Falling for Black & White

One of my favorite photographers, Jeff Damron, recently posted an excellent commentary about capturing fall colors in black and white. In it, he writes “Fall can be a time of conflict for a black and white photographer.  The very definition of autumn seems to be the vibrantly warm reds and yellows of the foliage.  The temptation, at least for me, is very strong to capture the colors.  In fact, I inevitably do just that…”.

I was immediately struck by the “conflict” observation, and he is absolutely correct. Any other time of year, I alternate my picture taking between color and black and white – depending on the project. But when fall reaches New England, I’m suddenly stuck in a mode of shooting color.

Well, that was last fall. This is now. Thanks to Jeff, I’ve been forcing myself to think not in terms of crimsons and golds, but in shades of gray. It’s not easy, but that’s what I love about photography. Sometimes the greatest challenges are the most obvious.

I’m definitely falling for black & white  …again.

Comments

[Stefanie]

Oh wow, Adrian. That is an amazing shot! Can't stop looking at it.

[Adrian Scholes]

Thanks Stef. Much appreciated :)

[Jeff Damron]

Thank you for the very kind words, Adrian! And this is an excellent picture - beautiful tonality and great composition.

[Adrian Scholes]

Thanks Jeff, and you are welcome.