ViewBug member Richard J Hamilton shares 3 tips on how to improve your Black and White Photos plus the story behind his "Stormy Calm" award winning shot:
"I’m always thinking about perspective. I walked about 100 yards along the fence line looking for the best perspective I could reach" Richard
1. Know colors and tones and how they translate to B&W.
2. Make sure to create separation between the subject and the background. Animals are great at blending into their environment and while it is impressive it doesn’t make for a good photo.
3. B&W images have a certain mood. Look to shoot animals that are displaying emotion verses just existing in the frame.
- Learn the tricks behind his award winning image -
- Framing -
What are you trying to capture/say?
What I was trying to capture with the photo is tension. The clouds, wind and the posture of the horses add to the tension. What I was trying to say is even in tense situations calming support and comfort can be found in a companion.
How do you know if it’s visually interesting?
It’s visually interesting if it is something you have not seen before and it draws you in to the experience. Of course I have seen horses before but it was the emotion and connection between two horses that I had never seen before.
Are you thinking about perspective?
I’m always thinking about perspective. I walked about 100 yards along the fence line looking for the best perspective I could reach. Then the horses would move and I had to start all over.
- Lighting -
Are you using a tripod?
I did not use a tripod for this shot. I drove up on the scene and didn’t think I had time to get the tripod out and set up. I usually have a monopod that I use to be more mobile, but I don’t hesitate to just grab the camera and run.
Are you using a flash?
There was no flash or artificial light used in the photo.
What time of the day was it shot?
This was shot in the mid-afternoon.
What aperture settings are you using?
f/5.6
- Subject -
Are you looking for a unique subject?
I was looking for a subject doing something unique.
Was the photo planned?
It was not a planned photo. It was a spontaneous shot. I just happened to be in the right place at the right time.
How are you choosing to stay close or far from the subject?
I could only get as close as the fence would allow me; however, in this situation I would not have moved much closer. I didn’t want my presence to change the reaction of the horses.
What is your mindset when it comes to POV?
From a technical stand point, the direction a photographer points the camera is the POV for that shot. From a theoretical approach, a photographer can manipulate perspectives to reflect more of what they imagine. Either way you think about it, the POV is what the photographer wants it to be.
- Composition -
Are you thinking of rule of thirds/how?
I’m always thinking of the rule of thirds and I usually apply the rule. However, it is just a rule and it can be broken. When breaking the rule I do so with intention and with specific purpose.
Are you thinking of symmetry?
I think of symmetry as a tool to focus attention.
Are you paying attention on the subject only or also background and why?
I was also paying attention to the background because it set the mood and created the situation. Without it the impact of the action the images is less interesting.
Are you thinking of the angle? why did you choose this angle?
I moved around looking for the right position to tell the story. The angle for this photo showed the most tension and emotion.
How did you choose B&W vs color?
B&W conveyed more tension and emotion with better contrast.
Did you do any post-processing? if so, what?
The post-processing included the usually clean up, increase in contrast levels and selective sharpening.
