Back in the summer, when I was spending time in New Hampshire, I talked about my inability to “see” in black & white. While I do convert a shot to B&W every now and then, it’s not something I do with any regularity.
Funny thing is, I LOVE black and white photography when it is done well. When the Leica Monochrome was announced this spring, I found the concept of a digital camera that can only shoot in B&W fascinating. While the cost of the camera is crazy high, especially for a black and white ONLY camera, I’ll admit that there’s something appealing to me about only being able to shoot in black & white. I’m convinced that after a period of time with the Leica Monochrome, I would be able to see in B&W and my B&W photography would improve as well. Fortunately for me, I can use my X-Pro 1 set to “monochrome” as a “poor man’s Leica Monochrome.” Given my recent disenchantment with the X-Pro 1, setting it up as a B&W only camera for a period seems like a good way for me to continue to use it.
Fortunately for me, I have one of the world’s most gorgeous models at my disposal every day. So, with the X-Pro 1 set to monochrome mode, I grabbed my girl and commenced with a portrait session.
What’s so cool about the X-Pro 1 is that using the electronic viewfinder (EVF) I can see the photo in black and white as I compose it. So I LITERALLY get to see the shot in B&W before I take it. It’s sort of like cheating, but I found it helpful.
I’m very happy with the results from this “shoot.” In fact, I think these are some of the best shots I’ve taken of Fenway. I’m confident that if I keep using the X-Pro 1 in monochrome and I become more comfortable shooting in black and white you’ll begin to see more monochromatic shots on the site.
Beautiful! Love the B&W shots.
WOW!!! Great shot!!! B&W just brings out the details so perfectly!!! Awesome!!!
Thanks, Chitra, I’m glad you enjoyed them. I’ve been enjoying your pictures on Instagram.
Take care.
Thank you so much Kate. You too take care!!!
This is wonderful and I love your model
, I am in the process of doing the exact same thing but using the Fuji X100, luckily for me I love having this camera with me all of the time, I want to challenge myself and thought about doing a 365day black and white only for a year, but I have not had the dangles to start it yet….. enjoy the BW, great blog
So great shots! Very lovely model.
I have used same approach with my X-Pro1 and love it as a B&W camera. There is a short post of this in my blog.
Awww, Fenway is sooooo cute and what a good model! You did a fantastic job. I just wanted to go in the computer and give Fenway a big squeeze. Lil stinker.