Black and white
Simon Hadleigh-Sparks

Black and white

February 2022

Expert
winner

There are several key elements we look for in an image: light, scale and detail. This shot has all of these in equal measure, placing it as a clear winner in this round. We love the diagonal lines, the dwarfed human figure and the way the arch frames the landscape beyond. Very well done on the choice of exposure and focal length.

5,596 Images entered

3,027 Photographers

Brief

See more contest details

Monochrome photography can reveal patterns and details we might otherwise overlook in a colour image. Look for great contrast, exquisite textures and graphic shapes, using light and shadow to capture everything from still life to cityscapes.

A large part of the process of successfully creating a black and white image is in selecting the correct lighting and subject. This is a very engaging image. There is plenty of depth and detail and a tonal range which suits a black and white shot perfectly. Great exposure and processing.

A large part of the process of successfully creating a black and white image is in selecting the correct lighting and subject. This is a very engaging image. There is plenty of depth and detail and a tonal range which suits a black and white shot perfectly. Great exposure and processing.

A large part of the process of successfully creating a black and white image is in selecting the correct lighting and subject. This is a very engaging image. There is plenty of depth and detail and a tonal range which suits a black and white shot perfectly. Great exposure and processing.

A large part of the process of successfully creating a black and white image is in selecting the correct lighting and subject. This is a very engaging image. There is plenty of depth and detail and a tonal range which suits a black and white shot perfectly. Great exposure and processing.

A large part of the process of successfully creating a black and white image is in selecting the correct lighting and subject. This is a very engaging image. There is plenty of depth and detail and a tonal range which suits a black and white shot perfectly. Great exposure and processing.

A large part of the process of successfully creating a black and white image is in selecting the correct lighting and subject. This is a very engaging image. There is plenty of depth and detail and a tonal range which suits a black and white shot perfectly. Great exposure and processing.

A large part of the process of successfully creating a black and white image is in selecting the correct lighting and subject. This is a very engaging image. There is plenty of depth and detail and a tonal range which suits a black and white shot perfectly. Great exposure and processing.

This is a wonderfully engaging portrait shot. We love the direction of the man's gaze - the eyes remain well proportioned, while drawing our gaze into the shot. The lighting is professionally controlled too and the pose is simple and understated. A very contemplative headshot, executed with precision. Congratulations!.

We love the atmosphere of this shot! The not-quite-symmetrical frame is pleasing whilst surprising and the exposure is spot on. There is just enough contrast to add depth, without too much detail loss at the tonal extremes. The framing is ideally proportioned to create a playful theme, perfectly appropriate for the young subjects, exploring their world.

Meet the expert judge

We saw a lot of abstract shots this round, with many images focussing on patterns. This image would have worked as a 2D, top-down shot, but the glancing sunlight adds some intriguing depth, drawing the eye into what is otherwise a flat picture. Well spotted and composed.

A large part of the process of successfully creating a black and white image is in selecting the correct lighting and subject. This is a very engaging image. There is plenty of depth and detail and a tonal range which suits a black and white shot perfectly. Great exposure and processing.

What a peaceful scene! We can imaging the sound of lapping water and birdsong in this morning light. The exposure is masterfully balance, holding detail in the highlights, while preventing the shadows from turning black. The minimalist composition fits the delicate tones and creates a contemplative scene which demands repeat views.

Entry 11732093
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