Do you love the look of black and white photos, but aren't certain how to create layouts with them? Creating layouts with black and white photos is very simple and effective, offering versatility in choosing papers and embellishments that allow more emphasis to be placed on elements that will enhance the photos.
The first layout is created using an enlarged vertical photo and 7 Gypsies brown-based background paper. The photo is printed to take up approximately half of the background paper. Because the photo is so large, it is best to use a strong picture that conveys a message without the need for additional journaling. Each year, this same photo is taken in front of this same brick wall on the first day of school, because the bricks offer a visual way to see how much she has grown since the year before. In this photo, the brick wall doesn't really "match" what she is wearing in the picture. By changing the picture to black and white, more emphasis can be placed on the fact that she is taller than she was the year before, not on the colors of her clothing or the background. A paper measuring tape extends from the top to the bottom of the layout to add to the "growing" concept, and a few simple embellishments are added that don't detract from the basic meaning of the page. 
In the second layout example, there are two different photos used - one is a horizontal panoramic picture, and the other is a square photo. Both photos featured the subject wearing brightly colored clothing that would normally clash with bright papers and embellishments. However, after changing the photos to black and white, the bright colors enhance the pictures, rather than take away from them. The various bright colors are pleasing to the eye and the ribbon accent and bow across the top of the square picture help draw attention to her face. 
The third layout is in 12" x 12" format, and uses an 8.5" x 11" photo as the main focal point. All of the papers and embellishments in this layout are also black and white, but the photograph is still able to stand out without being overwhelmed by the black and white elements around it. The handmade envelope allows hidden journaling or keepsake papers to be placed inside, and the title placed directly onto the photograph keeps the eyes focused on the picture. 
This layout uses red and black as the key colors, creating strong emphasis on a solid, black and white single photo focal point. There is no journaling added to this page because of the wording on the patterned paper, so it is a great stand-alone layout for a portrait-type picture or a photo that speaks for itself. The handmade formica tag with black gingham ribbon is a simple yet effective embellishment that adds interest to the page without overwhelming the overall look. Red and black are two very powerful colors that are terrific choices to use with black and white photos. 
In example layout five, the patterned paper adds lots of character and color to the layout, allowing different patterns to be mixed together without overpowering the photo. This type of layout works well with a single, strong photo, but allows more creativity with the color choices without looking cluttered. The eye is still drawn to the photo, and the simple embellishments lead the eye around the page in a consistent manner. 
Finally, the last layout example creates a more dramatic feeling with the black and white photo mounted on black cardstock, then mixed with a bright, funky patterned paper. The journaling is printed on a clear transparency, and then laid on top of the patterned paper, allowing the pattern to show through. This somewhat softens the effect of the patterned paper, so that the pattern doesn't overwhelm or detract from the quality of the picture. Four tiny index pictures, also in black and white, add more visual interest when added to the bottom right side of the layout.
The combinations of colors and patterns are endless when using black and white photos. You can create simple layouts with minimal embellishments, or you can get bold and creative with various patterns and colors. No matter what your choice, black and white photos are able to be prominent and eye-catching when mixed with different elements!
