Black-and-white photography is a creative choice, not a backup plan! We need to change our mindset and treat monochrome with the respect it deserves

A white bird glides near a steep, rocky cliff covered in patches of grass, set against a deep black background.

I still remember when I first used black-and-white as a crutch. I took a street photo with good composition and atmosphere, but the clash of colors ruined it.

Neon lights were too bright, signs competed, and a bright jacket was too distracting. Frustrated, I chose the easy fix – removing the color. Instantly, the photo looked cleaner, moodier, and more 'artsy,' or so I convinced myself.