What Is It About Black and White?

[Iaintliein]

Photography is one of the most controversial subjects here, but this isn't about "pro" whatever that means vs "selfies". By definition a black and white photo doesn't look the same as the subject in the real world; except by moonlight I suppose.

This picture of Dallas Bella has minimal editing done to it, some sharpening and cropping and cloning out a stray piece of string on her outfit I didn't see. But the black and white version just blows me away. I keep hearing the opening monologue of Casablanca when I look at it.

So, color vs B&W, about this image and in general what do you like and why?




". . . but the others wait in Casablanca, and wait. . . and wait. . ."

[oldbutstillgoing]

The lack of color removes what can be visual distractions. B&W, which is really tones of grey for the most part can be more forgiving of minor flaws in the subject. And I think it delivers a softer image of a woman that allows the viewer to interpret the photo in a much broader range.

[Prolongus]

Wondering if anyone has the handle "Selfie"...

In the color pic above, the red dress moves to the foreground. Had it been a cool color, such as green or blue, her skin would be thrust in the foreground. The B&W photo evens it out and the lighting on her face is the focal point vs. the dress.

[Iaintliein]

Both good points gentlemen.

With regards to Prolongus' comment on dress color, that is a very good observation. I used a blue/green filter effect during conversion to simulate old fashioned, orthochromatic film, which, of course muted the reds in the image, giving her a dusky, sultry look and subduing the dress and curtain. I think that's what tips me in favor of the B&W on this one.

Thanks!

[oldbutstillgoing]

Prolongus said it far better than me. The first photo is of a red dress worn by a hot girl. The b&w one is a hot chick who unfortunately still has a dress on.

[maxim_232]

There is a highlight (beauty dish? Grid?) on her face that in the B&W draws the viewer to her face much quicker than the color version.

[Iaintliein]

Originally Posted by maxim_232

There is a highlight (beauty dish? Grid?) on her face that in the B&W draws the viewer to her face much quicker than the color version.

Yes, it's a grid, used as a hair light in most of the rest of the shots. The fill is a 1x5 strip box on this one. The ones of her playing with the Speed Graphic up in the critique thread used Fresnel strobes for main and fill along with grids on the background and as a kicker/hair light.

[Jake Perman]

After careful examination of both pictures I have come to the conclusion that I REALLY need to book an appointment with DallasBella! God DAMN this girl is hot!

[Iaintliein]

Originally Posted by Jake Perman

After careful examination of both pictures I have come to the conclusion that I REALLY need to book an appointment with DallasBella! God DAMN this girl is hot!

Hot and a real sweetheart to boot. Speaking of boots:




Here the hand mirror caught the hair light unexpectedly making for a somewhat "film noir" look:

[Guest070818-1]

Black and white photos are always a timeless classic! Can't go wrong with the basics. Also - Great pictures of DallasBella. Beautiful!