Black and white photography

About this course

The course examines how contrast, light, shape, form, pattern, texture and composition affect monochrome images. It covers portraiture, landscapes, objects and street photography, alongside examples from established black-and-white photographers and an introduction to traditional analogue processes. Teaching combines presentations, discussion, reflection and guided studio and outdoor activities. Participants work on making digital black-and-white prints and complete tasks between classes, with course resources provided online.

What you'll learn

• Create a body of black-and-white photographic work
• Assess how different qualities of light translate into monochrome images
• Use contrast, composition, patterns, lines and framing in black-and-white photography
• Make more deliberate decisions about photographing in black and white rather than converting images afterwards
• Produce black-and-white digital prints

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for photographers at Improver level who already know how to use manual camera settings, including shutter speed, f-stops and ISO. It is not designed for beginners in photography. Participants should be able to follow written and verbal instructions, take part in group discussion and complete tasks between classes.

• Requires existing familiarity with manual camera settings
• Includes tutor-guided activities in the studio and outdoors
• Some outdoor activities involve walking
• Includes tasks to complete between classes

Before you go

• Participants may bring their own camera if they have one. Digital SLR and mirrorless cameras, tripods, lenses and flash are available to use during class, but cannot be borrowed between lessons.
• A notebook and pen may be useful, and a USB memory stick is recommended.
• Resources are provided through Google Classroom.
• Outdoor activities involve some walking; questions about this can be directed to Visual Arts.