12 Chic Black and White Photoshoot Ideas

Good old black and white will always remain in vogue. There’s just something about the stark contrast between the two that has the timeless effect of style and class. There’s also no shortage of great black and white photoshoot ideas, from using black and white film to black and white in the color scheme of your photoshoot.

Keep in mind that finding the right location for your photoshoot is just as important as coming up with the idea for your shoot. While you may be struggling to think up your own chic black and white photoshoot ideas, there’s no reason you should struggle to find a location for your shoot.

Peerspace, the world’s largest online marketplace for venue rentals, has got you covered. It’ll help you find the ideal setting for your chic black and white photoshoot ideas, no matter where you live. We’ll show what we mean with some stylish venue suggestions ahead.

So now, let’s get on to our list!

1. Dalmatians

What’s a more iconic use of black and white than a Dalmatian pattern? Classy to the end, the splotchy contrast of black and white in a Dalmatian’s coat presents a terrific visual. The organic and asymmetric splotches of the coat will add texture to this photoshoot.

The movie that made them famous, 101 Dalmatians, also featured Cruella De Vil, whose skunked hair and wardrobe also happen to be incredibly chic. Whether you’re going for the Cruella De Vil look or the Dalmatian pattern, this shoot is guaranteed to be stylish.

If you’re in New York City and trying to snap some Cruella-inspired pics, you’ll find yourself right where you need to be in this Midtown studio. Along with its handy 12′ cyc wall, the studio also features a 4k video wall, multiple backdrops, and fun add-ons for a super creative shoot.

Another perk that comes with using Peerspace is the user reviews that help you narrow down your venue selection. And this Midtown studio literally has hundreds for you to peruse, so check them out!

2. Black and white pinstripes

Old-timey prison uniforms’ black and white pinstripe jumpsuits popped in a crowd so that people could quickly identify escaped convicts. Regardless of whether or not you’re using the pinstripes to evoke an old-timey prison uniform or just enjoy the way those stripes look, this photoshoot is bound to really pop in photographs.

The best place for a prison escape photoshoot could be this two-story clock tower in Houston, Texas. It’s a truly one-of-a-kind venue that offers you access to a multi-level space. While here, utilize the third-floor natural light studio before heading up a floor to the unmissable clock tower.

“This studio is absolutely amazing,” shares a photographer in their Peerspace review of this historic space. “One of the coolest settings ever. Mir A is great host very accommodating. I look forward to booking again.”

3. Zebras

Zebras are another instance of black and white appearing in nature. Although their coats are similar to black and white pinstripe suits, you’ll find that the asymmetry in their coats adds a whole other dimension to their appearance. Going with a zebra pattern is sure to enhance the visuals in your photographs.

Looking to get lost in a crowd of stripes in The Twin Cities? Then you need to check out this retro-chic house of glamour known as Zebra House! It features multiple rooms with elegant vintage decor, including a zebra-themed retro bar perfect for your photoshoot.

“This is a fabulous, fun location for a photo shoot,” exclaims a Peerspace reviewer. “There are so many unique options for shooting really creative images. We will definitely be back. Ann Marie was very welcoming and helpful. Thanks!”

If you adore the endlessly chic ambiance of your black and white photoshoot, then turn it into an event using our black and white party ideas!

4. Film noir

If you didn’t already know, “noir” means “black” in French. This genre of film relies heavily on contrasting sources of light. Going with an old-school film noir photoshoot will allow you to incorporate light and shadow into your design. You can also incorporate the chic outfits we see on some of the characters in these movies.

If you’re in New York and looking to photograph some “noir” drama, you should check out this classy location in East Williamsburg for your shoot. Each booking includes a free pull of black or white paper, but talk to the host about the fee for one of each to live out your black and white photoshoot ideas.

5. Checkmate

Not only is a chessboard black and white, but the two sets of pieces are black and white as well. Chess is also never out of style and will remain timelessly chic. Incorporating the chessboard pattern as a backdrop to your photoshoot is not a bad idea, but why stop there when you can also use the black and white chess pieces?

If you’re in New York City and looking to make some moves with a chess-themed shoot, you might want to check out this surreal event space. It is a distinct creative space with a checkerboard floor and other black and white accents.

6. Recreating old photographs of family members

Old black and white photographs are a window into the past. Sometimes we’ll even come across a photograph of a grandparent when they were younger, and all dressed up. It’s exciting to see but even more thrilling to recreate for ourselves.

