B&W conversions-cc

Luvmybear · #1 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 06:57 PM

I am very new to the conversion process. I found a method that I like on some photos but I don't think it always works. I was hoping I could get some input on them (too dark, not enough contrast, etc.)

Also, what do you all look for in a nice black and white photo? I feel like I can look at someone else's work and say whether or not I like it but when I am using my own images I second guess myself a lot.

BTW, these are all in B&W because I forgot to change my white balance before shooting (doh!) and the colors look horrible!

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Thanks!

sugarpea013! · #2 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 07:10 PM

I have no cc because I am JSO, but wanted to say these look pretty darn good to me! I did the same thing the other day...didn't change my white balance and they have such a funky hue. POOOOP. What camera/lens are you using if you don't mind me asking?

MonicaD · #3 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 09:58 PM

these are great conversions. that is exactly what i look for in a b&w. nice work!

Luvmybear · #4 (**permalink**) 05-13-2008, 10:53 PM

Sugarpea- I am using a Rebel xti with a 50 mm 1.8 lens. I think I'd like to look for a zoom lens, too.

Thanks for the nice feedback

jilltan · #5 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 04:54 AM

These look pretty good! Personally I like a little more contrast, but that is just me.

evemomma · #6 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 06:18 AM

Your focus is nice and sharp on these. I think these conversion seem a bit blown in spots to me. Not sure if that was SOOC or in converting. Watch for finger/hand chops when you're composing your pics. I know it's so hard to do with a moving kiddo - but the results are worth it.

I think I choose to convert my pics to B&W when:

a) the color is off
b) the color in the background is distracting

or if it's not a mess-up conversion...
c) when there is an emotion captured, with interesting light and shadow - I find I like these types of B&W's the best

I like all sorts of conversions too...dark ones, light ones, grainy ones, vanilla - whater suits the mood of the picture best.

Luvmybear · #7 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 07:27 AM

Eve- thanks for the detailed feedback. These were definitely blown in some spots SOOC as the little booger was moving so fast I could adjust my settings fast enough! I really need to work on moving faster but I'm sure that will come with time.

I have been trying very hard to focus on not chopping off any limbs while shooting but I admit it is much harder than it looks! I definitely need more practice.

Leila- I am going to play around later with adding some more contrast. Thanks for the suggestion!

imamom · #8 (**permalink**) 05-14-2008, 05:38 PM

moving faster cerainly does come with time...or what I do sometimes (like, I'm far from experienced so take it with a grain of salt) I meter for the shade (for example) and only fire when they (meaning my kids) are in the shade areas that way I'm not switching my settings back and forth missing things! just an idea but it works in some situations!

as for CC on your pics...they do look nice (cute captures for sure)...I think they could actually be a bit darker and more contrast but I'm new to converting too...it seems very hard for some reason...

I think that lots of line and texture make great b/w's too!