What is Monochrome Photography?

Monochrome photography is timeless and classic as it focuses on tonal variations within a single color palette. While it's commonly thought to be black and white, monochrome can also involve a single color or various shades of a single color.

Why Shoot in Monochrome?

By limiting the color palette, you can draw the viewer's attention to specific elements of the image, such as the subject, composition, or lighting. This offers a unique opportunity to experiment with different tones and contrasts, creating a wide range of artistic effects.

Whether it's black and white or a single color, monochrome photographs often have a classic and timeless quality that can evoke a sense of nostalgia or emotion.

Tips for Capturing Great Monochrome Photos

Choose the Color Palette

Decide on the main color you want to use. This could be a single color or a range of shades within a specific color family.

Consider the Scene

Look for subjects that complement your chosen color palette. For example, the background complimented this green dress as they were so close to the same shade.

Remember to focus on Lighting & Exposure

Experiment with underexposing or overexposing to create dramatic effects and highlight specific details. Pay attention to the direction and quality of light. Harsh shadows or soft, diffused light can create interesting tonal variations. 

Convert in Post-Processing

While you can shoot directly in monochrome mode on some cameras, converting a color image to monochrome in post-processing gives you more control over the final result.