Group 64 Bulletin Board
8 threads - 38 total comments
This page is dedicated to discussions about our theme (Monochrome) that are outside the scope of our monthly images.
Thread Title: Black & White Photography: “Is my picture better in color, or black and white”?
Committing to the Black & White Photograph: “Is my picture better in color, or black and white”?
“I especially urge students of photography to disengage from serious contemplation on how the color original connects to them as a prerequisite for critical analysis of the Black and White converted one”. L. A. Lewin
Nowadays, and for all practical purposes, every digital image is first rendered as a color image ... I suggest this forced, initial color rendering, is unique in its influential status: we are dictated to interpret the color image first ... even edit the color image in post-production before converting it to a black and white (BW) alternative. This process is much different from shooting a roll of BW film where the photographer is never introduced to color. In this scenario the photographer’s interpretation is (unbiased) or not heavily influenced by viewing a color version first; that is, choosing and studying a color image before converting to BW is not part of the equation when shooting BW film. So, the question ... “Is my picture better in color, or black and white”? ... is not part of the normal workflow when shooting, developing, and eventually presenting a BW tangible photograph.
Nonetheless, here we are, examining the color (original) first and then making a decision if the image is worthy for rendering in black and white. I argue, this (digital) workflow is interfering with how we learn to appreciate BW compositions for what they reveal on their own merits. It is for this reason I especially urge students of photography to disengage from serious contemplation on how the color original connects to them as a prerequisite for critical analysis of the black and white converted one. Instead, the initial evaluation of your work should be centered only on your BW rendering: this will lessen the tendency to judge our Black & White photography based on preconceptions learned from studying color images. Much like the artist painter who chooses to use only one or two colors in all their work, they never make and present a full-colored version for comparison, similarly, the serious photographer that practices composing work in black & white is fully committed to his or her ideals, visions and philosophy that ultimately directed them to create in this manner ... and comparisons to natural color alternatives have no place in the conversation.
The serious or advanced artist-photographer who centers her art in Black and White imagery does so, not by choosing from an assortment of color originals, but instead, the artist is impervious to the color version: her thoughts are not...’will this look better...’ but instead moves forward and (digitally converts) the color original to BW. It is not uncommon, too, to convert the color original to B&W and not like it at all. This is no different from the reaction the artist-photographer exhibits viewing his latest roll of B&W film and decides a particular subject is not as engaging as she would have hoped.
In the future, do not ask... “Is my picture better in color, or black and white” ... if you are an artist-photographer who strives to showcase your creativity through a mostly White to Black tonal gamut, then instead, direct the spectator to your B&W fine art photography for what (it) is. In this sense, we are presenting the work “as is”.
I look forward to hearing like experiences and comments regardless if in support or ones that challenge the proposed work process. In the end, it is all about sharing ideas in though-provoking discourse. Thank you.
Lance A. Lewin Fine Art Photographer/Lecturer
PSA Global Black & White Photography Mentor
PSA South Atlantic Area Membership Director Posted: 09/01/2023 06:18:11
“I especially urge students of photography to disengage from serious contemplation on how the color original connects to them as a prerequisite for critical analysis of the Black and White converted one”. L. A. Lewin
Nowadays, and for all practical purposes, every digital image is first rendered as a color image ... I suggest this forced, initial color rendering, is unique in its influential status: we are dictated to interpret the color image first ... even edit the color image in post-production before converting it to a black and white (BW) alternative. This process is much different from shooting a roll of BW film where the photographer is never introduced to color. In this scenario the photographer’s interpretation is (unbiased) or not heavily influenced by viewing a color version first; that is, choosing and studying a color image before converting to BW is not part of the equation when shooting BW film. So, the question ... “Is my picture better in color, or black and white”? ... is not part of the normal workflow when shooting, developing, and eventually presenting a BW tangible photograph.
Nonetheless, here we are, examining the color (original) first and then making a decision if the image is worthy for rendering in black and white. I argue, this (digital) workflow is interfering with how we learn to appreciate BW compositions for what they reveal on their own merits. It is for this reason I especially urge students of photography to disengage from serious contemplation on how the color original connects to them as a prerequisite for critical analysis of the black and white converted one. Instead, the initial evaluation of your work should be centered only on your BW rendering: this will lessen the tendency to judge our Black & White photography based on preconceptions learned from studying color images. Much like the artist painter who chooses to use only one or two colors in all their work, they never make and present a full-colored version for comparison, similarly, the serious photographer that practices composing work in black & white is fully committed to his or her ideals, visions and philosophy that ultimately directed them to create in this manner ... and comparisons to natural color alternatives have no place in the conversation.
The serious or advanced artist-photographer who centers her art in Black and White imagery does so, not by choosing from an assortment of color originals, but instead, the artist is impervious to the color version: her thoughts are not...’will this look better...’ but instead moves forward and (digitally converts) the color original to BW. It is not uncommon, too, to convert the color original to B&W and not like it at all. This is no different from the reaction the artist-photographer exhibits viewing his latest roll of B&W film and decides a particular subject is not as engaging as she would have hoped.
