Part 5 - 2 :- Converting a colour image to black and white.

In this part, I am using some specific tools to convert an image to black and white.

Technique #2 - Using the Channel Mixer

This technique uses a method to adjust individual RGB channels in the image. This approach gives a multitudinous variation to the effect that can be achieved, whilst still retaining a good degree of control over the intensity of the effect and keeping noise to a minimum.

The original image.

Step 1 - 'Denoise' the image.

There are another hundred different ways to do this. Here, I am just using Despeckle to take a little of the 'grain' look out of the image. You can use a noise reduction program if you desire.

I do not like strong noise reduction effects and would rather put up with some small amount of noise, if needed.

I find it is better to be subtle and that is why I am choosing this tool. My original image does not display much noise, so I am just smoothing it slightly.

This really comes down to personal taste though.

Step 2 - Desaturate.

Same as in technique #1 - Simply, I am stripping out the colour information. Keep in mind though that I am still working in an RGB colour space so all is not lost yet. More in a moment.

Step 3 - Once the image is desaturated, I will create a new layer.

Step 4 - Working in my new layer, I now select Channel Mixer.

Step 5 - Select Channel Mixer Values and check 'Monochrome' box.

Note : The general idea with using the Channel Mixer, is to adjust the values so that the sum equals 100%.

Here I am using values of Red +50%, Green +50%, Blue +20% and Constant -10%. The Constant control applies a value effect across all channels (colours).

In my example, the combined 'sum' of the channels is therefore 110% as I wish to add a small amount of brightness to the image.

Note also : This part is where you really should experiment with your own values. Keep in mind that what we wish to avoid is losing highlight or shadow detail - That is unless you want a high contrast look to your image.

Step 6 - Select Blending Options

Step 7 - Select Soft Light

Step 8 - Select a value for blending.

Here I am using 80%. Again, experiment with this. The point here is that the original desaturated image is the layer below, so all we are doing is blending our 'mixed' image to that layer.

That's it. Here is the final image. Now you can resize and save.

I usually 'Flatten' my images, resize and save as Jpeg. Always use 'Save As' so you do not overwrite your original image.

You can also adjust other things such as Levels, Contrast, etc., if you wish and, to suit your own taste.

Comparison of the original, desaturated and 'mixed' images.

Pretty much that is it. I hope you find it beneficial.

Remember, do NOT save over your original file. Use 'Save As'.

There are hundreds of ways to post process. This is just one technique and I find it works well for many images.

Try it out and have fun. Be sure to try different values in the steps as this will provide you with a wealth of 'self-learned' views of how the values affect the outcome.

For other black and white conversion techniques Click Here

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