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.