In the future, do not ask... “Is my picture better in color, or black and white” ... if you are an artist-photographer who strives to showcase your creativity through a mostly White to Black tonal gamut, then instead, direct the spectator to your B&W fine art photography for what (it) is. In this sense, we are presenting the work “as is”.
I look forward to hearing like experiences and comments regardless if in support or ones that challenge the proposed work process. In the end, it is all about sharing ideas in though-provoking discourse. Thank you.
Lance A. Lewin Fine Art Photographer/Lecturer
PSA Global Black & White Photography Mentor
PSA South Atlantic Area Membership Director Posted: 09/01/2023 06:18:11
To put it simply, “go photograph in monochrome mode and experience how light works and study the Masters of Black and White. Then one can learn by that experience both making Monochrome images and converting color to Black and White. Learn to see in black-and-white!” Posted: 09/01/2023 07:13:09
I don't disagee wth that, Lance. When I show a mono photo to most people, I don't offer the original colour image for comparison.
However in the DD, we are discussing the pros and cons of our interpretation of the subject, and sometines it's possible to see from the original colour image how the author's mono result might have been improved during conversion (if using a flexible conversion engine like PS or Affinity).
All of us see the initial scene in colour. That was true in the "good old days" of mono film. I for one had a "pan viewing" filter, a square of deep purple glass, to try to see how the mono would come out. A "mono eye" takes some time and practice to develop! Of course back then, every time I pressed the shutter button, a significant (to me) cost was incurred. Now we can blast away and experiment to our hearts' content at negligible cost.
So comparing the colour original to my draft finished mono, with other mono photographers, is something I like doing from time to time. It's all part of the learning and fun! Posted: 09/01/2023 09:49:00
However in the DD, we are discussing the pros and cons of our interpretation of the subject, and sometines it's possible to see from the original colour image how the author's mono result might have been improved during conversion (if using a flexible conversion engine like PS or Affinity).
All of us see the initial scene in colour. That was true in the "good old days" of mono film. I for one had a "pan viewing" filter, a square of deep purple glass, to try to see how the mono would come out. A "mono eye" takes some time and practice to develop! Of course back then, every time I pressed the shutter button, a significant (to me) cost was incurred. Now we can blast away and experiment to our hearts' content at negligible cost.
So comparing the colour original to my draft finished mono, with other mono photographers, is something I like doing from time to time. It's all part of the learning and fun! Posted: 09/01/2023 09:49:00
Well said, Stuart. It is nice to keep a proper balance between the esoteric and the practical and keep what we do fun and interesting in how we see. Posted: 09/01/2023 13:08:56
Perhaps you missed the point of this article:
The purpose of the article is highlighting the review/practice witnessed in almost every local club, guild, and of course, the PSA study groups. As such, sometimes a lot of what is said is misleading. The article then offers alternative practices for a more "pure" and effective means of learning.
(And John, indeed, one of first things I teach students is begin studying 19th, 20th and 21st century photographers and painters ... but, no, its not simple at all).
You don't necessary need to learn to "see" in black and white, you first learn to 1. compose, 2. (if digitally converting to B&W) learn how to apply/finish (pursuit of tonal gamut) that best fits your artistic vision and/or subject and or environment. Except for very few subjects, every person, place or event registered through a camera is a candidate for B&W rendering.
The above article clearly articulates such concepts/practices that will improve visualization skills and learning how to increase spectator "appreciation" when contemplating a black and white projected image or tangible print. Thank you.
Lance A. Lewin
PSA Global B&W Photography Mentor
PSA South Atlantic Area Membership Director
lance.visualizingart@gmail.com Posted: 09/01/2023 15:12:18
The purpose of the article is highlighting the review/practice witnessed in almost every local club, guild, and of course, the PSA study groups. As such, sometimes a lot of what is said is misleading. The article then offers alternative practices for a more "pure" and effective means of learning.
(And John, indeed, one of first things I teach students is begin studying 19th, 20th and 21st century photographers and painters ... but, no, its not simple at all).
You don't necessary need to learn to "see" in black and white, you first learn to 1. compose, 2. (if digitally converting to B&W) learn how to apply/finish (pursuit of tonal gamut) that best fits your artistic vision and/or subject and or environment. Except for very few subjects, every person, place or event registered through a camera is a candidate for B&W rendering.
The above article clearly articulates such concepts/practices that will improve visualization skills and learning how to increase spectator "appreciation" when contemplating a black and white projected image or tangible print. Thank you.
Lance A. Lewin
PSA Global B&W Photography Mentor
PSA South Atlantic Area Membership Director
lance.visualizingart@gmail.com Posted: 09/01/2023 15:12:18
I haven't missed the point at all. I however have my own way to approaching this topic. I disagree with your approach, but don't want to argue with you. That is not the point of this Bulletin Board.
Your opinions have their validity, but I don't need to subscribe to or acquiesce to your way of dialogue about this. Furthermore, I don't approve of your seeming to lecture me on the subject. I believe that is very out of place in the dialogue. It is also offensive.
