How can I make these images "pop"

[gardengirl13]

I'm still trying to figure this new camera out. I took these in color and converted them to B&W with the channel mixer, tweaked them a bit, the used the unsharp mask. But I still can't quite get the look I'm going for. I'm debating whether or not to upgrade to the Pro1. I'm not sure I want to go DSLR, I kind of like the ease of not having all the lenses and weight! But I'm not sure if these images would come out the same on the Pro1. Meaning is it worth the extra money, or should I stick with this one.

But anyway, here are the images...

http://inside.bard.edu/~troost/12thstB&W2.jpg

http://inside.bard.edu/~troost/oldbarnB&W2.jpg

http://inside.bard.edu/~troost/rhi2.jpg


Thanks for any advice you may have!

[cool_dude07]

What is the effect you are after? I like these photos, especially the staircase...

Tyler

[G M Fude]

Yeah I like the photos too, gardengirl. Are you looking for a grittier appearance? I think maybe a bit of artificial grain would perhaps help (but I've no idea how to do that in post processing) and maybe a bit more contrast to go with that. I don't think it's lack of capability of the camera or your skills at all.

[kbyrd8455]

I love the stair shot It seems that you are getting along with you camera pretty well. I think in your case your are you worst critic.

[frs]

You could try selecting different areas of the photo (lasso tools, then feather the edges) and working on them seperately.

heres a great thread on working on B&W photos-
Q&A session with martin- b&w photography

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=87784

thanks