B&W in PSE

[pckrbby]

I can't get a good b&w out of this shot. As shown I have only converted it to b&w, adjusting nothing. What would you do?

Thanks!
Sue

www.footloose-photography.com

[digirebelva]

before you convert to b&w run it through a curves adjustment...the image is flat, lacking contrast & depth

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by digirebelva

before you convert to b&w run it through a curves adjustment...the image is flat, lacking contrast & depth

I actually prefer to do it after.

[pckrbby]

How do I run it through a curves adjustment in PSE?

[AGoldenTouchPhotography]

I don't have PSE, but is there a option to do
image>adjustment>curves?
If so, follow that and adjust the line to get the right depth.
Also are you just selecting "convert to b&w"?
Can you use the channel mixer to convert if you aren't already and play around to get the look you desire.
Kate

[vsa]

Here's what I'd do.



Some more contrast with curves. Some fiddling with masks. Sharpening. Vignette.

[pckrbby]

vsa, the pic looks great! I LOVE how you did the vignette...

Thanks everyone for the replies, I will work with what you said to use and repost my final.

Thanks again!

Sue

[fletch]

PSE doesn't have curves but you can use levels to achive the same ends. (You can get a plug in for curves as well.)

I would convert to B&W first, try the portrait setting as a base and then tweak from there. Then adjust the levels, maybe a bit of dodging and burning to lighten some areas and finally sharpening and a subtle vignette.

More detail here:http://jfletcherphoto.wordpress.com/...ack-and-white/