Need Help with BW Conversion

[angtomczak]

I'm trying to convert the attached photo to B&W.

I've looked at many, many different tutorials (PSE6) then studied b&w's on Flickr, and then worked for about an hour on it; and I just can't seem give it the wow factor. Or are there just too many shadows on her face to make a good b&w?

Fortunately, I know where to turn for help! You all are such artists, and I'd really love to see what CAN be done with this photo. I feel like I'm floating aimlessly, and being able to see something good would help me focus.



Anyone wanna give it a shot?

Thanks in advance!

[dcclark]

What methods are you using?

What is your goal with the B&W conversion (what do you want to achieve with the photo)?

Can you post an example, and examine what you don't like about it?

[angtomczak]

I am using Photoshop Elements 6. Basically, I am just trying to hone my skills; seeing how the different methods of b&w conversions work. It's very hard for me to put into words what I want to achieve with this photo. I guess I could say that I just want it to be a cool looking black & white!

Here's what I did:


I don't know... Maybe it's ok. I just wanted to see what someone who knows what they are doing, could do! I think it just boils down to me not trusting my own judgement... but I'll save that for the therapist

[dcclark]

I like that conversion (although I'm certainly not a portrait expert). Perhaps the blankets are a bit too white and distracting.

My question, though, was what method of conversion are you using? Just going with turning the saturation slider all the way down? Using the "Desaturate" command? Using the channel mixer? (That's my preferred one.)

[angtomczak]

Originally Posted by dcclark

I like that conversion (although I'm certainly not a portrait expert). Perhaps the blankets are a bit too white and distracting.

My question, though, was what method of conversion are you using? Just going with turning the saturation slider all the way down? Using the "Desaturate" command? Using the channel mixer? (That's my preferred one.)

OK, I can tone down the white blanket. Thanks!

What method of conversion didn't I use? That's the question. Well, I did not Desaturate, as I've read that's not the best method. I've found a lot of info (online) using the channel mixer, but don't have a clue.

So, I used the Convert to Black & White, Portrait mode, and left the RGB & Contrast alone (figuring the software is smarter than me). Then I played with Layering (luminosity, Soft Light, etc). Then I added a Diffuse Glow filter in there somewhere. Then I adjusted until I was cross eyed. Then I gave up and asked my question on DPS.