In this week's readings, Michael Freeman discusses removing the distraction of color from an image to allow the viewer to focus on the subtleties of tone and tonal transitions. He discusses consciously choosing color or B&W based on the best presentation for a particular image.
When I saw this scene, I liked it but knew immediately it had be in black & white. The kayaker was wearing a bright orange jacket which clashed with the peaceful scene. By converting to B&W, I was able to remove the distraction of the jacket color and also emphasize the subtleties of the tones. To me, the forms of the trees and their reflections become much more prominent in the B&W version. The mood of the image is also changed and improved in B&W vs. the color.
I processed this in LR & Silver FX. In Silver FX, I used an orange filter which caused the orange jacket to look white. Without the filter the jacket was a medium gray color which blended too much with the trees and reflections. I liked the way the filter made the kayaker more noticeable but not distracting to the overall scene.
It was suggested that we post the color image for a comparison. I have added it to my Extras album.
I like this one better too. You inspired me to order the book from the library. Great explanation of the different silver EFEX filters and why you chose the one you did
Thank you for your instructive share - very enlightening. And yes, I love your B & W choice over the color version (even though that pop of orange is kinda cool). Fav!
This is superb in black and white. It brings out all of the lines and forms as you said without the distractions of color. Very nice image and reflections.
I'm learning loads from this book club challenge - from what I'm doing myself and what others are doing. I completely agree with you that this is better in black and white and with the reasons why this is so. Beautiful shot as well. Fav.
What a brilliant example of how a shot can be enhanced with bw processing. And you have done a lovely job of that processing. This is great Lisa.
(Linda, @seven , Mondays)
Awesome job and example! Love the white of the shirt here, for sure, as it does draw the eye but not as intensely as that orange. Amazing details in the sky/clouds here too. Cool!
(Linda, @seven , Mondays)