Better PhotograPhy86
aPRIL 2015when making B&w
HDR images, you can
control the intensity and
gradation of tones, from
black to white.When shooting at a
slow shutterspeed like
1/20sec, switch your
camera to Burst mode
so that you get at least
one sharp image.Quick Tip
Knowing what to shoot
Historical monuments might look
magnificent in colour, but it is not
necessary for the grandeur to translate
in the same manner when shot in black
and white.
Most often, the colours that make these
structures attractive, are not as vibrant in
B&W. They mostly end up looking like
the same shade of grey. Which is why,
it is important to previsualise what the
building will look like when it is stripped
of all its colour.Drawing Out shapes
Architecture is all about form. Therefore, it
is easy to get lost in the different shapes
and lines that make up the structure.
For this reason, it is important to choose
a feature that is simple in form, and has
strong lines and shapes.Know when to use
high and low contrast.
while the former
communicates boldness,
the latter conveys grace.In addition to this, the colours may
sometimes distract you from noticing
certain aspects of the building. But by
converting the image to B&W, you will
notice how your eyes move around the
frame, noticing the different lines and
forms in the photograph.Using Light Dramatically
Shooting in B&W also gives you the
opportunity to play with light in different
theatrical ways, which may not always be
possible when shooting in colour.mONOCHROmaTIC aRCHITECTURE
extent where the final result looks cartoony
or unrealistic.Use a Dedicated software
You can create HDR photographs using
Photoshop. However, a specially designed
software like Photomatix will give you
more tools and options to create a better-
looking image.Raj LalwaniArko Roy