There’s something powerful about black and white — it strips away distractions and focuses on emotion, texture, and tone. Whether you’re going for cinematic drama, vintage film, or minimalist elegance, these five VSCO filters will help you master the monochrome aesthetic.
1. X1 – Classic Noir
Mood: Timeless / bold contrast
Settings:
- Filter: X1
- Contrast: +3
- Grain: +2
- Fade: +1
Why it works: X1 is VSCO’s ultimate black-and-white classic. It sharpens shadows and brightens highlights, giving your photos a moody, professional finish perfect for portraits, fashion, and architecture.
2. B1 – Soft Monochrome
Mood: Gentle / vintage grayscale
Settings:
- Exposure: +0.5
- Contrast: +1
- Fade: +2
- Grain: +1
Why it works: B1 softens tones and creates that nostalgic softness of old photo prints. Ideal for lifestyle shots, soft lighting, or minimalist interiors.
3. A6 (Desaturated) – Modern Edge
Mood: Editorial / clean monochrome
Settings:
- Filter: A6
- Saturation: -6 (drag all the way down)
- Contrast: +2
- Grain: +2
Why it works: When fully desaturated, A6 turns into a sharp, modern black-and-white filter with a cool gray finish. Perfect for sleek streetwear, product shots, or minimalist feeds.
4. B5 – Cinematic Shadows
Mood: Film noir / emotional drama
Settings:
- Filter: B5
- Contrast: +2
- Grain: +3
- Fade: +1
Why it works: B5 captures that movie-scene depth — dark blacks, glowing whites, and rich midtones. Perfect for storytelling, close-ups, and night scenes.
5. X2 – Deep Matte Black
Mood: Bold / raw and expressive
Settings:
- Filter: X2
- Contrast: +3
- Grain: +2
- Temperature: -1
Why it works: X2 pushes shadows deep and adds a matte, modern finish. It’s perfect for edgy portraits, moody landscapes, and music-inspired photography.
🕯️ Pro Tip:
Black and white photography thrives on lighting and texture. Try using harsh natural light or side lighting to emphasize depth and emotion — then add a little grain for that analog charm.
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