B&W Conversion

[drisley]

I don't have alot of experience with b&w conversion. But, most of the information I've read has said that it's important to maintain information in the highlights, and use the best possible "filter" to highlight contrast/tones in important areas.
This was one of my first b&w attempts using Photoshop and Color Mixer Technique. I decided to reduce the red channel as the trim on the gloves and gear were read, so I wanted to make them dark.
I did my best at saving highlight areas, but that made the image rather bland. So, I kicked the contrast up a notch, and finally added a selenium tone and reduced it (by desaturation) by about 70%.
Any comments or helpful tips would be appreciated.
The original can be found here (http://www.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/cricketmem09262004/MG_1869.jpg).
Thanks in advance.

http://www.fotop.net/albums/sharpnsmart/cricketmem09262004/MG_1869_bw.jpg

[timmyquest]

Strictly looking at the B&W conversion, i think you did a fantastic job.

[Radtech1]

Did you try to do anything with the shadow under the cap? For me, that is a problem. I feel that it is too dark. On the original, there is information there - perhaps you could try to see if you could bring that out.

Rad

[drisley]

Thanks for your comments. I really appreciate it.
At first that shadow bugged me too. But then I thought it was a rather neat effect.
However, I will try what you suggest. I think I will use the Shadow/Highlight tool and then selectively bring out the detail in that area with either a mask, or history brush.

Thanks again. :)

[vchavez]

Drisley coud you put a Photoshop Step by Step example.

I will apreciate it.

Thanks!

[drisley]

Drisley coud you put a Photoshop Step by Step example. I will apreciate it.
Thanks!
Would you like info on the b&w conversion? Or how I would reduce the shadow under the guy's face?

[vchavez]

B&W conversion Only Please.

Thanks!

[timmyquest]

B&W conversion Only Please.

Thanks!

http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=34977&highlight=black+white

That should help a tad 8)

[vchavez]

Timm thanks for the links

Drisley I'm still interested in your tutorial I liked a lot the tone and contrast that's the one I'm looking for.

[drisley]

Thanks for the post timmyquest (BTW, I still LOVE that first picture of the cowgirl).
That is the method I use most often. Actually, I use the Russell Brown Action.
This time I used the Color Mixer technique