MONOCHROME OR COLOR: WHY ARTISTS MUST CHOOSE
POISED AND READY Oregon Coast
In the age of digital photography, the choice between presenting an image in color or monochrome is more than a stylistic decision—it’s a statement of artistic intent. Yet, far too often, I see photographers hedging their bets by posting both versions of the same image and asking their audience, "Which one do you prefer?"
This practice, while seemingly harmless, does more damage than many realize. It dilutes your artistic voice and undermines the role of the artist as the one who creates meaning. Asking your audience to choose between versions sends an unspoken message: that your work is a product, customizable to taste, or worse, that you lack confidence in your own vision.
Even iconic artists have questioned their choices. Ansel Adams reinterpreted his prints over the years as his darkroom skills evolved, and that’s a natural part of artistic growth. But the difference lies in who makes the decision. Adams didn’t poll his audience—he refined his vision through introspection and mastery.
Think of Sebastião Salgado, whose monochrome images resonate with profound emotional depth. His unwavering commitment to black and white is not just a stylistic preference; it’s a declaration of his artistic intent. Salgado’s images transcend the idea of “choice” because they speak with clarity and conviction.
The lesson here isn’t about locking yourself into one approach, nor is it about abandoning experimentation. It’s about owning your decisions. When you ask others to choose for you, you avoid a critical step in your development as an artist: learning to trust yourself. Artistic clarity comes from making decisions, reflecting on them, and evolving through the process.
I’ve faced this dilemma myself, wondering whether an image would be stronger in color or monochrome. But every time I made the decision on my own—without asking others for validation—I felt my artistic voice grow stronger, even when I doubted the choice later.
Next time you’re torn between two versions of an image, stop and ask yourself: Which one feels truest to my vision? Then commit. You’ll learn far more from standing by your choice than by leaving it up to others.
Ultimately, your art is a reflection of your inner clarity. Commit to your choices, and let your work speak with conviction—it’s the only way to truly become the artist you were meant to be.
Side Note: Build Your Photographic Library:
Every photographer’s book collection should include Sebastião Salgado’s Genesis. It’s not just a collection of breathtaking images; it’s a masterclass in vision, storytelling, and the power of monochrome photography. If you don’t already have a book collection, Genesis is the perfect place to start!
