How do you....

[sunbeam]

Make a picture true black and white? Is it a setting you shoot with on camera, or is it a 'trick' in pp? (I have pse 7.) Thanks!

 

[docphysics]

What is pp? Some camera's have a B&W setting and most software will allow you to convert a color image to B&W.

 

[PhotoXopher]

PP = Post Processing

That's how I do it... I never actually shoot in B&W mode.

 

[sunbeam]

It seems like alot of my images are more 'grey' than that sharp black and white? Do I need to mess with contrast or shadows or anything to get that crisp black and white look?

 

[ann]

there isn't a trick. there are several methods that one can use from a one click


(not very product) to converting using channel mixing.

it is also important to think (visualize inblack and white terms)

 

[ann]

try levels and/or curves. to help separate gray tones

 

[icassell]

There are several good books on digital B/W. Just 'desaturating' in photoshop, although it converts to b/w, doesn't do a very good job. As one uses filters in film b/w, you need to adjust the different color intensities in the b/w image. You can set your camera to b/w but, in my experience, it doesn't do a great job either. Additionally, having the full-color information gives you greater flexibility.

Amazon.com: Advanced Digital Black & White Photography (A Lark Photography Book) (9781600592102): John Beardsworth: Books

 

[tirediron]

The best way is to shoot B&W film (Although strictly speaking that's still monochrome, not B&W). For digital conversions, I've found Nik Silver Efex Pro to do a pretty good job.

 

[inTempus]

If it's done right, it's done in post production. Here's a good reference site.

Photoshop Photos From Color to Stunning Black and White | PhotoshopSupport.com

 

[sunbeam]

AWESOME! Thank you everyone! There's some great advice here. I really appreciate the response