The year 2020 will always be remembered as a time of profound change, challenge, and unexpected creativity. For my family and me, it was also the year we stumbled upon a simple yet profoundly rewarding hobby, black and white toy photography. What started as a project to stave off the boredom of lockdown has evolved into a cherished creative outlet that continues to inspire us to this day.
Finding Creativity in Chaos
When the world slowed down in 2020, I, like many parents, faced the challenge of keeping my children entertained and engaged within the confines of our home. One afternoon, surrounded by scattered toys, I proposed an idea: what if we turned their favorite playthings into the stars of a photo series? Little did we know, this simple suggestion would spark a passion project that united us as a family.
Equipped with my camera and a sense of adventure, we began setting up scenes using their favorite toys. We started with classic Star Wars figures, imagining epic battles and quiet moments of reflection. As we explored different compositions, we discovered that shooting in black and white brought an unexpected elegance and depth to these miniature worlds.
Godzilla Walks the Beach
One of our most memorable shoots involved a large Godzilla figure. We took it to the beach at Walton-on-the-Naze one overcast day, letting the waves and moody skies act as the perfect backdrop. In black and white, the images transformed Godzilla into a towering, dramatic presence. Seeing the figure stride out of the surf was like watching a classic monster movie come to life. We then added a city backdrop using Photoshop.
The Charm of Wall-E and Friends
We didn’t stop with Godzilla. Over time, our portfolio expanded to include beloved characters like Wall-E, fierce Orcs, and a whole array of Dinosaurs. Each toy brought its own personality to the frame, and our storytelling skills grew with every click of the shutter. Wall-E, for instance, became a favorite subject, his expressive eyes and curious nature shining beautifully in monochrome.
Why Black and White?
You might wonder why we chose to focus on black and white photography. There’s a certain timelessness to monochrome that transforms even the simplest toy into a work of art. Without the distraction of color, textures, contrasts, and shadows take center stage, adding a sense of drama and intrigue to each image.
It also allowed us to tap into the nostalgic aesthetic of old movies and photography, making even a plastic dinosaur look like a prehistoric creature captured on film.
The Joy of Collaboration
This project wasn’t just about photography; it was about bonding. My children became active collaborators, suggesting scenes, arranging props, and even coming up with narratives for the toys. It was thrilling to see their imaginations come alive and to capture their vision through the lens.
A Creative Journey That Continues
Now, years later, this hobby remains a part of our lives. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon at home or a family outing to the park, our camera often accompanies us. The toys have changed slightly as my children grow older, but the joy of creating something together has stayed the same.
Tips for Black and White Toy Photography
If you’re feeling inspired to try black and white toy photography with your own family, here are a few tips:
Use Natural Light: Overcast days or golden hour provide soft, dramatic lighting that works beautifully in black and white.
Experiment with Angles: Get down to the toy’s level to create a sense of scale and realism.
Focus on Details: Black and white photography highlights textures, so play with patterns and surfaces.
Tell a Story: Think about what’s happening in the scene and let the toys convey a narrative.
Edit Thoughtfully: Post-processing can enhance contrast and bring out the richness of shadows and highlights.
Black and white toy photography has given my family a way to connect, create, and find beauty in the everyday. What began as a way to fill time during lockdown has become a cherished tradition, one that brings joy and creativity to our lives.
So grab your camera, dig out those old toys, and start creating your own little masterpieces. You might just discover a hobby that lasts a lifetime.
Have you ever tried toy photography or another creative project during the lockdown? Share your stories in the comments below—I’d love to hear them!