Finally, I never said the concept are simple. I said specific to my "quote" above for me it is a simple approach for learning by seeing and also pre-visualization. But, I will say, I choose not to over think it, but rather feel it and sense and experience how it affects me so I can reach others. Then I can get practical and wonderful results. Posted: 09/01/2023 15:38:56
Your opinions have their validity, but I don't need to subscribe to or acquiesce to your way of dialogue about this. Furthermore, I don't approve of your seeming to lecture me on the subject. I believe that is very out of place in the dialogue. It is also offensive.
Finally, I never said the concept are simple. I said specific to my "quote" above for me it is a simple approach for learning by seeing and also pre-visualization. But, I will say, I choose not to over think it, but rather feel it and sense and experience how it affects me so I can reach others. Then I can get practical and wonderful results. Posted: 09/01/2023 15:38:56
And you think I'm being offensive. In 40 years involved with photography I have never heard this. Fascinating twist, indeed.
But I am sorry if you feel this way. Posted: 09/02/2023 04:47:17
But I am sorry if you feel this way. Posted: 09/02/2023 04:47:17
“And John, indeed, one of first things I teach students is begin studying 19th, 20th and 21st century photographers and painters ... but, no, its not simple at all).
You don't necessary need to learn to "see" in black and white, you first learn to 1. compose, 2. (if digitally converting to B&W) learn how to apply/finish (pursuit of tonal gamut) that best fits your artistic vision and/or subject and or environment. Except for very few subjects, every person, place or event registered through a camera is a candidate for B&W rendering.”
The above quote appeared to be directed at me instead of at photographers in general. I found that unnecessary and redundant like you were trying to beat home your way of thinking. I suggest stepping back and not being the teacher sometimes and being a participant.
Posted: 09/02/2023 09:29:39
You don't necessary need to learn to "see" in black and white, you first learn to 1. compose, 2. (if digitally converting to B&W) learn how to apply/finish (pursuit of tonal gamut) that best fits your artistic vision and/or subject and or environment. Except for very few subjects, every person, place or event registered through a camera is a candidate for B&W rendering.”
The above quote appeared to be directed at me instead of at photographers in general. I found that unnecessary and redundant like you were trying to beat home your way of thinking. I suggest stepping back and not being the teacher sometimes and being a participant.
Posted: 09/02/2023 09:29:39
Just seeing this comment from you: No, that was a general comment: something I teach all students at lectures and Mentorship participants if the question arises .. and does most often, indeed. ( I should have realized using "You" would be misread ... sorry). Posted: 11/07/2023 08:45:50
I think I did miss your point, or maybe it's just contrary to my way of seeing mono and therefore difficult to for me to understand. Photography is a very practical subject to me, and philosophical considerations are usually over my head.
I see mono as one genre in photography. I enjoy it, partly as it reminds me of my darkroom years, but mainly because I love a good mono. It's a heart thing. But it's not the only genre that interests me. Mono is different and exciting when done well, but I still see a colour image as usually the path to the mono.
I sometimes go out looking for monos, when I'll set my camera to mono jpgs (but I only work from RAW), so my camera becomes my "PV filter". But more often I look at my library and select colour images which might have more impact and meaning as mono. They're not hard to find.
I once read in my youth a statement in a book "When colour is an important part of a photo, use colour. If not, use mono." This is a great statement I think, and helps select scenes, either before or after the exposure, as potentially good in mono. But it doesn't always work, of course. Sometimes the mono is disappointing, and the colour might be better! Not necessarily good, though.
So that's how I go about mono photography. I won't be buying a Leica monochrom! (Unless I win the lottery.)
Posted: 09/01/2023 15:57:16
I see mono as one genre in photography. I enjoy it, partly as it reminds me of my darkroom years, but mainly because I love a good mono. It's a heart thing. But it's not the only genre that interests me. Mono is different and exciting when done well, but I still see a colour image as usually the path to the mono.
I sometimes go out looking for monos, when I'll set my camera to mono jpgs (but I only work from RAW), so my camera becomes my "PV filter". But more often I look at my library and select colour images which might have more impact and meaning as mono. They're not hard to find.
I once read in my youth a statement in a book "When colour is an important part of a photo, use colour. If not, use mono." This is a great statement I think, and helps select scenes, either before or after the exposure, as potentially good in mono. But it doesn't always work, of course. Sometimes the mono is disappointing, and the colour might be better! Not necessarily good, though.
So that's how I go about mono photography. I won't be buying a Leica monochrom! (Unless I win the lottery.)
Posted: 09/01/2023 15:57:16
Appreciate your polite and thoughtful comments: indeed, you enjoy a specific workflow ... this works for you, but a lot more people are seemingly lost on several aspects of photography (including black & white) and my words help many find a more direct and pure thinking to photography. (A lot of issues arise between the concepts between "classic tradition" and the digital photography revolution).
