Never has the photo world been so friendly to amateur photographers than it is now.  With the advent of social media platforms, like Instagram where you have access to creative tools and filters, the amateur photographer can even turn the mistakes or mishaps into something interesting. If Black and White photography is your passion, you can create some amazing images with just a few tips.

All of these images were shot with and iPhone 5 and iPhone 6.

1. Contrast is a good thing.

There are times during the day where the bright sun makes it next to impossible to capture the image you want.  Those days can be productive if you begin to look at your surroundings like a black and white movie.  For cityscapes or landscapes; look at shadows, clouds and contrast.  You may not have the light for nice family portraits but that sun will give you all kinds of gifts if you look for them.

2. Drop your exposure

When you convert photos to black and white, the ‘whites’ can easily get blown out if you exposed your image for color.  If you plan on shooting in black and white try dropping your exposure a bit so the whites (like clouds) retain their texture.

To find out how to adjust the exposure in your iPhone camera, check out last month’s series on getting the most out of your iPhone.

3. Flat and cloudy days can make for interesting black and white shots.

We’ve all gone out to shoot only to find the light isn’t cooperating.  On days like those, begin to imagine what your black and white shots might look like.  Play with interesting angles, composures and perspectives.

4. Use black and white to create drama.

Sometimes you’ll come across a scenario when you’re shooting that might move you; there is a sense of emotion being conveyed. These images can be the most impactful when they’re shot for black and white. The absence of color can remove the distractions bring the viewer right into the scene.