The use of black and white photography throughout time is a technique that has many different meanings behind its method. In earlier times black and white photography was a must, photographs did not have the technical capability to be created in clear, variegated colours. Today we know this is not the case, colour is used to bring out life, reality or, conversely, fantasy to a still portrait. And yet it is not always used… what is the meaning behind black and white images in photography?
Within this shoot taken by Sergey Korolkov the first thing that we can see that the artists has by no means opted for a sense disorder or disorientation; the photographs are detailed and defined, with shadow and light predominating the lines and form of the model in the photographs. ‘Form’ being the operative word in this point. Form is the shape and outline of an object/person/entity; Korolkov ensures the clarity of the model, her form and what she is wearing by using only black and white. By presenting the viewer with a beautiful form you are drawn in almost unreachable world of flawlessness and elegance.
Which of course is the second key element that comes through in this shoot. The styling of Inna Bondarenko and the hair and make-up by Yana Shell has been done with significant sophistication, elegance and refinement. The classic contrast of black and white is perfectly complimented by the model, Julia Suntsova’s voluptuous appearance, her chick attire and the endless motion of femininity and sexuality. The emotion behind the photographs is unhidden and raw, therefore making the shadows of dark and light the perfect window to portray them through.
To view the full shoot by Sergey Korolkov (sergeykorolkov.com) click on the thumbnails.