Recently, one image has dominated profiles, timelines, and stories: the infamous black-and-white photo with a dramatic and artistic look. Here's how to create the photo that's trending on social media.

The question everyone asks is the same: How do you create the photo that becomes a trend on social media? This trend went viral so quickly that even those who had never enjoyed image editing wanted to jump on the bandwagon.
And I was one of them.

When I saw my feed filled with these stylish photos, I wondered how to create my own. And look, it's simpler than it seems. In this article, I'll show you how to create your own version of this trend, which apps to use, and even reveal 5 creative variations that are going viral.

Everything is practical, step-by-step, straight to the point and designed to attract the attention of those looking for ways to stand out on social media.

First of all, what is this black and white photography trend?

This trend exploded on social media with an artistic and cinematic feel. The image features a black background, side lighting, and high-contrast black and white.

She has a mysterious, intense air, reminiscent of portraits from film noir or dramatic manga.
But the coolest thing is that there are creative variations of this photo.

Some people add sparkles, others mix it with a neon filter, some use textured cutouts, and so on.

Therefore, learning how to create the photo that becomes a trend on social media also involves understanding these variations. Each one has its own unique touch. Below, I'll show you the most popular styles.

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Classic Variation: Dramatic Black and White

Initially, this is the most basic and famous. The image has a completely black background, a prominent face, and strong contrast.

The contours of the face are evident, and the light only illuminates one side. This style is reminiscent of art gallery portraits or old record covers.

To achieve this effect, I recommend:

• Take the photo in a dark environment.
• Use a side light (even a cell phone flashlight can be used).
• Then edit in Remini, PicsArt, or Lightroom Mobile.
• This way, you get the look that’s most faithful to the original trend.

“Anime Noir” Variation

This version is reminiscent of anime or dark comic book characters. The image remains black and white, but with touch-ups that make the expressions more intense.

What changes? The effect makes eyes more prominent, eyebrows stronger, and even adds artificial shading. It looks like an illustration in the style of "Death Note" or "Sin City."

Ideal apps:

• Meitu
• ToonMe
• AI Mirror

These apps apply the filter automatically. All you need is a good selfie with a clean background for the effect to work properly.

“Galactic Glow” Variation

At first, it may seem like a departure from the original theme, but this variation has been very popular. Here, the black background is maintained, but points of light or sparkles are added around the subject.

Why does it work? The contrast with the black creates a "celebrity" look, as if the person were in a professional studio. It's eye-catching yet elegant.

To create:

• Use PicsArt and add the “Galaxy” or “Dust” effect.
• In Snapseed, you can also do this manually with the Brightness brush.
• This option attracts attention and yields good results in both stories and profiles.

“Cut with texture” variation

Unlike the previous ones, this one involves cutting out the person's silhouette and applying texture behind it. This could be cracked concrete, torn paper, a cosmic backdrop, etc.

Advantage: You stand out, but with a modern and creative touch. Ideal for those who want to break away from the norm, but still follow the trend.

Apps that help:

• Canva
• Polish Photo Editor
• Remove.bg (for easy cropping)
  

This way, you can combine multiple layers and create something completely custom. And best of all, it's easy to do, even without experience.

Variation with Neon and Luminous Contour

This one's for those who want something bolder. Here, in addition to the black and white effect, a luminous outline (usually in neon pink, blue, or green) is added.

A younger, bolder style. It looks like a futuristic concert poster or an electronic music album cover. Great for creative types.

Recommended apps:

• Prequel
• Neon Art
• PhotoDirector

Just like the previous ones, all you need is a good selfie and the suggested filters. The result is breathtaking!

Editor's Tip

Finally, now that you know how to create the photo that becomes a trend on social media, just choose your favorite version and test it out.

So, it doesn't matter if you prefer a classic style or a futuristic version. The important thing is to explore your creativity and express your identity.

As an SEO and WordPress expert, I have an important message: if you have a blog, e-commerce, or work with your personal image, creating visual content like this is a powerful way to attract new audiences.

I'll leave one of the prompts used to create a photo: “A dramatic black and white portrait of a person, studio lighting, sharp shadows, high contrast, cinematic look, elegant and mysterious expression, dark blurred background, soft light on the face, inspired by the TikTok viral black and white photo trend, low-key photography style”

This type of content has a very high engagement rate. It generates comments, shares, and helps increase site dwell time. In terms of Google rankings, this is gold.

Want to join this trend? Use the suggested apps, perfect the lighting, and share your version of this image that's taken over social media. And if you like the result, share it with me. I'd love to see it!