Well known for his black-and-white portraiture, Atlanta-based portrait and fashion photographer Timofey Abel offers his four best tips on the topic.

Let natural light direct the story. “Black-and-white portraiture thrives on the way light shapes form,” Abel says. “Instead of forcing light, learn to read it—notice its quality, direction, and time of day.” The sun can be a key light, sculpting the face with shadows or backlighting to create a more atmospheric feel. Reflective surfaces like walls and sand can also bounce light.

Use continuous light for cinematic depth. “I avoid strobes in favor of continuous Hollywood-style lights,” he says. This type of light allows the subject to “move naturally, and the photographer can observe emotion unfold in real time.”

Focus on emotion and connection. “For me the strongest portraits often come from slowing down and creating trust,” Abel says. Gentle direction and matching the energy of your subject will allow them to be vulnerable. “Often natural emotion speaks louder than rigid posing.”

Embrace simplicity and contrast. Black-and-white photography strips away distraction, highlighting light, shape, and emotion, he says. “Use contrast to carve out your subject’s presence and tell the story.” Simplicity is best—whether that’s the wardrobe, the background, or the subject’s expression—and makes for timeless work.

Amanda Arnold is a senior editor.