Converting Color Photos to B&W

In response to a forum inquiry about the use of grayscale vs. desaturation, Trinity responded in part that "Grayscale mode and desaturation are essentially two different things which create a similar result." Grayscale mode and desaturation are probably the simplest (but not only) ways to "get the red out" (as well as the blues and greens) when converting a color image to black and white. Each has its place in image editing. -->

These articles and illustrated tutorials present general instructions on working with black and white photos. Use these as a starting point when you want or need to work with black and white or shades of gray.

• The Many Faces of Black and White - Changing Color Photographs to Black and White
  In photography, Black & White photographs are actually shades of gray. In digital imaging these B&W images are called grayscale to differentiate them from black and white line art. Desaturation is another method that simulates grayscale, but it's not.
• Scanning Line Art - The True B&W and How to Do It Right
  Learn how to properly scan line art with this step-by-step illustrated tutorial three methods of scanning black and white and grayscale images.
• Combining a Color and B&W Photo - Add a Splash of Color to a B&W Image
  There are two basic methods for combining a color and a black and white or grayscale image into one image. Transforming Color Pictures to Black and White - Why Use B&W in a Color World
  While color is pleasant, there's a certain elegance to black and white that keeps artists coming back to it. Armed with your digital camera, you can make your own black-and-white masterpiece.