Quote:
Originally Posted by i speak in math
I love shooting b&w. I have tons of them. I always shoot in color and convert/edit in post. The only problem I have with shooting in monochrome is that the colors tend to be mucky gray instead of b&w. You let the camera choose how to convert a particular color to greyscale. I like to change the hue of the colors before the conversion to show more contrast between colors. I also like to add some warming and occasionally some cross processing like colors back into it.
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You ONLY "allow the camera to choose" if you don't use contrast filters. I have complete and total control over the contrast, dynamic range and exposure value of my B&W shots. I have complete and total control over whether it is high key, low key, or average. I have complete control over the depth, the clarity, and the content when shooting in monotone.
Now...you, obviously, have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to create a wonderful B&W image. With this understanding comes a comprehension of how to properly convert, using all of the tools available to you. That works great for you.
The "colors" are not "mucky and grey" if you properly expose and use contrast filters. The tones of any B&W image will be very neutral, with very low contrast, if you don't expose properly, and MAKE the tones contrast. Neutral tones are similar, and always will be, unless you use filtration to create xcontrast. You and I do
the exact same thing when we apply our different filtration. You apply digital filters, after exposure, to improve and increase your contrast. I use digital and glass filters to improve and increase dynamic contrast during the exposure. If done properly, the end result for both procedures is a quality B&W image. If done improperly, the end result for BOTH procedures is a flat image that lacks dynamic range and contrast.
As I said above, converting works well if done properly, and I am not saying that shooting in monotone is a be all solution, nor am I saying that it is the "always better" option. I am saying ONLY that shooting in monotone is a perfectly acceptable and viable solution for capturing
fantastic B&W images.
The problem is with statements like "never shoot in monotone". Why not? There is no truth to this statement. It is a myth. And it is typically a lack of comprehension of the techniques involved in capturing a GOOD monochromatic exposure that cause people to think like that.
Learn to walk before you try to run. Learn how to properly visualize and PRE-visualize your exposures. Learn how to predict and determine your contrast and dynamic ranges. Learn how to control your exposure values for a specific contrast range, and learn how to
properkly expose a B&W image.
When you limit your techniques, you limit your options. The options available for creating a great B&W are both limited. Converting is limited by digital capabilities. Shooting in monotone is limited by human capabilities. Both are equally limited, and equally viable as a solution. And both will produce fantastic results when done properly, and horrible results if done improperly.