Shooting digital photos in black and white can produce stunning results, but the key is to capture the essence of the subject through the interplay of light and shadow rather than relying on color. The best approach is to shoot in color and then convert the images to black and white during post-processing.
When shooting, look for scenes with strong contrast, interesting textures, and a sense of depth. Pay close attention to the direction and quality of the light, as it will have a significant impact on the final result. Experiment with different camera settings, such as adjusting the exposure, sharpness, and contrast, to achieve the desired look. Shooting in RAW format will give you more flexibility when converting the images to black and white later on. During post-processing, use tools like the saturation slider, color channel adjustments, and selective toning to fine-tune the image and bring out the desired mood and atmosphere. With practice and experimentation, you'll be able to create high-quality black and white digital photographs that convey the essence of your subject.