A kiss is a simple gesture that symbolizes many feelings. It can be an expression of affection, a declaration of love, or respect. The motion contrasts the coldness brought by the lack of color and complete facial identity.

Something is metaphorical when you use it to stand for or symbolize another thing. A metaphor is a figure of speech that is used to make a comparison between two things that aren't alike but do have something in common. This black and white picture compares a kiss and loving lips to the coldness of black and white and the implied absence of flesh.

The emotional power of a black and white image is a robust quality that grabs the viewer’s attention. The emotion of the photo comes from within the subject, and the viewer is forced to pause and take a closer look.

These images conjure up emotions that are difficult to express in words but are universal to all who look at black and white photos.