All Challenges January 15, 2024 - January 21, 2024

Week 3: Black And White!

Extra Challenge: Shoot With Film
Photo Credit: Manuel Feliz - Week 7: Chair (2023)

BASIC FACTS: The Black and White challenge requires a photo taken by you during the week of the challenge that is processed to be Black and White.

Let's go with the classic look and try our hand at Black And White photography, this week.

It's all about capturing life's moments in shades of grayscale magic. You might wonder, what's the big deal with black and white pics? Well, it's like stripping down to the bare essentials, where contrast, textures, and emotions take center stage.

Now, what makes a bang-on black and white photo? First things first, contrast is your BFF! Seek out those extremes, from the darkest shadows to the brightest highlights—they’re like the yin and yang in your shot. Texture is another superhero here. Think rough surfaces, crinkled fabrics, or even the lines on someone's face; they pop in monochrome. Oh, and let's not forget about shapes and forms! Play with silhouettes, curves, and patterns, because they become the VIPs in your grayscale party.

When diving into the world of black and white photography, keep your eyes peeled for moments that scream drama or emotion. A candid laugh, a pensive stare, or a rain-soaked street can transform into a timeless masterpiece. Pro tip: lighting is your secret sauce! Play with it—soft light creates subtle tones, while harsh light casts striking shadows. Also, think about your composition. Simplify, simplify, simplify! Less clutter means more focus on what truly matters.

Remember, folks, the world of black and white photography is like an old-school movie—it’s timeless, it’s moody, and it's full of character. So, grab your camera or phone, scout your surroundings, and unleash your inner monochrome maestro. Who knows? You might just capture that moment that speaks volumes without saying a word!

Posting to Socials? Our hashtag of the week is #52Frames_blackandwhite

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Tips and Tutorials

TIPS:

  • Embrace Contrast: Seek extremes in light and dark for impactful shots.
  • Texture is King: Look for surfaces and details that pop in monochrome.
  • Focus on Shapes and Forms: Silhouettes and patterns add visual interest.
  • Capture Emotion and Drama: Candid moments and atmospheric scenes shine.
  • Master Lighting: Experiment with different types for varied tones and moods.
  • Simplify Composition: Less clutter means more focus on the essential elements.

TUTS:

Capture the world in monochrome with these creative and technical tips.

Awe inspiring photos from the 2022 Black and White Photo Awards and more great examples.

The importance of contrast and tone in black and white photography.

Tips for editing black and white photos.

? Converting photos to black and white using snapseed and Lightroom mobile ?

 

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our previous albums Black and White (2023), and Black and White (2022). And as always, The Googles! Oh you sweet Googles.

Extra Challenge: Shoot With Film

Think the Main Challenge alone ain't worthy enough of your photog skillz? Sweet - try adding the EXTRA challenge along with the Main Challenge to showcase your abilities.

This week, we'd like to see you Shoot With Film some amazing Black And White photos. Not a filmic look, actual old school photo film.

Do remember, the EC is neither mandatory nor does it enhance your odds of being picked for any 52F honors. It's just an EXTRA challenge for you, if that's something you want to take on in addition to the Main Challenge. We intentionally design the Extra Challenge to be difficult for most, so only take this on if you are looking for an EXTRA challenge. Get it? It's extra. ?

Photo Credit: Niels Taatgen - Week 44: Inspired by a Photographer (2023)

Remember, you are only submitting ONE photo per week. It is not necessary (and sometimes not possible) to work in this Extra Challenge into your submission. It’s extra challenge!

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