Indeed, this does encounter the philosophy of photography, but within the Mentorship program and lectures I give, this technique of learning seemingly, kick-starts many into a new or fresh means of interpreting photography culture. Thank you for your time. Posted: 09/02/2023 04:58:14
Indeed, this does encounter the philosophy of photography, but within the Mentorship program and lectures I give, this technique of learning seemingly, kick-starts many into a new or fresh means of interpreting photography culture. Thank you for your time. Posted: 09/02/2023 04:58:14
Update: so I am very clear .... I do mean I suggest we "disconnect emotionally" from the color version, but editing the color version is persuaded! I think misinterpreting this caused a lot of friction. Thank you. Posted: 09/12/2023 11:34:11
Thread Title: Photographic Society of America PTD Competition Corner
Hello, everyone! After reading Nadia’s entry in the PSA supplemental Travel Journal, I thought it was important enough to re-post in the Digital Dialogue group pages. Here, we are reminded that “changing reality” is not allowed in PSA Travel Photography competition. In addition, I also want to stress the need to appropriately categorize one’s work if using “composite” techniques (including sky replacement) by tagging the work as a Hybrid Image, primarily when competing outside the Travel Photography category.
Below is a shortened version of Nadia Filiaggi’s original post in this months Travel Photography Journal.
Photography Travel is a documentary medium, and our images must reflect what was seen when we pressed the shutter. Removing, adding to, moving, or changing any part of an image except for cropping and straightening is not allowed. This goes for adding a different sky even if you are the author of the sky that is being replaced. (Please see the images below for reference).
(Note that using an element on an image that is not your own work cannot be entered into any section of a PSA recognized Exhibitions and is in violation of the PSA Ethics Policy).
Here are some examples showing the sky replacements selected from the Photoshop sky replacement facility: Here, it is evident how each Sky Replacement selection changes the mood and overall aesthetic of the original registered event below. Nonetheless, both examples are not authentic and thus ineligible to be used in PSA image competition.
The ‘2023 Photo Travel Guide for Judges and Chairs’ is available for download on the Photo Travel’s webpage: https://psa-photo.org/page/photo-travel
The Photo Travel Division has also set up a Gallery of staged/set-up images which our members can peruse: https://psa-photo.org/page/mo-ptd-staged-images
We have also produced new educational material that relates to the 2023 Guide: https://psa-photo.org/page/mo-ptd-resources
If you are uncertain if your image adheres to the Photo Travel Definition, please make use of the free Photo Travel Evaluation Service which members can access after login: https://psa-photo.org/page/mo-individual-image-evaluation
We look forward to hearing from you and directing your questions to the appropriate PSA administrator.
Originally posted by:
Nadia Filiaggi MPSA EFIAP
Email: ptd-esd@psa-photo.org
Best regards,
Lance A. Lewin (DD83 and DD87 Admin)
PSA B&W Photography Mentor
PSA South Atlantic Area Membership Director
Email: lance.visualizingart@gmail.com
Posted: 03/28/2023 20:51:00
Below is a shortened version of Nadia Filiaggi’s original post in this months Travel Photography Journal.
Photography Travel is a documentary medium, and our images must reflect what was seen when we pressed the shutter. Removing, adding to, moving, or changing any part of an image except for cropping and straightening is not allowed. This goes for adding a different sky even if you are the author of the sky that is being replaced. (Please see the images below for reference).
(Note that using an element on an image that is not your own work cannot be entered into any section of a PSA recognized Exhibitions and is in violation of the PSA Ethics Policy).
Here are some examples showing the sky replacements selected from the Photoshop sky replacement facility: Here, it is evident how each Sky Replacement selection changes the mood and overall aesthetic of the original registered event below. Nonetheless, both examples are not authentic and thus ineligible to be used in PSA image competition.
The ‘2023 Photo Travel Guide for Judges and Chairs’ is available for download on the Photo Travel’s webpage: https://psa-photo.org/page/photo-travel
The Photo Travel Division has also set up a Gallery of staged/set-up images which our members can peruse: https://psa-photo.org/page/mo-ptd-staged-images
We have also produced new educational material that relates to the 2023 Guide: https://psa-photo.org/page/mo-ptd-resources
If you are uncertain if your image adheres to the Photo Travel Definition, please make use of the free Photo Travel Evaluation Service which members can access after login: https://psa-photo.org/page/mo-individual-image-evaluation
We look forward to hearing from you and directing your questions to the appropriate PSA administrator.
Originally posted by:
Nadia Filiaggi MPSA EFIAP
Email: ptd-esd@psa-photo.org
Best regards,
Lance A. Lewin (DD83 and DD87 Admin)
PSA B&W Photography Mentor
PSA South Atlantic Area Membership Director
Email: lance.visualizingart@gmail.com
Posted: 03/28/2023 20:51:00
Posted: 03/28/2023 20:51:15
ORIGINAL IMAGE REGISTERED BY THE CAMERA: acceptable Posted: 03/28/2023 20:51:48
Thread Title: Open All Your Senses for the Process of Visualization
As a child between the ages of 10 through 13, I moved from Brooklyn NY to the forest covered landscape of Springfield, PA, where I immediately found hiking to be an experience that opened all his senses: the aroma’s from a variety of plants, flowers and especially the strong Earthy scents from fallen and dried leaves of fall, opened my eyes - I learned to become one with my immediate environment. I still fall into this trance each time I hikes or rides my mountain bike, regardless if I am local or enjoying a sojourn to landscapes far away.
