Black & White

"Time eventually positions most photographs, even the most amateurish, at the level of art." 

- Susan Sontag

In photography, there is an ongoing debate about whether black/white photography or color photography is more effective. Ultimately it comes down to the subject and I believe that in the field of archaeology, black and white photos have a certain advantage. Archaeology is often a romanticized field because of the mystery involved and black and white photography is a striking way to further convey these notions. Sometimes the vibrancy of color photos can take away from the seriousness of a subject, while black and white creates a somber tone in photos that can often be associated with the pasts of ancient civilizations. In an editorial in Antiquity magazine, Carver states, "We might leaf rapidly through a glossy magazine of perfect nothings, but these old documents have the whiff of research." Black and white photography preserves the romantic or mysterious aspect of the past that is often lost in bright colors. Black and white photos evoke a certain "awe" factor because of the idea that they are connected to the past. Carver captures this notion as black and white photography evoking "the nostalgia of a lost first love". Furthermore, this notion reminded my of the quote by Sontag as black and white photographs give the allusion of being from the past, they become more beautiful and mysterious - an art form.

In these photos of the "The Pyramid Of Giza" in Egypt, there is a distinct difference in reaction of a viewer between the color photograph and the black and white photograph. The color one is striking and the vivid colors make the pyramid appear to come alive. The black and white photograph, very obviously taken many many years ago, has a more historic feel to it. It makes me feel as if I have traveled back in time to the pyramids in the past. It encourages the viewer to think about exactly how old and well-constructed these structures truly are. I like the comparison between the past and the present and how this is further instituted by the use of the black and white photography.

Overall, I think it is important for archaeologists to understand the ways they can improve their capabilities in portraying visuals regarding their findings to the public. If black and white photography evokes a more serious tone and that what they are trying to reach to their viewers, it may be an effective way to do so. 

source 

Side note: an interesting article of examples of black and white photography vs color photography

http://www.petapixel.com/2012/01/17/famous-black-and-white-photos-with-color-breathed-into-them/