Studio Workshops Online – Live and Interactive via ZOOM
• 22-23 April 2023 (AEST)
This intermediate-advanced workshop explores the magnificence of the B&W image in an age of digital reproduction. Specialised digital photographic processes, materials and techniques combine to significantly expand the range of the fine B&W photograph and its creative tradition. This includes aspects of B&W camera craft, colour conversions, the processing and editing of B&W files, and their rendering as stunningly beautiful archival B&W inkjet pigment prints of the highest quality. To facilitate this, where ever possible we will also remotely create a stunningly accurate and incredibly beautiful custom B&W printer profile for each attendee’s printer and favourite paper following the workshop. Specific topics that have been covered in recent workshops include:
B&W Digital Capture
• The history of B&W fine art photography
• Luminosity formulae – how is RGB converted to B&W
• Pre-visualisation (Wratten #90 Filter)
• Monitoring camera exposure and histograms
• B&W Capture Factors
B&W Processing
• Comparing RAW B&W processing software and methods
• Calibrating RAW B&W conversions to in-camera B&W JPEGS
• B&W processing questions
• B&W contrast filters
• Classic B&W renderings and effects
B&W Editing and Toning
• Dodging and burning strategies – jumping values
• Digital intensification and reduction – local contrast
• Local contrast enhancement masking
• Split toning – darkroom equivalents
• Multi-layered toning techniques
B&W Ink and Paper Combinations
• Commercial Papers: Resin coated & micro-porous media
• Art Papers: Cotton rag & alpha cellulose papers
• Photography Papers: Baryta and non-Baryta papers
• Mono, duo, tri and quad-tone (black) inks vs CcMmYKk + inksets
• Narrow gamut software and hardware controls
B&W Digital Printing
• Matching B&W images to papers and inksets
• Epson Advanced B&W vs Canon Black and White Photo
• Specialist B&W printer drivers (QuadTone RIP)
• Printing B&W images through a RIP (MegaRIP)
• Creating and working with B&W printer profiles
B&W Print Enhancing and Presenting
• Expanding and refining print luminosity
• Ink inconstancy, optical brighteners and fluorescence
• Print viewing and working environments
• Surround adaptation and print to screen calibrations
• The archival durability and stability of B&W prints
At the heart of this workshop our attendees’ interests and questions focus our engagement as we explore the genealogy of the B&W image, and extend its tradition through an innovative and sensitive integration of digital technologies. Video conferencing and remote desktop software enable the entire B&W digital workflow from capture and processing to editing and printing to be critically investigated. Fine B&W prints as finished works of art are a major outcome of this workshop, so attendees are also encouraged to share their own images, findings and successes as needed.
The workshop is also supported by a resource rich website including detailed course notes, videos, and images.
Venue: Interactive Broadcast from Les Walkling’s Studio, Melbourne
Duration: 10.00am – 1.00pm Saturday and Sunday (AEST/AEDT)
Class Size: Average class size of 5
Cost: AUS $330 including GST per person
Bookings: Email or Phone +61 4 38 59 00 93
Updated 26 November 2022