When you strip away the color what are you left with? The essential character of the portrait. No more distraction, no more clutter. Just the lines and tones of your subject.

The portrait above is over 100 years old and the young lady’s name is a mystery. This was taken somewhere in Russia. some time around 1900. There is a depth to this picture that is haunting. Her expression, her eyes and the wisp of a smile all contribute.

This hard to define quality is what I try to capture in every portrait!

This portrait is very recent and I think has the same quality as the one above. The monotone treatment really brings out her eyes and the expression on her face!