Black and white photography has been enhanced by the use of filters for years. When colored filters are attached to the camera lens, they alter the tonal value of a black and white photograph. Skies can become more saturated, foliage can become darker and the overall look of the photograph will be altered. Contrary to some misconceptions, a colored filter will not add color to a black and white photograph.
Instructions
1. Purchase the correct size of orange filter for your camera. Look at the end of your camera lens for a filter size notation. A circle with a line through it, followed by a number ending in "mm" will give you your filter size. Different lenses require differently sized filters.
2. Choose which type of orange filter you want to try. There are varying gradations of orange filters on the market. Read the packages to get a feel for the type of effect it will have on the overall photograph. Orange filters will darken the sky in outdoor photographs. The level of darkening will be determined by the hue of orange you select.
3. Attach the orange filter to your camera lens. When used with an SLR camera, the filter may attach with a threaded mount. Some filter systems use a holder attachment that will allow you to slide in multiple filters.
4. Turn off the auto focus system on your camera. Some camera systems can be tricked by the use of a filter, and not auto focus 100%. It is best to manually adjust your focus when using an orange filter.
5. Take pictures of things that aren't orange. When using an orange filter, avoid subject matter that is predominantly orange, such as fall foliage and pumpkins. It will appear washed out in the final black and white photos. Use a orange filter to photograph blue sky, green foliage and medium tones.
Tags: orange filter, your camera, black white, camera lens, auto focus, black white photograph
