Black and white photographs can be so powerful. Something about removing color from our world allows us to focus on the essence of an image, which really pulls at our emotions. Though I love photographing on black and white film, I find that I often envision certain digital images in black and white, and then convert them while editing. One of my favorite images I’ve ever made was converted to black and white in post processing, which allows the viewer to focus on the details of the image, from the texture of his skin to the highlight in his eye:
Stanley, 2012.
Sometimes digital photographers can feel stuck while photographing on black and white film because it’s not possible to switch back to color. (I know I’ve felt that way before!) Photographing on film helps me slow down to really perfect an image before firing the shutter, and I’ve found that photographing on black and white film helps me focus even more. I don’t have the opportunity to photograph the world as I see it, but rather must evaluate the scene and consider how the resulting image will read in monochromatic tones.
When photographing this session with Jordan, I was exploring film photography for portraits and had packed my medium format camera and some black and white film to try it out. When I got the scans back from the lab, I was really disappointed because I loved my color (digital) images so much more. Now, looking back, I think I prefer these black and white images. ;)
Here are a few more recent images that I converted to black and white from color digital files. These are from a lifestyle newborn session from last month.
This post is part of a ladies’ blog circle showcasing our favorite images in black and white! Be sure to check out the next link in the circle: Black and White Fantasy by Kristy G. Photography!
xoxo, Lauren
Are you looking for a film photographer for your upcoming portrait, wedding or anniversary session? Email Lauren at [email protected] or use the contact link on the top of this page to get in touch with San Diego Wedding Photographer Lauren Nygard! Lauren is based in Southern California but loves traveling with her camera to capture love across the globe!
San Diego Film Photographer | Lauren Nygard Photography
https://laurennygard.com
Love every single one. And I wish I had a photo of my grandfather like that! So much talent :)
Gahhh! Those film images are amazing. They are all great but those horse shots are wowzers!
soo perfect! those film shots are stunning and i love how shooting b&w film pulls you creatively a few different ways!