When it comes to taking great photographs, there has always been much debate. Some have claimed that to truly capture emotion the photograph must be in black and white. Others argue that vivid colours evoke and stir emotions in a different way. But is there always a rule? Is it always so black and white?
UP FOR DEBATE: YES THEY SHOULD BE BLACK AND WHITE
- when shooting portraits can you capture emotions better in black and white
- the contrast is more defined and crisp, therefore creating more definition and interest
- you focus more on the photograph itself then the colours
FOR: “When you photograph people in colour, you photograph their clothes. But when you photograph people in black and white, you photograph their souls!” – Ted Grant
AGAINST: You only have to glimpse at Steve McCurry’s photographs to change your mind
Moments before I took the photograph, this farmer was working his field, separating the chaff from the wheat. The detail in the strands of the fabric in his turban and the similar pattern in his vest caught my eye. The red jewel in his gold ring becomes a delicate focal point. #photooftheday #Pakistan #Balochistan #ruby #mustache @magnumphotos A photo posted by Steve McCurry (@stevemccurryofficial) on
UP FOR DEBATE: NO THEY SHOULD BE IN COLOUR
- it captures the true moment and is more realistic
- landscapes and moments can defined purely in colour, such as a sunset
- fashion and food photography rely on colour
FOR: We are drawn to the magical elements of a photo, which is the parallel between the real world and the world in our imaginations and the only way to make the connection is with some form of realism. This can only be created through colour.
AGAINST: You only have to look at the works of Sally Mann and Chris Killip to see the power of black and white documentary photographs. Follow us on Pinterest to see our photography boards and judge for yourself.