There are times when the artistic approach is the better method for portraying a mood in an image. This monochrome, HDR image was interesting in color. But, the raw emotion portrayed by the artist was lessened by the color version of the photograph.

Last week I presented “A Case for Color” to say that true reality is portrayed in color and that other methods are simply artistic presentations of reality. Well, this post is dedicated to the artistic, non-realistic side of the equation. You might be thinking,” What about the “How Can That be Real” part.”  In the case of monochrome and the other options, duotone, tritone, split tone etc., I’ll just say that they are real, artistic, photographic expressions.

I know, there are still lots of photogs who feel that black and white is the only way to go. That’s fine!  :-)

Here are a few examples where the traditional color version of an image would be less effective in portraying the emotion of the scene.Storm on the Water – Silver monochrome

Some landscapes can be effectively presented in color and monochrome. I posted a North Carolina, beach image recently that can work either way.

Tryon Palace Cannon Fire - Sepia monochrome

Historic scenes like this seem to always work better in a warmer monochrome.

Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, DC – Duotone with blue and tan with light vignette

A touch of Elvis – Black and white monochrome

National Capital Trolley Museum – Pale yellow monochrome

Three guys at an old German farm - Sepia with light Vignette

Another historic scene – can’t beat sepia!

Chrome building in Clayton Missouri - Split toned for a warm and cool blend.

The top image is black and white monochrome from the Korean War Memorial in Washington, DC.