Through the process of “Visualization”, we learn to see what others often miss in their hurried pace: creeping along the forest floor or climbing tree limbs to explore often hidden spaces. Peering through bushes, thick grass and exploring behind rocks, or the crevasse of tree-bark and moss to examine the intricacies and interactions between light, shadow and texture. Alternatively, take a step back to encompass a wider view to capture a grand-scape perspective: together these different views bring to print, a swatch of the normally hidden beauty, mystery and foremost, reality, that surround our space. I look forward to your feedback and common experiences.
Lance A. Lewin
PSA BW Photography Mentor
visualizingart.com Posted: 04/03/2021 14:37:00
Through the process of “Visualization”, we learn to see what others often miss in their hurried pace: creeping along the forest floor or climbing tree limbs to explore often hidden spaces. Peering through bushes, thick grass and exploring behind rocks, or the crevasse of tree-bark and moss to examine the intricacies and interactions between light, shadow and texture. Alternatively, take a step back to encompass a wider view to capture a grand-scape perspective: together these different views bring to print, a swatch of the normally hidden beauty, mystery and foremost, reality, that surround our space. I look forward to your feedback and common experiences.
Lance A. Lewin
PSA BW Photography Mentor
visualizingart.com Posted: 04/03/2021 14:37:00
Pre-visualization helps to see the tonal range of light to dark and to appreciate how they relate to one another to give us a dynamic scene no matter how broad or intimate it might be. That is one of the reasons I like very much to photograph using the picture control film simulations such as those offered in my Nikon or Fuji cameras. By setting the camera to various monochrome settings along with using my evolving pre-visualization skill of what the end-results will be to then capture the light. Often that is all I need to see delightful results. I get excited with the out of the camera monochrome jpeg often. It also can be a good reference point for adjusting a RAW image in the manner that meets my objective such as various post processing options one can get with Nik or ON1 or other software that can simulate various film effects, dynamic range variations, contract, etc.. Posted: 04/05/2021 09:28:21
Thank you for your comments, John. Yes, pre-visualization is another user process that deals more precisely with the scope of dynamics related to in-camera and planning the final version. This of course comes after finding Art in Nature through a process that allows the user to connect with his or her environment. We even see this wisdom in the words by 16th Century painter, Albrecht Durer , as he was commenting on his lesser known Nature Watercolors..."Art is hidden in nature...and, that he who can tear her out of it, owns her". Posted: 04/27/2021 19:25:21
Thread Title: Blake Rudis on B&W Processing
https://youtu.be/aSS1LU3yTDY Posted: 01/09/2021 16:38:07
Some beneficial information including the science of color and how it works for those using Photoshop for B&W Conversion. I don't agree with Blake's submission of composition regarding an image, but know that he is focusing on the tonal effects one creates in a Monochrome image. Of course, he is in the business of selling his presets and actions. Good for him and it certainly is educational for all who want a better understanding. Posted: 01/10/2021 10:56:32
I agree with John; saying that composition is always way subservient to colour is a bit naive and indicative of his commercial interests I think. But his demonstration of how mono tones come out using various conversion procedures using his colour wheels and subject I though was very interesting. His result on the church interior is a matter of taste, but I can't say I was wild about it. Regardless, his process has good lessons for us, I think. Thanks for the link, Tom. Posted: 01/11/2021 04:35:54
I have been a Nik Silver Efex mono conversion person for years, but with the new selection options in Lightroom, I am starting to use Lightroom for the process. The control points in Nik have always been very soft selections and I have often placed another selection around what I want to minimize the leakage outside what I want to process. Lightroom selections can be very precise and there are several that are relatively "automatic" like Sky and Subject. The monochrome conversion allows the color sliders to work on individual colors and you can reprocess the monochrome version with the sliders in the basic panel or whatever. Posted: 03/29/2023 12:27:02
Thread Title: Pixel 4 Phones
I was struggling at first to see how to create a new post here, but you just start typing in the input box at the bottom of the page without having clicked a "Reply" button first.
So this is in response to Jerry's comments about the Pixel 4 phones rather than put it in the discussion about his October picture.
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The 4a 5G offer has ended. Sad, I fancied an excuse to get the new Bose headphones! But actually a red herring I now have found. The 4a in either version doesn't have the tele lens. Here's what I found (ignoring the selfie / video call front cameras) on a web site giving phone specifications -
4a XL -
Camera 1 - 12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4 ½½m, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
Camera 2 -16 MP, f/2.4, 50mm (telephoto), 1/3.6", 1.0 ½½m, PDAF, OIS, 2x optical zoom
4a
Single camera, 12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4 ½½m, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
4a 5G
Camera 1, 12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4 ½½m, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
Camera 2 16 MP, f/2.2, 107˚ (ultrawide), 1.0 ½½m
So the 4a only has a single camera the same as the wide one in the XL, and the 4a 5G has 2 cameras but a wide and an ultrawide rather than the wide and tele on your XL. Pity, they are pandering to a different market with the 4a, not to true photographers I think.
