The beauty of monochrome photos is breath-taking. They are timeless and nostalgic, and take you back to another era. Most digital cameras have a monochrome option or you can use Lightroom and Photoshop to convert colored photos into monochromes. But for the best result, you should use a camera which shoots only in monochrome. Check out the best monochrome digital cameras to click the most beautiful black and white phtographs:
Best monochrome digital cameras for B&W photos
Why is a monochrome camera better than a colored digital one
Digital cameras usually have color filters (by the process of demosaicing), which are laid over the sensor which captures full color images, but the filters interfere with sensor’s ability to capture full spectrum of light. This means that even though digital cameras can do a good job. The image will not be as good as when you use a monochrome camera.
If you want to practice black and white photography as an art form, then you should definitely invest in a good camera, which will let you olay with textures, shapes and shadows. If, however, you intend to be a professional, you would also need to use Photography Invoice Template & Receipt Maker for your work. Be prepared to spend a good amount of money though, as these cameras are quite expensive.
1. SIGMA SD1 MERRILL
Sigma has been in the photography world for 60 years and has made a name for itself as being one of the most innovative developers of camera systems and lenses. The Sigma SD1 Merrill is one of the best cameras for black and white photography through color conversion. That is, colored images can be shot and then converted into B&W.
Its 46 megapixel capture allows for sharp features. If you want, you can remove the color filter to make it fully black and white. The camera is splash proof, and does not let water and dust from getting in the camera. It’s also quite durable and one of the most reasonable priced on a budget.
2. SONY A6000 Monochrome
Sony needs no intorduction in the phtography world, and their Alpha series cameras has propelled them to the limelight, as these cameras have become the favorite for videographers, aspiring photographers and for those who want a camera on a budget. The A6000 has a 24 megapixel sensor, which exposes only UV Expandable ISO up to 51200, and an amazing autofocus which utilizes the 179 focal plane detection. You will get 11 fps shooting speed, 3 inch tilting LCD, electronic OLED viewfinder, and, as mentioned earlier, the price will not make as big a hole as some of the other cameras on this list. It’s one of the best monochrome digital cameras you can buy, especially if you’re just starting off.
3. HASSELBLAD 500C
There is no one remotely connected to the phtography who has not heard of the name Hasselblad. It is a classic camera, and the company has been manufacturing durable medium format film video camera easily. The 500C has 80mm Zeiss Planar CF lens which allows for the capture of landscapes, and other wide angle photos. The 6×6 cm size of the image is printed on 120 roll films which creates a feeling of nostalgia. The camera gives a lot of control and you can click any image you choose, and with the better light exposure, you can get very clear and sharp photos.
4. LEICA M MONOCHROM
Leica, the German manufacturer has created the best camera gear for more than a hundred years. Their M MONOCHROM is considered to be among the only ‘true’ monochrome digital cameras, and its countless features will make any mirrorless user. It has a fast processor and more than 2 GB buffer memory, faster sequential shooting, and a B&W semsor which allows you to view your attempts at black and white photography incredibly easily.
A high-res 24 megapixel sensor, capturing 35mm full-framed images, and as it also records in luminance value, you will see the 100% sharp photos which have enviable depth, resolution and clarity, which is much better than the color exposures. It has expandable ISO of 25,000 which makes the B&W sensors much better than the traditional DSLRs.
5. ROLLEI 35S
The Rollei is an amazing camera but the name is not really familiar among the masses. Their 35S compact full-frame 35mm has been around since 1965. It was apppreciated for its design, unique aesthetics and sharp image quality as well as the high affordability factor. It is one of the smallest 35mm cameras, and the HFT Sonnar 40mm and f/2.8 lens allows for the most aesthetically sound photos. If it’s the real vintage vibe you’re looking for, then this camera might be the one for you.
6. PHASE ONE XF IQ3 100MP ACHROMATIC
The reason why this camera is on the list is because this camera does not have the Bayer cfilter for color, so you can utilize the 101 megapixel CMOS sensor to your advantage. The light can pass through the lens is significant, giving you much more luminance control and your camera will capture the tiniest details, which your eye might miss. It is certainly one of the best digital cameras which is extremely light sensitive, and therefore one of the best monochrome digital cameras around.
7. ROLLEIFLEX 2.8 TYPE B TLR
The Type B looks like the heritage cameras of an earlier era, using a gigantic silhouette. This camera is very highy in demand by professionals and amateurs alike. It is known for the striking B&W photos it produces.
8. Nikon FM2N
Last but certainly not the least, the Nikon cameras are outstanding – they have made significant contribution to the photography world. From video camera to still cameras, they have several excellent cameras. The FM2N, first intorduced in 1982, has benn upgraded to accept all types of Nikon F lenses, and has a focal plane shutter which is capable of a stunning 1-1/4000 shutter speed.
Black/white phtotographs are in a class of their own. They are enchanting and the detail in the photos and the play of light makes them stand out even today.
