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How can I take B&W photos? PDF Print E-mail
Written by Web Master   
Thursday, 08 May 2008 22:06
Q: How Can I take Black and White Photos?
A: Easy!!!


Q: What Sort of camera do I need?
A: Just about any sort, film or digital. Try Black and White with your camera!

Q: Can I get Black and White prints using normal colour film?
A: Yes. You can get Black and White prints from colour negatives. Most photo processing shops provide this facility. Some have better equipment for doing this than others. Shop around.

Q: What’s 'C41' Black and White film?
A: This is a film that only produces Black and White prints but is processed the same way as colour film. The means you can get it processed anywhere that processes normal colour film, and for the same cost! This film is available from most film processing and camera stores. Get a roll and try Black and White!

Q: How do I get a Black and White Print from a Digital Camera?
A: The digital image needs to be converted to "greyscale". Some cameras have this facility. Otherwise it needs to done on a PC or when printed at a photo processing shop.

Q: Do I need a 'dark room' and a lot of chemicals to manipulate images?
A: No. You can manipulate it on your PC using readily available software. It can be printed on a home printer or you can put it on a floppy disk or CD and take it to a photo processing shop for printing.

Q: Do I need a Digital Camera to manipulate photos on my PC?
A: No. Most film processing shops can scan the images when the film is processed and provide a CD with the images on it. You can then load these on to your PC. You could also use a home scanner to scan them yourself.

Q: Do all photographs look better in Black and White?
A: No. A photo of a red rose bush in full flower would be better in colour! People and scenes that contain a range of dark and light tones are good places to start. Take a look at a few old B&W movies and see what the moviemakers did.

Q: How can I find out more?
A: Most libraries have a good collection of books on photography and contain the works of famous photographers. Stay clear of the ones that feature "dark room" techniques unless that’s of specific interest. There is also a huge amount of information on the Internet, have a browse!

Talking to knowledgeable people in the subject is also a very good way, chat to the staff at a good photo processing shop, camera store or visit a camera club.

Q: Do I need to be an "expert" photographer to join a camera club?
A: Not at all, it’s a place for all to enjoy photography. Some members put heir work into competitions, some don’t, and some don’t even take photos. Everyone learns.

Q: Do I need a "good" camera before I can join a camera club?
A: No. Use a camera that meets your needs. Everyone wants a better camera! If you are contemplating a "purchase" it may be better to wait till after you join.
Last Updated on Thursday, 08 May 2008 22:26
 
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