The Beauty of Monochrome

Let’s ditch the idea that Monochrome photography is just hitting 'Black and White' and crossing your fingers.

Back in my 6th form days, I kicked off my journey into SLR photography with a project called ‘Painting with Light' because, well, that's what photography is. In the monochrome scene, this is even more applicable. 

Sliders and layers of post processing still exist, but with colour out of the picture, it becomes all about working the light, shadows, contrasts, textures, and angles to craft an atmosphere. A vibe. A story.

Monochrome lends itself so well to my overall style of embracing imperfections, and capturing moods that transcend a commercial, billboard-ready image… and that’s why it features so much on my platforms: because my photography is not about the gloss; it's about celebrating the grit, the genuine, the emotion.

That’s not to say that I wouldn’t give other, less moody vibes a try, or that I steer away from colour at all costs. Nor does it mean that I look at colourful photography in any sort of negative way. The use and celebration of vivid colour is a process of its own, and there's a time and place for everything. Sure, I'm all for exploring different vibes—those sun-soaked, upbeat moments have their time and place too. It's just that when it comes to monochrome, it's like tapping into a different dimension, one where the mood takes center stage. And you know me… I love a mood.

Monochrome is not a limitation; it’s a choice to embrace a different visual language.

Let’s redefine our perception of monochrome as not just a button to press, but an invitation to explore the soul of an image, to celebrate the elegance of simplicity, and to communicate a narrative that transcends the vibrancy of colour.