Black and White Landscape Photography

The photographic genre I chose to undertake is black and white landscape photography. I aimed to create a body of work that although influenced by other photographers within the same genre, possessed certain aesthetic qualities that I naturally created throughout the experience. While researching various photographers for inspiration, I wanted to look at artists who were both well respected in their field but also those not necessarily well known. The common element I wanted to find was the body of work had to be inspiring to me.

My portfolio has been inspired by a few different photographers and techniques used in landscape photography, including Michael Knapstein, David Brookover, Ansel Adams and Michael Kenna. I wanted to take myself out of my comfort zone, removing myself from my usual style of photography I do professionally to learn and experience something new. 

Photographers from all eras are influenced and inspired at least to some degree by other artists. Black and white landscape photography is not a new concept, and photographers at the top of their field have produced work that not only inspires other artists but allows those wanting to critically analyse and interpret photography, a great reference to educate others. Well known landscape photographers have already established a reputation for being innovative and creating great works of art and these principles and techniques were important considerations for me. 

My main inspiration came from Michael Kenna, who is an English photographer best known for his black and white landscapes. Kenna studied at the Banbury School of Art and then onto the London College of Printing where he specialised in photography images (Michael Kenna – 819 Artworks, Bio & Shows on Artsy 2019). What I found when researching Kenna’s work is his unique use of atmosphere, contrast and composition. Kenna’s relationship and resonance with natural landscapes are evident when you view his work. The tonality and form he can capture produce beautiful black and white images. 

A common theme amongst the photographers I researched was the use of a square format. I found this intriguing as one would imagine landscape images suit a wider landscape format. What I found after deciding to adopt the square format myself is that the focal point becomes very important. With the broader format, there’s more scenery, more of the surroundings, more information the viewer takes in. While the composition is still essential, I found with the square format, balance, negative space and simplicity provided a unique perspective.

The other thing I wanted to explore is the use of black and white in my landscape images. Some images work in black and white, and some don’t. I wanted to create a series of images that emphasised shape, lines, texture and tonal contrast, which is prevalent in black and white photography (Gibson 2013).

Patterns, shapes, atmosphere, drama and mystery are all elements of Michael Kenna’s work and his simplicity combined with clarity, and use of negative space allows viewers to have a unique interpretation of his work (Michael Kenna – Artists – Peter Fetterman 2019). I wanted to incorporate similar techniques of combining natural and man-made elements, being the main focal point.

After critically analysing the concepts and theory behind various landscape photographers I can see the relationship of natural elements, tonality and form. 

The interpretive nature of some fine art landscape photography is something that drew me to this particular genre. As a professional photographer who hasn’t delved into the realm of landscape photography, I was excited about many aspects of this genre. The early morning long drives scouting locations combined with the loneliness was something I surprisingly enjoyed. There is something about capturing your vision and seeing what you are recording that no one else is experiencing that is quite addictive. Researching different photographers was also something I enjoyed. Being exposed to various artists with common elements, I still found there was a lot of originality in different portfolios. Capturing patterns, atmosphere and different compositions provided a very different approach to my photography.  For this series of photographs, I used a Nikon D850 DSLR, Manfrotto tripod, cable release remote and a 10 stop neutral density filter for the long exposures. Landscape photography has provided me with a new found excitement, and I am inspired to progress with this genre of photography.