Have you ever wondered why you would want to learn black and white photography tips in a world of color? In spite of the incredible popularity of digital color photography, there will always be room for black and white photography.

The elegance and timelessness of black and white photography insures its continual popularity. The fact is that more and more people are becoming interested in black and white photography for many reasons…

When used correctly, black and white pictures:

• Transforms a dingy or overcast look into a striking photo evoking emotion
• Heighten the emotional impact
• Accentuate the depth of the photograph
• Have a tendency to make photos look more like works of art
• Produce a clean, crisp look

Emotional Scenes

Very powerful, emotional, or moving photographs often look better as black and white images than in color. For example, here is a candid taken at the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. from 100 feet away.

Like most digital photographs, this one was first viewed as a color image. However, the emotional impact was not evident. By processing the same exact photo in black and white, the desired effect was achieved.

Keep in mind that when you have a highly emotional or poignant subject, try to also view it in black and white.

Relationship Portraits

Probably the most popular application for black and white pictures is with a single subject. Here is a photographic paradox: On the one hand, “Photography” per say, has very few absolute rules.

For example, there is not a specific “category” of pictures that looks better in black and white. However, black and white pictures of babies and children often look quite inspirational.

Although there is a “formal/big occasion” aura surrounding black and white photography, there’s no reason to ignore it when taking everyday pictures. If you are unsure, take the picture in color AND black and white; then you be the judge.

Everyday Magic!

As the commercial says – Never leave home without it. Why? Because you never know what or where photo opportunities will exist. (It’s that photographic Murphy’s Law thing.) In fact, sometimes you won’t even realize that a photograph is really good until after you download it and start to play with the photograph.

Here’s an example of how to transform and crop an average color photograph into a powerful black and white image.

By cropping most photos, you can more precisely determine where your viewer’s focus will go. That may not be as important when taking portraits of single subjects; however, it’s true power can be seen in group photographs and landscapes.

Even though cropping can produce magical results, you need the right “rabbit” for everything to all come together. Unfortunately, there is one potential pitfall with cropping. Read about that pitfall here, as well as how to use a photographic technique that guarantees your cropped images will turn out perfectly.

Cameras are available in two broad types: conventional film and digital. The conventional are regarded as the traditional while the digital are viewed as more high-tech.

Following are some tips that could help you to decide the best conventional or digital camera for your intended usage.

First, it will matter whether you are buying a camera and photography equipment to be used for a hobby or as part of a professional endeavor.

Professional photographers use single lens reflex (SLR) cameras. If you are considering photography as a profession, then this is the type of camera you will want to invest in. SLR allows you to adjust the lenses as contrasted against the normal point-and-shoot cameras.

You can control the opening of the lens and the shutter speed. Though it may be more difficult to operate, pictures taken with SLRs have higher quality and provide more gratifying results. They allow more space and opportunity for the best composition. Simply stated, compared to a point-and-shoot camera, SLR can do much more.

If you are able to consult with experienced photographers or purchase photo and camera magazines, get some product reviews. You can also do some research on your own through the Internet, paying particular attention to how users rate specific SLR cameras.

What is Your Budget?

SLR cameras are more expensive than point-and-shoot. Some low priced cameras have built-in aperture settings. They are also operated manually. On the other hand, there are models that offer better features, have timers, measure flash and provide automatic shutter and aperture speed options.

Making That Decision

Before visiting a store and walking out with a new camera, be sure that you have already decided in advance which features you like and will fit your budget.

When you arrive, spend some time with a knowledgeable worker to ensure you see and talk about the cameras that satisfy your specifications. Do not purchase one immediately; rather hold it and try it yourself. Adjust the lenses and familiarize yourself with the controls.

There are also digital SLR cameras that will compete for your attention. If one of those piques your interest, consider the same specifications you already have in mind, but definitely weight the cost. A digital SLR is pricey.

In fact, always keep your budget in mind while shopping for a camera. If what you really want is too steep, consider buying a refurbished camera, or check out options on eBay.

Your Current Experience

Your skill level may not yet be suited for SLR, but with a little photography training, your determination to learn could well lead to gradually using a more complicated camera. In the meantime, a point-and-shoot camera may still be your best option and provide you some rich picture-taking opportunities.

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