I might see a bargain on ebay! Posted: 10/25/2020 05:15:31
So this is in response to Jerry's comments about the Pixel 4 phones rather than put it in the discussion about his October picture.
--------------------------------------------------
The 4a 5G offer has ended. Sad, I fancied an excuse to get the new Bose headphones! But actually a red herring I now have found. The 4a in either version doesn't have the tele lens. Here's what I found (ignoring the selfie / video call front cameras) on a web site giving phone specifications -
4a XL -
Camera 1 - 12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4 ½½m, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
Camera 2 -16 MP, f/2.4, 50mm (telephoto), 1/3.6", 1.0 ½½m, PDAF, OIS, 2x optical zoom
4a
Single camera, 12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4 ½½m, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
4a 5G
Camera 1, 12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4 ½½m, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
Camera 2 16 MP, f/2.2, 107˚ (ultrawide), 1.0 ½½m
So the 4a only has a single camera the same as the wide one in the XL, and the 4a 5G has 2 cameras but a wide and an ultrawide rather than the wide and tele on your XL. Pity, they are pandering to a different market with the 4a, not to true photographers I think.
I might see a bargain on ebay! Posted: 10/25/2020 05:15:31
Thanks for sharing the information, is there monochrome theme related information in what you post? If so, please clarify. If not, Stuart, I think it might better be placed in the discussion with the picture you are discussing. Otherwise it can be confusing to folks tracking monochrome themes in our Study Group. The Bulletin Board is only dedicated to Monochrome themes. Posted: 10/25/2020 09:18:17
Hmm, OK, I see your point. It doesn't have a mono theme per se, it just rose from a mono theme and I felt it was better removed from the discussion about Jerry's photo. But it doesn't fit here either in that case. Seems a shame to rule out such discussions, but we could we share email addresses and do it privately. Clearly we don't want discussions completely removed from photography, but if you prefer I'll keep "off theme" comments short and in the main group page. Posted: 10/25/2020 16:45:13
I suppose, other discussion topics can exist here, I just feel like we need to be clear about them. My inclination is to keep it simple and applicable to the theme of our group. It fits in the image discussion of the image you mentioned just fine. Based on the Header for our Bulletin Board ("This page is dedicated to discussions about our theme (Monochrome) that are outside the scope of our monthly images"), my thought is that if it isn't directly related to the Monochrome themes of our Study Group, other visitors to our page and perhaps even our own study group members, might not understand how something relates specifically to the themes of our group. If you want an email for one within our group, I will send it to you, after I get their permission. BTW, I am open to considering this further...I will send a note to our group in the near feature to see what others think. Posted: 10/25/2020 16:59:16
OK, thanks. Posted: 10/25/2020 17:09:52
Thread Title: Black and White Photography: Interpretation of the Whole
A few words beyond the popular definitions of Monochrome and Black and White Photography (BW): here I speak a few words on the philosophy of BW photography and its place within the Fine Arts. (This piece is also posted in Group 83-Mono that I administrate.)
When we view the world around us our eyes and mind work together in a process that is quick and efficient at first, we spend little time discerning between individual objects (including both light and shadow, color and texture) when deciding…" oh, what a beautiful scene or view or architectural skyline" …we simply 'take in the whole'…and immediately interpret what we are viewing is something of immense interest. The BW photograph, and as important or relevant in this discussion, black and white Cinema, allow our senses to work in a similar fashion: upon viewing these BW images (or videos) we very quickly digest the content and form an interpretation. We are not transfixed on color objects and/or artifacts that can interfere with the normal eye and mind collaboration we rely on in everyday life.
Successful photographs are ones that can reveal its Gestalt; where interpretation of the whole is more expressive (interesting or seems to "prick" the viewer, as Roland Barthes so eloquently coined in 1980) than the artworks individual details. Many BW interpretations help reveal a subject more completely, maybe even more emotionally then its multi-color alternatives.
Nowadays, (as a consequence of the Digital Photography revolution) everything captured is rendered first as a color image - this initial color rendering is unique in its influential slant: we are dictated to interpret the color image first - even edit the color image in post-production before converting it to a black and white photograph. This process is much different from shooting a roll of BW film where the photographer is never introduced to color, as such, their interpretation is purer, (or unbiased) towards the BW print upon development. (We see this conflict in every PSA Mono critique group: …" does everyone like the color or my BW version better?").
Alternatively, the (Film) photographer who chooses and wants to capture subjects as a black and white rendering does so without questioning or engaging the scene in color: their choosing a color version over capturing a BW one is not part of the equation or conversation. In my opinion, today's digital photographer needs to disconnect from the color original as soon as the BW version has been created, in an attempt to practice a purer engagement with the BW rendering. Thank you, everyone!
