Black and white underwater photography strips away the distraction of color to reveal the raw essence of the underwater world. It focuses on form, texture, and contrast, allowing viewers to see familiar marine scenes in a new light. In a black and white image of a shipwreck, the rusted metal plates and twisted beams take center stage. The grooves and rivets that might have been overlooked in a color photo now stand out in sharp relief, telling a story of time and decay.

　　Shooting in black and white underwater also requires a different approach to lighting. Without the vivid colors to guide the eye, the play of light and shadow becomes crucial. A strong side light can accentuate the curves of a whale shark's body, creating a dramatic silhouette. In a shallow seagrass bed, the contrast between the bright, sunlit tops of the grass and the darker shadows beneath can add depth and dimension. It challenges photographers to think beyond the obvious and find the hidden beauty in the monochromatic tones of the underwater environment, resulting in images that can be both powerful and evocative.