In this tutorial, I will be using Adobe Photoshop CS4.
The quickest and easiest method to convert an image to B&W will be using Desaturate tool.
Image -> Adjustments -> Desaturate
A ten seconds job, but as you can see in the top right hand image, it has very low contrast, and it appears darker and flat.
Another method will be using Photoshop Black & White tool.
Photoshop's Black & White Tool is new to CS3 and CS4 and it works differently from the Channel Mixer and Lab Colour methods that have been well adopted previously. The black and white tool is easy to use and you don't need a degree in graphic design to get to grips with it.
Image -> Adjustments -> Black & White
When you look at the Black & White dialog box, you will see that there is an option called Present. You are recommended to trial and error with the different types of presets. For this image, I am using High Contrast Red Filter where Cyan is reduced significantly, along with Blue and also Green. Red, Magenta and Yellow are all drastically increased. This tends to produce a bright, but contrasted effect as per left lower image.
To make life easier, download the Photoshop action Here and use it to automatically convert your image using Black & White tool in one click.
To install or import the action, refer to the following link:
http://eatcookshoot.blogspot.com/2010/02/installing-photoshop-actions.html
Very often in low key shoot, the eyes of the subject tends to look slightly dull. Using a soft white brush with 40-50 percent opacity, create a catchlight and moon as per lower right image. As eyes are often the crucial factor in a portrait, this will instantly liven up the image.
Good luck & have fun!
Credits:
Rebecca Chen & Aylwin's Photography
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