BW Conversion

[SixStringAddict]

I recently purchased a Leica D-Lux4. It is my first Leica so my knowledge of its on board black and white conversion is limited. So would it be better to shoot in BW or to shoot in color and convert the shots into BW? Does the Leica's on board conversion yield better results?

I'm going to get my first real opportunity to use it on a ski trip i'm going to next month.

[kelleyrie]

I nothing of Leicas but I do know that I prefer the control of shooting in color and doing my own conversion. In camera conversion (I have a Canon) lack contrast for me.

[fletch]

Always shoot colour an convert later.

- You will have the colour if you want it (you can't go back to colour from B&W)
- Camera B&W is desaturation which is rarely a good way to convert.

[teaking]

I wont argue there is a lot more control over black and white conversions using colour so if your looking for total control use a colour image for your conversion, also consider subtle split toning this can give some azazing results.

After giving you all that advice I prefer the agonising ordeal of taking in camera black and white I just like the thought process I guess haha.

[OsmosisStudios]

Always always always shoot colour and convert in post. ALWAYS.

Seriously, if you don't I'll haunt your dreams.

[fletch]

Originally Posted by teaking

After giving you all that advice I prefer the agonising ordeal of taking in camera black and white I just like the thought process I guess haha.

People often say they like shooting in camera B&W as it is akin to B&W film, they have to compose in B&W. I say fair enough but you need to realise it is like shooting really crappy flat B&W film.

If you really want the camera LCD to show a B&W image after you shoot then use raw mode. That way you at least still have the colour information to do the conversion properly.