You can dress up in the chic clothing of the period and pose as the subjects of the photographs for a modern take on an old style. Nothing will please an elderly relative more than seeing these homages to their past. Using black and white film will only enhance this effect.

If you’re looking to shoot in Austin, Texas, check out this modern home in Cedar Park. While it has a contemporary style, it is also a beautiful white canvas to make your recreation shoot more vivid.

7. Recreating historical scenes captured on film

Why stop at recreating family portraits when you could reenact historical scenes? While in line with #6, this photoshoot idea could take you in any number of directions. You may want to dress up as President Lincoln or even impersonate Katherine Hepburn (c’est chic!) to give a personal twist on historical figures.

Looking to recreate pictures in Sydney, Australia? Then check out this white-on-white blank canvas waterfront apartment in Double Bay. It’s effortlessly chic itself, with an all-white color palette, an open floor plan, and stunning bay views right out the windows.

8. Shadow play

While color photography does help present a more realistic image, it’s easier to create a dramatic effect using shadow in black and white photography. Play with different light sources so that it falls at different angles over your subjects, concealing or revealing different parts of them. You’ll find ways to emphasize or deemphasize some aspects in your photographs, creating quite the dramatic scene.

You’ll need a good canvas for this shoot, and if you’re in Seattle, you should check out this top-floor studio in Pioneer Square. It has a black and white design scheme enhanced by a brick wall and pops of color from the furnishings.

A Peerspace reviewer referred to it as a “Fantastic combination of shooting areas for the space, with great natural light – as well as an area for studio/backdrops.”

9. Portraits

Seeing someone’s portrait in black and white accentuates certain features of the face that wouldn’t usually come through in color photographs. Black and white pictures of faces emphasize the general shapes of people’s characteristics. For example, seeing someone’s eyes in black and white focuses on the shape of the eyes rather than the color.

If you’re in Detroit and looking for a place to shoot some black and white portraits, then try this spacious production studio near Milwaukee Junction. It’s home to a massive infinity wall and offers helpful add-on services to enhance your shoot, including paper backdrops and lights.

10. Coffee and cream

Ever been amazed by the shapes created on the surface of your coffee? The swirling contrast between the colors creates quite a mesmerizing effect. Why not capture that on film? Or use the contrast between the two as inspiration?

If you’re checking out photoshoot locations in Miami, this daylight loft might be the ideal place for your cream and coffee shoot. It is a beautiful concrete space with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in lots of natural light. Plus, there is a coffeemaker on-site for your use!

“The space is nice and luxurious, all the furnitures are high quality,” shares a photographer in their Peerspace review. “The cyc wall was perfect for e-com shoot and Olga [the host] was super nice!”

Planning a wedding by any chance? Then you need to see our guide to planning a black and white wedding!

11. Using snow to create dramatic imagery

While using black and white film, it’s essential to have good light sources. Snow’s reflective properties make it such a good backdrop for subjects in photography. Capturing your photographs’ subjects against a snowy backdrop will cause them to pop, and you’ll get that chic black and white photoshoot you’ve been dreaming about.

If you want to create this shoot in Chicago, check out this beautiful outdoor location. Just be sure to book your shoot on a snowy day!

12. Starry night

Most people can appreciate the beauty of a starry night. Why not incorporate the night sky into your photoshoot? Whether you’re photographing the night sky in black and white or recreating the pattern of stars on a black background, you’ll create an impressive visual in your photoshoot.

If you’re in Nashville and looking for an excellent location to create your own starry night photoshoot, check out this outer space galaxy set in Atlanta. Simply shoot in black and white and enjoy an incredibly dreamy effect in your photos.

In the words of a Peerspace reviewer: “Absolutely recommend! Great to work with, friendly and professional. We loved this space, it was even better than we had imagined, it’s a hidden gem. We loved the content we were able to create using this space [and] We plan to come back for many more projects. Thank you for a successful day!”

Black and white photoshoot ideas come to life with Peerspace

We hope you’ve taken inspiration from this list of black and white photoshoot ideas and are on your way to making your photoshoot a reality! Check out Peerspace for even more exciting venues near you that you can rent by the hour.

Between our amazing creative spaces and their dedicated, attentive hosts, any creative project you plan for is sure to be a success.

Find venues for your black and white photoshoot on Peerspace