These will not be perfect every time, but the goal is to get as close to perfect on each one each time. Each is equally important.
- Location. Solid subject matter. Something eye-catching.
- Composition. Compose the framing.
- Light. Should do justice to the composition.
- Post Processing. Always try to add value.
Black and white photography depends on gradients from pure black to pure white.
Look for wow factor, intrigue, the values that nature brings to your mind. If you aren’t feeling it, the best photos will not come. If you’re moved by what you’re seeing, then shoot away. Look for the amazing TO YOU.
What am I feeling? What am I trying to communicate to the viewer? Want the viewer to feel the emotions from the visual art. Transport the viewer into a timeless state. This is the highest purpose we have as photographers.
How can I add layers to the composition? Composition can build layers from close to far. Foreground to background. Helps push the eye, creates a sense of depth. What is closest to the viewer has highest detail and greatest contrast. Use darkness to lead the eye to light. Get right up in the face of the subject with a wide angle lens.
Dark to light, near to far, wide to narrow.
LIGHT – More contrast with B&W. Sun at a lower angle creates more contrast and shadows. No warm light and golden hues to consider. Clouds are amazing in B&W.
Post processing is an art, and is very subjective and ever changing. It’s all about mood and emotion. Whatever we feel at the time as an artist, as long as the four pillars are met.
Finally, photography is a journey with no end goal. There is no place of final achievement. Technique and gear are only a part of the whole. Don’t expect to reach some end goal, because there is none. Embrace the work, and keep striving to satisfy your own beliefs about your art. And remember, “there is a lid for every pot.”