Black and white images incorporating clouds often look better, or at least more dramatic, when there's a bit of contrast and variety in the cloud formations.
On the other hand, I find that the natural bluish hues in dense low cloud dropping rain often look better and more dramatic when the scene is dark, brooding and fairly low in overall contrast.
Like all rules, though...
For some reason I have fell out of love with images of clouds in B&W (I'm including my own in that....).
I'm unsure if the additional drama makes them feel false, or simply that many have overdone it and poisoned the attraction to me.
That said, I LOVE your colored image. The drama of the falling rain and resulting light interface between sea & sky really pulls me in.
Hopefully you had time to pack camera and tripod prior to getting soaked on that one :-)
Thanks, Alan. Glad you like the colour image. I wasn't sure if it'd be seen to lack focus, or a distinct enough subject (I'm sure the latter is true for some).
Chris, both are nice shots. I agree with you and Alan that the second picture does have more drama. The second picture also captures the assignment of Black and Blue. Well done!
Thanks, Gordon! The challenge was really just mono, but I thought I'd try a monochrome that wasn't B & W for a change.
You got it right with the decision whether to use b&w or color - contrast-y variety vs dark, brooding. Both of these photos are excellent examples. I especially LOVE the 2nd one. The rain and blue tones are wonderful!
Thanks very much, Jenny. I'm a little surprised the blue image appeals to others, as it's so muted and you could say indistinct.
I love the 2nd one, it has drama and a clear subject. Well done!
Thanks, Alex! Given your comments on the stubble field I posted recently as well, I thought you'd be one of those who thought No. 2 lacked that "clear subject". I'm not sure I think a photo SHOULD always have a subject - but that's a big topic in itself for another day.