B&W conversion critique please.

[Sam]

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y77/solinger/042005Jackson01.jpg

I was leaning towards a high key type effect. Did I just end up with a grey photo?

[rssfhs]

If you look at the histogram, you will see that the tonal range of your photo was almost entirely in the upper half. I used curves to give a bit wider range. It was a real quick job, but I think it looks better already:

[smittymike19]

i like the first one better. But even in that one the babys eyes are black, id like to see some more detail in the eyes.if possible. great looking child. good job

[Sam]

Thanks for the try rssfhs,

I lightened the picture intentionally so I knew it was not technically "correct". I am just not sure I did it right.

[mafrag]

personally I like softer high key images. But yours is also ok. This is just a variation

[rammy]

This is what you are trying to acheive:

http://www.retouchpro.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9990&highlight=high (http://www.retouchpro.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9990&highlight=high)

Follow grafx's suggestion on that strand.

[Sam]

Thanks for all the help. I am shooting for sharper images but I like the softer ones shot with a soft focus filter. I can never get it to look "right" when I use PS.

I think I am getting better at the high key type pictures... I only have 3 hot lights so it is a challenge but here is my latest attempt.
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y77/solinger/050205Jackson02.jpg

I noticed after the fact that I needed to smooth the background out a bit more. But I think I am on the right track.

[exposingmyself]

WHAT WONDERFUL BABY SHOTS! :D

You can do anything with a mug like that and people will just "drool" over him!

LOVE THAT BABY!!!