Photographer Lance A. Lewin (Admin for Group 87 General and 83 Mono)
Visualizingart.com
Posted: 10/24/2020 16:19:22
When we view the world around us our eyes and mind work together in a process that is quick and efficient at first, we spend little time discerning between individual objects (including both light and shadow, color and texture) when deciding…" oh, what a beautiful scene or view or architectural skyline" …we simply 'take in the whole'…and immediately interpret what we are viewing is something of immense interest. The BW photograph, and as important or relevant in this discussion, black and white Cinema, allow our senses to work in a similar fashion: upon viewing these BW images (or videos) we very quickly digest the content and form an interpretation. We are not transfixed on color objects and/or artifacts that can interfere with the normal eye and mind collaboration we rely on in everyday life.
Successful photographs are ones that can reveal its Gestalt; where interpretation of the whole is more expressive (interesting or seems to "prick" the viewer, as Roland Barthes so eloquently coined in 1980) than the artworks individual details. Many BW interpretations help reveal a subject more completely, maybe even more emotionally then its multi-color alternatives.
Nowadays, (as a consequence of the Digital Photography revolution) everything captured is rendered first as a color image - this initial color rendering is unique in its influential slant: we are dictated to interpret the color image first - even edit the color image in post-production before converting it to a black and white photograph. This process is much different from shooting a roll of BW film where the photographer is never introduced to color, as such, their interpretation is purer, (or unbiased) towards the BW print upon development. (We see this conflict in every PSA Mono critique group: …" does everyone like the color or my BW version better?").
Alternatively, the (Film) photographer who chooses and wants to capture subjects as a black and white rendering does so without questioning or engaging the scene in color: their choosing a color version over capturing a BW one is not part of the equation or conversation. In my opinion, today's digital photographer needs to disconnect from the color original as soon as the BW version has been created, in an attempt to practice a purer engagement with the BW rendering. Thank you, everyone!
Photographer Lance A. Lewin (Admin for Group 87 General and 83 Mono)
Visualizingart.com
Posted: 10/24/2020 16:19:22
I agree.
I have found with practice to identify subjects that are inherently best rendered as monochromes. In my opinion these generally have strong graphic qualities that far outweigh the color qualities. Nevertheless, I have found that some viewers prefer the color versions. It’s all very personal. Posted: 10/24/2020 18:54:14
I have found with practice to identify subjects that are inherently best rendered as monochromes. In my opinion these generally have strong graphic qualities that far outweigh the color qualities. Nevertheless, I have found that some viewers prefer the color versions. It’s all very personal. Posted: 10/24/2020 18:54:14
With digital cameras, it is a good black and white jpeg only to practice seeing on black and white to help avoid the influence of color during the self education process and sometimes for the pure joy of learning how to see that way. Posted: 10/24/2020 21:12:43
That's interesting, Lance. I recall in my earlier years of photography, about 50 years ago, I did mainly mono due to cost considerations. I bought a "pan viewing filter", which was a deep purple piece of glass about 2" square, which aimed to help you "see" in mono.
(For anyone younger reading this, "pan" here is short for "panchromatic" ie film which responded to the whole visible spectrum, as distinct from "orthochromatic" film which did not respond to the red end of the visible spectrum and so reds came out black).
Anyway, it was a crude tool, but it helped and I used it. Alas I must have sold it when my first phase of photography (pre digital) ended about 20 years ago.
However now we have digital cameras with a mono setting! I can't speak for all cameras, but suspect they will be similar to my Olympus ones. I usually take RAW only, but if I set it to take RAW and jpg, setting mono in the main menu (Shooting menu 1 / Picture mode if you are an Olly user), then it saves a JPG as mono, and also a RAW file. The latter is seen in mono on the camera screen (ie in replay mode) because the EXIF has had that preference stored in it, but the RAW file itself is unaltered of course. So you get the best of all worlds - the viewfinder is in mono, the jpg is in mono, the RAW tries to look like it's mono (and even my various photo viewers show the RAW in mono). But if I open the RAW file in Affinity (and I guess other image processors) it comes up in full colour, it has not been altered. So I have the option of taking the camera's mono JPG or to process my own mono via the RAW file. Plus visualisation of the scene in mono, as recommended! I have one of my user presets set up on my cameras for mono to take advantage of this.
IN comparison, the OM1ii has two mono modes in the ART filter collection (grainy film 1 and 2) but this only saves as jpgs with this filter applied, so I don't use it. Posted: 10/25/2020 04:01:26
(For anyone younger reading this, "pan" here is short for "panchromatic" ie film which responded to the whole visible spectrum, as distinct from "orthochromatic" film which did not respond to the red end of the visible spectrum and so reds came out black).
Anyway, it was a crude tool, but it helped and I used it. Alas I must have sold it when my first phase of photography (pre digital) ended about 20 years ago.
