Choosing Black & White

Choosing Black & White

Author: Steve Brazill April 7, 2022 Duration: 57:38
Behind the Shot - Video
ArtsEducationHow ToTechnologyVisual

I don’t think Dr. Larry Tiefenbrunn, or Dr. T as he’s known to many, ever sleeps. Larry is a practicing pediatrician, and active photographer, and he’s the founder and CEO of Platypod.

I first met Larry through Rick Sammon, and we have been friends ever since. His company Platypod makes some of my favorite photo accessories – the larger Platypod Max and the smaller Ultra, one of which is next to me every show. Their most recent product is the Platyball, a unique bullhead available in the Ergo and Elite models. I have an unboxing of both Platyball options up on the YouTube channel here.

One special part of this show is that Larry is sharing details of a new Platypod product that’s in development. If you are a fan of Platypod, like I am, this new product sounds very interesting.

Larry has been on the show once before, on episode 57 in 2018. On that show we talked about a great guitar image he did, and discussed Better Product Photography. This time we are going a different route…

if you look at Larry’s portfolio you’ll notice that Larry shoots a lot of different genres, from portraits, to animals, landscapes, street, and studio work. One thing you may also notice is that Larry has an eye for Black & White images. His B&W work has a contrast and depth I enjoy, and he manages to strip the story down to the basic components needed to help a viewer better understand the story. Today, we are going to explore not just the process of making a photo black & white, but the thought process behind when and why you might choose to remove the color from an image.

Join businessman and photographer Dr. Larry Tiefenbrunn and me as we explore his approach to Black & White photography, and as we discuss the new Platypod Extreme, on this episode of Behind the Shot.

Larry’s First Time on Behind the Shot

Episode 57 – 2018: Better Product Photography

Connect with Larry

Portfolio: ljtmd.smugmug.com

Platypod

Website: platypod.com
Instagram: @platypodtripods
Twitter: @platypodtripods
Facebook: @platypod
YouTube: @platypod

Larry’s Photographer Pick

Bryan Peterson: bryanfpeterson.com

Bryan Peterson’s Books

Understanding Exposure: amazon.com
Learning to See Creatively: amazon.com

Ansel Adams Book Mentioned by Larry During the Show

The Negative: amazon.com

Software Mentioned by Larry During the Show

Nik Collection from DxO: nikcollection.dxo.com

Platypod Extreme


Steve Brazill hosts Behind the Shot-Video, a series that goes far beyond gear lists and camera settings. Each conversation is a deep exploration of the creative and technical journey behind compelling images. You’ll hear working photographers unpack the entire process-from the initial spark of an idea and the challenges of the location to the critical decisions made in post-production. This podcast sits at the unique intersection of art and practical technology, offering tangible lessons for anyone looking to improve their visual storytelling. Rather than abstract theory, these discussions provide a real-world look at problem-solving under pressure and the artistic choices that define a signature style. Tune in for honest, detailed breakdowns that reveal how memorable shots are truly built, layer by layer. It’s an essential resource for visual artists seeking both inspiration and actionable knowledge, all grounded in the lived experience of accomplished creators.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 200

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Behind the Shot - Video
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