bring greater attention to composition in the absence of colors. Shapes, depth, light, contrasts, shapes, and textures are the important elements that influence how a photographer can guide the viewer’s eye through the images. One needs to think in an innovative manner when photographing in black and white. For instance, rather than noticing the vivacious hues of a flower, they should put more emphasis on the texture of the rose petals with dew on them. Going through the works of Bruce Weber Photographer can help people to gain a brief understanding of how textures can be impactful in black and white images. Bruce has been a part of the photography industry for decades, and usually prefers to take photos in black and white.
Bruce Weber Photographer shares general insight on showcasing textures through black and white photography
Textures can look particularly eye-catching in black and white images. Variations in the surface help add drama, variety, and even a degree of storytelling to the composition, in the absence of color. Textures provide tonal variance and can highlight densely concentrated details in certain areas of the frame. Putting a focus on the texture in black and white images can help make the overall photo more compelling. Being able to view the surface details additionally allows the viewer to get a better feel of the subject and location featured in the photo. Textures evoke the tactile sense of the viewer, and add atmosphere and character to the composition. If one manages to portray textures properly through their photos, they will find that people would almost want to touch these images and feel the textures captured.
In certain situations, the photographer may even choose to fill the entire frame with texture and allow the image to be all about its details. Doing so shall turn the photo into more of abstract, artistic creation. It does not matter whether the image is all about texture or just emphasizing texture as part of a larger composition, it ultimately should be visually appealing. Most professionals who are experienced in black and white photography, such as Bruce Weber Photographer, have a good understanding of the ways to showcase textures through their images.
If the photographer desires to enhance a certain texture while shooting, they are likely to get better results by avoiding direct light. When shooting outdoors, it is best to steer clear of the harsh midday sunlight. During this time of the day, light illuminates everything strongly, from above or in front of the subject. This might fill the small cracks and irregularities in surfaces, and create a flattening effect that prevents textures from appearing in a clear manner. Capturing images when the sun is low in the sky, such as during the golden hour, would be the best time to highlight textures through black and white photography. During this time, the subject shall be lit from the side and make tiny shadows appear wherever there is a crack or crevice.
