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Despite all the advancements in imaging—including the advent of color and the now dominance of digital—there’s something about classic black-and-white photography that will never go out of style. That’s not to say that just because a photo has been shot or converted to monochrome it’s guaranteed to be a great photo. The choice to go black and white must have some meaningful relationship to the subject matter or scene to be effective. For this assignment, we asked readers to submit their best black-and-white photos that use the dramatic impact of monochrome in a powerful way. Our six favorite images here certainly show just that.

One key challenge when processing our images is to achieve maximum dynamic range to enhance details in shadows, highlights, and everything in between. This is important with color images and perhaps even more critical when processing b&w photos for maximum impact.

The b-grip, made in Italy by CPtech, provides a strong safe support for your DSLR. The base attaches to your waist belt (or to the belt provided), while the quick-release plate attaches to the camera tripod socket. A quick release mechanism provides instant access to the camera when required. A simple safety system prevents accidental release of the camera. An additional supplied safety cord can be deployed for extra peace of mind.

b-grip's broad base spreads the weight of the camera making it extremely comfortable to wear. Unlike a conventional neck strap, the camera is held firmly in place and cannot swing about, reducing the chances of damage. b-grip lets you mount the camera either lens-down or lens-up. The lens-up position provides a third hand when changing lenses. A supplied dust and rain cover provides additional protection if required.

For those of you who have never worked in medium format, trust me, there is a difference you can see and feel. It’s no wonder that photographers such as Douglas Sonders choose a medium format camera system over a DSLR for the bulk of their work. And in Sonders’s case, his workhorse camera system is Phase One.

Fast and precise focus is a primary goal of all photographers regardless of the type of images they shoot. Today's your lucky if back-button focus isn't part of your repertoire, because this tutorial from First Choice Photo will bring you up to speed on this game-changing technique in the next 13 minutes.

Backdrop Outlet is hosting free lighting and posing seminars this weekend, June 6-8, with world-famous photographers Art Ketchum and Robert Lino. In addition, the company is having a warehouse sale in conjunction with the event with huge savings on muslins, props, canvas and lights, reflectors and stands. Every item they carry will be on sale at the event. The event will be held in San Diego, CA. For information, registration and directions visit their announcement site at: http://www.backdropoutlet.com/event/index.htm.

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