How I Decide Whether an Image Should Be in Black and White or Colour

When I return from a trip and begin going through my images, one of the first decisions I make is whether a photo should stay in colour or be processed in black and white. As you know by now I process 99% in black and white so I am actively looking for those images that I think would look great in black and white. This is not just a technical step. It is part of how I shape the mood and meaning of the final image and my identity as a photographer.

Not Every Image Works in Black and White

Let's be clear... black and white can be powerful, but it is not the right choice for every photograph. Some images rely heavily on colour to carry the scene. A fiery sky, the rich gold of late afternoon light, or the subtle tones in an animal’s coat might all be lost in monochrome. When colour is central to the feeling of the moment, I keep it in colour or simply don't process the image :)

But sometimes, colour becomes a distraction. If the composition is strong and the light falls in a way that reveals texture and shape, black and white might be the better choice. I do not convert images just to be different. I do it when I feel it is the right thing to do and when I think the image will be a stronger one.

Camargue horses on a beach in souther France.

Light, Shape, and Stillness

The images I choose to process in black and white usually have certain things in common. The light is soft or directional. The shapes are clean and well defined. The subject is often calm or still. I look for a sense of presence, of quiet connection between the animal and the landscape.

For example, in my photograph "Soul to Soul", it wasn’t the colour that mattered. It was the posture of the lioness, the stillness of her reflection, and the quiet in that moment. Removing the colour helped focus attention on the expression, the tension, and the time it took to get that shot.

Texture and Contrast

I think black and white works very well when there is strong contrast or interesting texture. The wrinkles of an elephant’s skin, the fur of a lion, or the bark of an old tree all come through more clearly without colour competing for attention.

Monochrome simplifies the frame and lets form take over. When I feel the structure of the scene is the strongest part, I lean toward black and white.

A young male lion takes in the view that may one day be his.

Emotion and Tone

In my humble opinion, black and white makes the image clearer. It strips away distractions and draws attention to the subject. This works well in portraits. A primate’s face or a leopard resting in a tree can feel more direct without colour. It helps the viewer focus on the expression rather than the background.

No Formula

There is no rule I follow. Sometimes I try both versions and let the image decide. But in most cases, I know early on. If I look at the raw file and feel that colour adds nothing or even takes something away, that is usually a sign to go black and white.

Although important, it's not just about what looks dramatic. It's about choosing what best reflects the moment. Sometimes black and white does that more clearly, especially in emotional black and white wildlife portraits or fine art black and white animal prints. That's what I try to focus on.