Black & white photography is timeless. It adds depth to its surroundings and can bring an instant element of class and elegance to a room. However some people shy away from the idea of using black and white photos for decorating, afraid it will look dull and lack creativity. This could not be more untrue. Black and white is the perfect medium for decorating with pictures in any room in the house; even a child’s bedroom. The key is in knowing how to use it.

 Tips for decorating with black and white photography:

Tip 1: Black and white photos are ideal for decorating brightly colored walls because they won’t conflict with the surrounding color. Use the same frame style and color for every picture to prevent competition, while drawing one’s eye to the subject of the photo. Solid black or white frames with white matting work well with vivid backgrounds. 

Tip 2: Adorn a child’s room with black and white prints of a subject they love. Baseball fans will be thrilled by the variety of vintage shots featuring famous sluggers and well-known stadiums. For a child who adores animals, black and white pictures of puppies, kittens or horses play well against pale blue or pink walls. 

Tip 3: Teenage girls enjoy themed decor such as Paris, glamorous movie stars or dance. Paired in brightly colored or black frames against white or cream walls, black and white photos will blend in beautifully with her inspiration.

Tip 4: Neutral colored walls in a living space form the perfect pallet for black and white art. Photos of the beach or ocean framed in distressed white, light blue or natural wood give a special touch to a coastal themed room. A more modern and chic look can be achieved by combining photos in both black and white frames in a beige room with white trim and shelves and black wrought iron wall hangings, candle holders and lamps.  

Black and white photos can be dramatic, playful, elegant or glamorous, bringing tremendous beauty and infinite possibilities for decorating to a home. Consider the possibilities in your own home and then browse our large selection of black and white photography.  

Have you ever wanted with two simplistic yet intense colors? Most decorators will agree that the colors to do this job are black and white, two colors that are stark against each other. They are complete opposites in the color scheme, yet they work together cohesively to create a huge impact. When working with black and white, consider the effect you want to create in the room. You’ll be surprised at how many different ways you can go: sophisticated, chic, minimal, classic, cozy or vintage. Using black and white art is one great way to achieve that effect, here's how:

• Modern Black and White Art

A modern bedroom is all about sophistication and clean lines. It’s sleek and chic. Consider using cleverly chosen black and white art. From a single bold piece of art to a collage of black and white art, the effect can be stunning and dramatic. Whether it’s the clean lines and shades or the juxtaposition of the two bold colors, using modern black and white art can transform your bedroom into a modern haven of good taste.

• Vintage Black and White Art

Vintage is the rage these days. If you’re dreaming of transforming your bedroom into a vintage showcase, consider the use of vintage black and white art. From throwback to the good old days of baseball to iconic moments in history to famous movie stars, the choices are astounding. Go with a theme or create a feel with these visual pieces.

• Black and White Photography

Perhaps you’re a photography buff or a fan of black and white photography. You’re in good company. Black and white photography adds interest, appeal and a soft, understated, yet powerful effect. Scenery, places of interest, portraits lend themselves to that effect, though black and white photography is not limited to these categories. Use black and white photography to create a calming, soothing effect or to create a cozy getaway from the day’s hustle and bustle at the end of the day. A bedroom to soothe the soul, the perfect retreat.

Decorating your bedroom with just two colors will not be boring with a little know-how and imagination. Use as little or as much of the black-white combo and let the colors do the talking. You may also opt to add drama with an introduction of a third color but the call is entirely up to you.