In Monochrome: Meet the Talents Behind the Best Black and White Photos
- The Artist Gallery Team
- May 21
- 6 min read
Behind every powerful black and white photograph is a story — not just within the frame, but also behind the lens. In this feature, we dive into the creative journeys of the talented photographers who stood out in our Black and White Photography Contest. From bold contrasts to quiet moments, their images captured more than just scenes — they revealed emotion, atmosphere, and depth through the timeless language of monochrome. Join us as we uncover the inspiration, techniques, and passion behind their award-winning career.
MICHIKO ÔTOMO
I am an amateur photographer currently based in Quebec City, Canada. Originally from Japan, where I studied fashion design, I have always been drawn to the creative and artistic side of my work.
My photography journey began when I picked up my first DSLR camera over 10 years ago. Through online tutorials from Japanese camera manufacturers and magazines, I learned the basics of photography, including camera settings, lens selection, and terminology.
As I delved deeper into the world of photography, I joined a local photography club in Quebec where I honed my skills in image processing and ways of expression, for example, black and white photography. Participating in local photo competitions has been an
incredible way to learn from others and grow as a photographer. While the Japanese photography scene is mostly led by large camera manufacturers, I found the Canadian one to be based on connections between people through local club activities. This contrast was an enriching experience for me. The opportunity to learn from different perspectives allowed me to broaden my creative horizons. While I still have much to learn, I'm excited to move beyond technical aspects and capture photos that are uniquely mine. Both fashion and photography share a common thread with human life, making them relatable and accessible art forms. Though I was initially drawn to nighttime photography due to time constraints during the day, this has led me to develop a specific interest in urban landscapes, and experimenting with flash photography outdoors.
This particular piece was captured during a snowstorm night using a camera flash and a wide-angle lens. The accidental imperfections left by snow falling on the lens, the lens distortion, and the monochromatic edit serve to express the harshness of the winter weather we often experience in Canada. Travelling is another passion of mine, and I often take holidays to explore new cities around the world. Seeking out interesting urban architecture, both in a nighttime and daytime setting, and experimenting with black and white photography has become my go-to approach in these destinations.
In 2021, I began participating in international photography competitions held in Europe and the United States, which has been an incredible experience. Since then, I've had the opportunity to showcase my work in exhibitions in Glasgow and Tokyo, both of which have been truly inspiring experiences.
ALLAN SYPHERS
My interest in photography began prior to my college education as an architect and my first camera was a vintage Kodak Pony that was given to me by a family friend. The camera required all manual settings including the use of a light meter, and it was with this camera that I began to understand the importance of light, and shutter and aperture settings.
While in college my interest in photography grew primarily because I found that architecture and photography had so many things in common; the most important one being light and how it is used to convey meaning, interpretation and intent. Compositional elements such as visual order, the hierarchical interplay of subject, form, pattern, shadow and others reinforced those intentions.
It was during this time that I purchased my first SLR camera, a Canon AE-1. Over the next few decades, my interest in photography grew and improved. Initially, I shot with slide film, then moved on to photo film and then digital imaging. My initial use of film educated me in the importance of not only the need for accurate camera settings but, more importantly, the need to compose the image as close to intended in the camera before the shutter is released.
Eventually, my preferred camera became Nikon and today I shoot with a Zf. For the most part I am self-taught, but my skills have been substantially improved through workshops in Washington State, New Mexico, Washington DC and Maine. Most of them were People and Street focused with variations of each.
As my knowledge and understanding of People and Street Photography grew I realized that this was the type of photography that resonated with me. Today, this is my primary genre. I’ve come to understand not only the types and considerations of this genre, but also the realization that many of my images reflect those things that I find connect with my past and my current sensitivities. Whether positive or negative, they are the collective manifestation of the experiences that have impacted my life the most.
I have been influenced by many of the great street photographers from the past and present. I believe that the more I become acquainted with their personal journeys and methods, and the more that I learn about the nuances of intention and aspirations of each, the more skilled and learned photographer I become.
I try to stay ‘seriously unstructured’ in my approach while maintaining a discipline that respects the craft and those around me. I continue to hone my skills through local and international competitions, with a reasonable degree of success, and am drawn to the urban setting whether small town or large city environments. The richness that can be found in any of these environments never ceases to raise my level of curiosity and appreciation for the rich tapestry of life that uniquely makes us who we are.
Many of my images can be found on my Facebook page, ‘Allan Syphers’.
JEFF BAUS
My journey into photography began in 2007, when I purchased my very first beginner camera using my very first salary. At the time, I didn’t know it would become such an important part of my life. I was simply curious, excited to explore the world around me in a new way. Like many beginners, I started with travel and landscape photography—capturing beautiful vistas and faraway places during my travels. It was a way to preserve memories, a visual diary of where I had been.
But it wasn’t until 2023 that something shifted. I found myself drawn more and more to the people I encountered during my travels, especially in Indonesia—a country I’ve come to love deeply. Its vibrant cultures, warm-hearted people, and rich traditions spoke to me in ways that landscapes alone could not. That year marked a turning point: I stepped into the world of portrait and environmental photography, and I haven’t looked back sinToday, I have a profound passion for conceptual and portrait photography. I strive to go beyond a beautiful image—to tell stories, to offer a glimpse into the lives and identities of the people I meet. My camera has become a bridge between cultures, a tool for connection. Through my work, I hope to share the beauty and diversity of Indonesia and its many communities with a wider audience. There is so much richness, dignity, and resilience in the everyday moments of life, and I feel honored every time someone lets me document theirs.
For me, photography is more than a creative outlet—it’s a way of seeing. It’s a means to capture and communicate stories that might otherwise go untold. When I’m photographing someone, especially in a portrait session, I often find myself quietly humbled. I feel a deep appreciation toward those who open their world to me, even if just for a few minutes. There’s something powerful about seeing someone through the lens—looking into their eyes, witnessing their bare emotions, and feeling a moment of human connection.
I believe photography can bring us closer together. It allows us to empathize, to understand, and to celebrate our shared humanity.
If you’d like to follow more of my work or connect with me, you can find me on Instagram: @jb.photographie_89. I’m always happy to share stories, answer questions, or simply connect with fellow lovers of photography and culture.
Don't forget to take a look to our other open photo contests for more opportunities to showcase your skills and creativity. Explore them here: www.theartistgallery.art/open-contests.
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