However now we have digital cameras with a mono setting! I can't speak for all cameras, but suspect they will be similar to my Olympus ones. I usually take RAW only, but if I set it to take RAW and jpg, setting mono in the main menu (Shooting menu 1 / Picture mode if you are an Olly user), then it saves a JPG as mono, and also a RAW file. The latter is seen in mono on the camera screen (ie in replay mode) because the EXIF has had that preference stored in it, but the RAW file itself is unaltered of course. So you get the best of all worlds - the viewfinder is in mono, the jpg is in mono, the RAW tries to look like it's mono (and even my various photo viewers show the RAW in mono). But if I open the RAW file in Affinity (and I guess other image processors) it comes up in full colour, it has not been altered. So I have the option of taking the camera's mono JPG or to process my own mono via the RAW file. Plus visualisation of the scene in mono, as recommended! I have one of my user presets set up on my cameras for mono to take advantage of this.
IN comparison, the OM1ii has two mono modes in the ART filter collection (grainy film 1 and 2) but this only saves as jpgs with this filter applied, so I don't use it. Posted: 10/25/2020 04:01:26
I see the occasional post of the original images along with the processed monochrome image to be instructive. I believe it can aid in the process of learning to see in black and white. Some times I prefer the monochrome image and other times I conclude that the image is not well-suited to a monochrome treatment. The exploration of why an image appears better suited to color or monochrome is the instructive part. I would not discourage our members from including the original images for comparison when there is a point to be made. It can also be helpful to appreciate the editing work that was done to create the monochrome image. Posted: 10/25/2020 20:37:12
Hi Jerry and thank you for this feedback.
Indeed, the color original is perfect for instructional purposes related to converting color to BW.
As it relates to "learning" to see in BW, I still feel is not necessarily a "skill set" one needs to be worried or become anxious to learn: again, and referencing what I stated previously, we first need to learn the process of Visualization, that is to learn to search and see engaging subjects/scenes.
Through the progress of capturing great compositions the photographer will easily learn what to "expect" in a BW rendering when hiking up to a scene.
In post-production there are a wide array of tools that aid in the transformation and "creativity" form Color to Black & White for the artist, much like some of the tools/techniques used in the dark room, including mild to extreme Dodge & Burning, for just one example.
Posted: 10/26/2020 09:06:14
Indeed, the color original is perfect for instructional purposes related to converting color to BW.
As it relates to "learning" to see in BW, I still feel is not necessarily a "skill set" one needs to be worried or become anxious to learn: again, and referencing what I stated previously, we first need to learn the process of Visualization, that is to learn to search and see engaging subjects/scenes.
Through the progress of capturing great compositions the photographer will easily learn what to "expect" in a BW rendering when hiking up to a scene.
In post-production there are a wide array of tools that aid in the transformation and "creativity" form Color to Black & White for the artist, much like some of the tools/techniques used in the dark room, including mild to extreme Dodge & Burning, for just one example.
Posted: 10/26/2020 09:06:14
Thread Title: What is Monochrome Photography?
What is considered monochrome photography? Here are some interesting webpage sources about monochrome photography that includes single color variations in addition to tradition Sepia, B&W, Cynotype, etc.:
1. https://photographyicon.com/monochromatic/
2. https://weburbanist.com/2008/11/30/monotone-monochrome-photography/
3. https://digital-photography-school.com/use-monochrome-color-photography/
4. For added nuance see this: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-vector/monochromatic-color-wheel-scheme-theory-vector-747016036 Posted: 09/07/2020 13:01:39
1. https://photographyicon.com/monochromatic/
2. https://weburbanist.com/2008/11/30/monotone-monochrome-photography/
3. https://digital-photography-school.com/use-monochrome-color-photography/
4. For added nuance see this: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-vector/monochromatic-color-wheel-scheme-theory-vector-747016036 Posted: 09/07/2020 13:01:39
Thread Title: What is considered monochrome photography?
Interesting stuff, John. I hadn't really considered this style to be monochrome, as I tend see mono and "black and white" as synonymous due to my darkroom background I suppose. As this shows, they are not! So I suppose I can rationalise, black and white is black through shades of grey to white, whereas monochrome can be black through shades of red (or any other colour) to white.
I've been experimenting in Affinity, it's quite easy to do. So next month, I'll post one!
Posted: 09/09/2020 01:43:07
I've been experimenting in Affinity, it's quite easy to do. So next month, I'll post one!
Posted: 09/09/2020 01:43:07
Cool...we will look forward to that. I have done various sepia and cyan colors for effect, but not often. I will think about images that might lend themselves to this type of presentation, too. Posted: 09/09/2020 09:06:35
Drat, I forgot for October. Must try harder for November! Posted: 10/25/2020 04:58:20
Thread Title: Monochrome Creation with On1
Here is a video about monochrome creation I received from ON1. I thought it worth sharing: https://www.on1.com/videos/emulating-greatness-with-black-white/?utm_campaign=Engage_emulating_greatness_with_B%2526W_8-20&utm_source=Master_All&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Greatness-A Posted: 08/07/2020 10:19:21