Colour or Black & White

[Peter Ryan]

As usual, Ryan, you are spot on with your critique. Losing the highlights in the glasses helps to avoid distractive moments. I did give it a bit more work dodging in the hair highlights and a bit more burning in the shawl shadows as well.

Much better Chris without the highlights in the glasses. Well done.

[Peter Ryan]

Thanks everyone for your thoughts. I do appreciate the time you have taken.

When I read each one I can see and understand what you are saying and I think yes B&W and then when I read the next I think yes colour.

I personally feel there is more depth to the colour shot and a softness but I somehow want to make this work in B&W.

I think size will matter here and when I print it to A3 size I think one will stand out. I might just have to print both and see what happens.

Many thanks.

[Ruddle]

B&W Peter, definitely. The color in the shot is somewhat lackluster and if you boost it, it may look too processed and unnatural. Monochrome will pop all of the natural and beautiful lines and texture. I have started using Silver Efex Pro by Nik Software and really love the control over B&W. Below is a very quick edit. I think boosting the structure (in SEP) or simply even the contrast a little in Photoshop would help to make it pop. But then again this is my personal taste in monochrome.

Very nice photo! My vote is for B&W!

[Peter Ryan]

Thanks Richard. I appreciate the re-work and inpput. I agree it needs more umph in B&W. I will let you all know how they both print.