Colour or Mono
How do I choose?
During my talks, I often take two versions of the same Print. One in colour and one in mono or toned. The paper is chosen to match the image and the correct emotion or textures of the image.
As part of my processing, I work in colour, one of the last things I do is make a new layer and process for a mono image. I compare the two and see which one I like best. When choosing an Exhibition or Competition Image I usually only use one, either colour or mono. I like to get as many images out there as I can, not simply use images that do well. I find judges simply get bored with them if you don't.
Which would you choose?
Three Roses
Still Life
COLOUR
A very simple and delicate image. The straight composition is added to by delicate coloured pink. This creates impact. Good mix of colours.
MONO
Taking the colour from the flowers creates a new images altogther. It has a more Victorian feeling the shapes and tones work well.
The Roost
Creative Landscape
COLOUR
This brings back memories of a very hot day out in a place I’ve never been before. The colours of the sea and sky add the extra dimension to the shot. You Can almost hear the birds flying overhead.
MONO
The Mono has a more contrast giving a eerie feel. The forgotten happiness drained away leaving on the darkness of the waves. The lighten clouds help the composition.
Knife & Fork on Books
Still Life
COLOUR
The colour has the warmth and shows an distant dream of the owners. The bone handles matching the old pages of the book. Many forgotten meals books read.
MONO
The Mono has more depth with the darker shadows and diagonal composition stands out more. The sone has had several awards but is it the best?
The Guildhall
London
COLOUR
I was wandering around onion on a wet day and found the Guildhall. It’s mazing Gallery was the end of my destination. crossing the yard I spotted the to tiny figures which gives scale. The colours are taken from the stone work of the building.
MONO
There’s a quirkiness to this as the mono reviews other aspects of the image. You’re immediately drawn to the dark door in the centre and pulled in. Does the mono take away too much?
The Tulips
Still Life
COLOUR
Two contrast images here. The bright yellows of the tulips and greens of the stems certainly grabs your attention with the unusual composition.
MONO
This is much more gentle image with the dark stem pull you up through the centre of the image. Th toning in the mono brings out the traditional feel in it.
One of them has had a gold medal.
