The use of black and white and high key is a winning combination, especially when you have subjects that have such strikingly contrasting markings, such as these razorbills. I really like the use of the high key technique to isolate the subjects in the frame, and the use of out-of-focus foreground - both ensure there are no distracting elements in the image and all the attention is on the subjects. The techniques have created a very simple composition which works brilliantly with the mirrored pose of the birds with their open bills and head position. A great example of less is more.
Black and white photography can convey so much power when used in the right context. In this image, the removal of colour has concentrated all the attention on the dramatic contrast between the shafts of light and the shade of the trees. Centre stage is the stag which is perfectly positioned in the centre of the bright part of the image, the track leading the viewer's eye directly to the animal that is seemingly spotlit by the strong light shafts. The photographer has balanced the exposure extremely well, the highlights and shadow areas provide the perfect contrast and frame for the subject. I love this - a really striking image and a masterclass in the use of black and white.
Brief
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**This contest is open to photographers ranked 1001+ in this week’s <a href="https://www.photocrowd.com/photographer-community/">Leaderboard</a>.** Animals are often defined and instantly recognised by their colours, which makes it interesting to show them from time to time purely in black and white. It can focus attention more on their behaviour, their expressions, the form of their bodies, and their surrounding habitat. Some colour toning of imagery is fine in this contest, as long as the image remains monotone, and the definition of wildlife excludes any domesticated animals or those in a farmed environment.
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748 Photographers
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