How to Dress for a Black & White Photo
Black-and-white photography has a certain drama that color photography does not possess. And the techniques for composition by the photographer differ from those used for color photography. While in the latter, photographers can use colors to guide the eye to different areas of a portrait and to create contrast, black-and-white photography must rely on textures, value contrasts between dark and light and shapes. When dressing for a black-and-white photo, these principles apply.
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Instructions
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Choose an outfit with high contrast to your skin if you want your face to be the focal point. It does not matter if the colors in your outfit match so long as the shades are similar.
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Pay close attention to the shapes and profile you are creating. For example, a bubble skirt has a far different shape than a pair of tights.
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Choose clothing that has an interesting texture instead of clothing that has a pattern. Textures are better than patterns for creating interesting black-and-white photographs. For example, try using crushed velvet or fabric with embroidery work.
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Tips & Warnings
Use makeup to darken or lighten features of the face, not to color them.
A bold or unique outfit might draw attention from your face, so stick with simpler items if the clothing is not the focus.
