We say that somebody sees the world in black and white when they seem to be lacking nuance and attention to detail and specificity.
But there’s a whole world of shades between black and white. A spectrum of nuances and possibilities. And often it’s precisely because we restrict ourselves to black and white that we can better express visually what is unique, interesting, or unusual about our subject.
It’s a creative freedom that is found precisely by working with constraints.
Texture becomes palpable, almost rough to the touch. Shapes get into focus and impose themselves in the field of vision. Light becomes a subtle presence, undulating across space and objects, interacting with them.
There are photographers who work mostly or exclusively in color, and there are those who work in black and white. It’s their visual language and they make a commitment to using that language consistently.
I am working mostly in color but I appreciate both languages and, if I can stretch the metaphor, I would like to be fluent in both.
For me, the act of choosing to work in color or in black and white is a pragmatic choice that depends on the topic and the way I want to approach it rather than on some pre-defined notion of what language is better than the other.
It’s all about light and darkness…loved your choices. Loved the mass effects. The cat is so good.
Thanks for the kind words and for visiting! 🙂
Well Florin clearly you’ve mastered the art of B&W, as well as the ability to shine in difficult lighting. Superb images this week.
Thank you Tina, this is heart-warming!
Great photos. LOVE that tiger in the grass, and the thawing.
thank you!
Oh my Florin, this post is amazing in narrative and images. I think my favorite has to be the cat, but they are all wonderful. Well done!
I’m happy you like them. Some compositions seem to be made for b/w, others lend themselves to b/w, while others need color to shine and tell their story. Thank you.
Personally, this might be one of my favourite posts for the week. There wasn’t a photo that I didn’t find breathtaking and inspiring. It started with your cat and it was up, up all the way after that. Thank you.
Thanks so much, Sofia! This brightens my day.
Perfectly penned with photos to match. Love the cat that seems to be looking to you for your story, that you always tell so eloquently. Love that you brought light to the challenge literally in through your images. Always a pleasure.
Grateful for your visit and reaction on the post! 🙂
“I see the act of choosing to work in color or in black and white as a pragmatic choice that depends on the topic and the way I want to approach it rather than on some pre-defined notion of what language is better than the other.” I fully agree! Lost of time has been wasted arguing color versus black and white. You did a good job with your photographs.
Stunning photos!