How to make an image black and white in Photoshop.
To create an impression reminiscent of a bygone era or to draw attention to your subject, use black and white images for effects that full-color photos can’t match.
Vibrant colors enrich our lives. But, when it comes to photography, color can be distracting. If you want to draw attention to lines, shapes, and textures, try converting an image to black and white. It’s a simple process to strip out just enough color to make your photos more interesting.
How to make a B&W filter in Photoshop
To create black and white images in Photoshop, you need control over your light and dark levels. Follow these simple steps:
- Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Black & White will allow you to adjust the light level of the colors that make up your image. Here you can strip out all but the gray tones.
- Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Levels is where you find controls for adjusting the light and dark levels of the input and output channels. You can experiment with these controls to create stunning black and white images.
- This additional step will allow you to draw even more attention to a focal point within your image. Make a selection around your focal point using the elliptical marquee tool and invert the selection, so it is no longer visible in that layer. Next, apply a gaussian blur to the edges of your inverted selection. This will create an effect with less light around the edges of the image and more light around your focal point.
Whether you are trying to create a retro look, a mysterious or even spooky effect, or draw special attention to certain aspects of your subject, use black and white filters to eliminate or subdue distracting colors.
Discover other helpful photo techniques.
Explore the many ways you can make your images more interesting using the filters available in Adobe Photoshop.