Monochromatic pictures are minimalistic. They do not have a range of different colors that distract from the main object or the narrative. The color space helps to show the viewer the most important, the core idea.

Practically, it helps to focus on the composition and framing. As a beginner, I find the ‘monochromatic’ mode very helpful in developing the skill of looking for better perspectives and composition options.

Here are a few tips that I found helpful (by Jamie Windsor):
1.  plan to shoot b&w
2.  look for the abstract
3.  shoot in raw / use color filters
4.  use long exposures
5.  dodge and burn
6.  understand how light is affected
7.  use high dynamic range
8.  emphasize mood
9.  subvert expectations

“You don’t take a photograph, you make it” – Ansel Adams