The Beauty of Black and White

Bride and groom in wedding attire walking towards each other on steps in front of Singapore National Gallery, captured in black and white for a moody and artistic shot. Taken by Chris Ling Photography for their pre-wedding photo shoot.

To me, black and white photography is the purest version of the art because, while colour is a crucial composition element, it can also be a bit of a distraction. When colour is removed, what's left are powerful compositional aspects like lines, shapes, texture, and contrast. It's so timeless and nostalgic that it evokes such strong feelings when you look at it.

ART

The use of black and white in photography has consistently garnered much attention; most of the world's most iconic photographs are monochromatic. Why is it so? This is primarily due to the photos' high artistic merit.

Black and white pre-wedding photo of a couple in wedding attire, with a cloudy sky in the background. The couple is holding hands and looking lovingly at each other. Captured by Chris Ling Photography.

EMOTION

Black and white images convey emotion, whereas colour photos depict what something looked like. To suggest that colour photographs lack emotion is not accurate. However, because different hues are associated with different feelings in different cultures, the photographer may find that the use of colour distracts from the intended message. Once the use of colour detracts from the intended meaning of a photograph, black and white is the only option.

Black and white pre-wedding photo of a couple in wedding attire, with the groom carrying the bride in front of him, both laughing joyfully against a waterfall background. Captured by Chris Ling Photography.

EMOTION THROUGH SIMPLICITY

When distractions surround the main subject of a photograph, it does not receive the attention it deserves. I'm sure you'll agree that this isn't a portrait. Because it concentrates on the subject, lights, shadows, and contrast, black and white photography perfectly fits wedding portraits and thus, the DNA of my photography studio. Black and white photography is limited and therefore direct; it leaves room for emotions and drama.

Black and white pre-wedding photo of a couple running across a road outside Changi Airport. Groom pulling luggage, candid moment captured by Chris Ling Photography.

FOCUS ON COUPLES

My team and I understand that couples may like both options, therefore we are experienced enough to understand which imagery will be spot on in black and white.

At the end of day, our focus is to give you your best and capture your love in print.

By Chris Ling

Black and white candid pre-wedding photo of couple in wedding attire, groom holding roses above bride's head, capturing her joyful laughter. Photo by Chris Ling Photography
Chris Ling

Photographers from Singapore and Hong Kong

https://www.chrisling.com
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