Black and White Digital Photography: Mastering Monochrome Artistry

Instructor: Shona Iverson
Tuesdays 5:30-8:30pm
5 weeks: February 25 to March 25
Location: Online
$387.50 (supplies not included)
Prerequisite: Photography I, or Phoneography, or Making the Most of Your DSLR Camera

This course explores the art and techniques of black and white digital photography. Students will learn how to see and think in monochrome, understanding the principles of tone, contrast, and composition that are key to creating striking black and white images. Through lectures, hands-on exercises, and photo walks, students will learn how to shoot, process, and critique black and white images with creativity and technical proficiency.

Syllabus

  • Overview of black and white photography in digital media
  • The history and aesthetics of black and white photography
  • Differences between color and monochrome images
  • The role of contrast, texture, and light in black and white
  • The importance of seeing in monochrome before shooting
  • Understanding exposure: ISO, shutter speed, and aperture in the context of black and white
  • How exposure impacts contrast and detail in monochrome images
  • Compositional elements unique to black and white photography (e.g., leading lines, framing, shapes, patterns)
  • The role of shadows and highlights
  • Introduction to black and white conversion in photo editing software (e.g., Lightroom, Photoshop)
  • Working with the tonal range: adjusting exposure, contrast, and curves
  • Using filters (digital or physical) for creative effects (e.g., red or yellow filters)
  • How to evaluate black and white images: critical elements such as mood, storytelling, and visual impact

Supplies

  • Digital camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or advanced compact) with manual controls
  • Access to photo editing software (Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or similar)
  • Memory card and portable storage for images
  • Tripod (optional but recommended for stability in certain lighting conditions)