🖤 My Journey into Black & White Photography
- nikkikearns
- Jul 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 31
There's something timeless about black and white photography. While I've always been drawn to bold landscapes, vibrant skies, and coastal colours, stepping into the world of monochrome has opened up a completely new creative space for me.
Stripping it Back
Black and white photography removes the distraction of colour. It leaves you with the essence of a scene—texture, contrast, light, and emotion. This approach challenges me to look differently through the lens. I find myself slowing down and noticing subtle tones I might have otherwise missed.

Cotter Dam – A New Perspective
One of the first locations I explored with this approach was Cotter Dam. Known for its architectural symmetry and dramatic water flow, it became the perfect subject. Capturing the spillway in black and white allowed me to highlight the powerful repetition of the water steps, the play of shadows, and the stark contrast against the sky. It felt industrial and raw, yet rhythmic and beautiful.

Ducks in the Fog
Another unexpected black and white moment came on a foggy morning by the water. A flock of ducks slowly drifted through the fog, barely breaking the water's surface. The photo is almost silent—still, soft, and calm. I didn't plan it, but it became one of my favourite minimalist captures to date. It serves as a reminder that sometimes the most powerful photos are the quietest.
While this image isn't one of my most recent, revisiting it stirred something in me. It reminded me how much I love the quiet strength of black and white. This inspiration led me to start a new monochrome series beginning this weekend. Sometimes, the direction we need has been sitting in our archives all along.
What's Next?
This series isn't live on my website just yet, but it's coming. I'm carefully curating a small black and white print collection of Canberra that speaks to this journey: simplicity, mood, and the beauty of detail. If you want to be the first to know when these prints drop, sign up for my newsletter. I'll be sharing sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes stories, and a limited-time print offer.
The Beauty of Monochrome
Monochrome photography has a unique way of capturing emotions. It strips away the distractions of colour and allows the viewer to focus on the subject's essence. Each image tells a story, evoking feelings that might otherwise be lost in a sea of colour. I find that black and white photography often resonates deeply with viewers, inviting them to engage with the image on a more personal level.
Embracing the Journey
As I embark on this new series, I invite you to join me on this journey. Each photograph is a reflection of my experiences and emotions. I hope to inspire you to see the world through a different lens, one that appreciates the beauty in simplicity and the power of contrast.
Join the Conversation
I’d love to hear your thoughts on black and white photography. Have you ever tried it? What emotions does it evoke for you? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below. Your insights enrich this creative space and help us all grow as artists and enthusiasts.
A Call to Action
If you're excited about the upcoming series, don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter. You’ll be the first to know about the new prints and exclusive offers. Let's explore the beauty of Canberra and the NSW coast together, one monochrome image at a time.
In this digital age, it’s easy to overlook the beauty of simplicity. I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate the world around you. Whether it’s a stunning landscape or a quiet moment by the water, there’s beauty everywhere.
I look forward to sharing this journey with you and hope you find inspiration in the art of black and white photography. Together, let’s celebrate the timeless elegance of monochrome.
---
If you want to explore more about photography, check out my website for tips and inspiration.
Comments