Black and white is common in street photography because it can simplify a busy scene and direct attention to the subject, light, gesture, texture, and geometry instead of competing colors. In crowded urban environments, color can be distracting—signage, graffiti, posters, and random objects may pull the eye away from the main point of the image. Converting to B&W can make those elements less dominant.

It also changes the mood. Many photographers use B&W to create a grittier, more dramatic, or more timeless feel, especially for emotionally heavy subjects.

Some photographers also find that B&W can make technical flaws less noticeable, such as noise or small exposure issues, though that’s more of a side effect than a reason to rely on it.

So no, it’s not a best practice or requirement in street photography. It’s a creative choice. Use black and white when color weakens the image or when monochrome better supports the mood and composition. Use color when color itself helps tell the story.