Monochrome photography is a timeless art form that has mesmerized audiences for over a century.
Monochrome photography refers to images that are captured in shades of a single colour, usually black and white, where unlike colour photography, which uses multiple hues, monochrome photography focuses on contrast, textures, light, and shadow to create compelling visuals.
While black and white is the most common form of monochrome photography, it can also involve other single colours, such as sepia or even a single hue (like blue or red), giving a different feel or mood to the image.
The essence of monochrome photography is that it relies heavily on tonal contrast, composition, and the play of light, often leading to powerful, timeless, and artistic images. It can also strip away the distraction of colours, allowing the viewer to focus more on the subject and details.
Over the years, technological advancements in film and printing have enhanced its ability to capture intricate details, rich tonality, and bold contrasts.
For much of the 20th century, black and white photography was the dominant medium, with legends like Ansel Adams and Henri Cartier-Bresson producing iconic works that remain celebrated today.
However, the introduction of Kodacolour film in the 1960s brought a shift, offering photographers the option to capture the world in vivid colour. Despite this, black and white photography continues to endure, with many photographers still opting for this medium to create compelling and emotive imagery.