Practicing B&W Conversion, for CnC

[bunadski]

Good morning TPF!
I just want C&Cs for my B&W conversion below, this is my first try using the Black and White adjustment layer in PS.Previous B&W conversions were done with just pressing V or shifting Saturation to the left in Lightroom.

1. Original photo

2. Converted to B&W using Black and White Adjustment layer

3. Image #2 with vignette. I find it more pleasing than the one above but I still want our insights for improvement.

Also, Would the B&W Adjustment layer in PS suffice for all B&W conversions or are there better approaches? Thanks!

 

[Photographiend]

I like it best with out the vignette.

 

[KenC]

Looks pretty good. That bright doorway is distracting, but there's not much conversion can do for that. I use the adjustment layer. There are other ways, e.g., some people swear by converting from RGB to LAB color and then separating the L channel (brightness). Any book on PS will discuss a few methods.

 

[bunadski]

I agree with the distracting doorway, which is actually why I put the vignette. It also made the photo gloomier, enhancing the mood, I think. But I think I just overdid it though.

 

[topazsol]

Without the vignette looks way better.

 

[The_Traveler]

It works better for me if I adjust the tonality in color before conversion.
IMO, there is just too many bright things that take my eye away from his face.

 

[bunadski]

Thanks guys, all comments are noted. I am not yet familiar on how to adjust tonality before conversion to B&W, but I'll study that.

 

[The_Traveler]

I would lighten the face and darken the windows (and straighten the door frame) before converting.
Perhaps a different look.
?

 

[bunadski]

Thanks Lew, I failed to notice my doorframes aren't really vertical. As for the edit, maybe less contrast (but more than my orig conversion) is better IMHO. Also, some patches appeared on his face, can be corrected in the PP though.