I'm just coming to the end of my trial version of Silver Efex Pro which is really sad as this is awesome software but unfortunately it's incredibly expensive & I can't afford the full version :(
What other software would anyone recommend for B&W?
I see there is a Topaz Adjust & a separate Topaz B&W Effects package, has anybody used either of these as I see they are way cheaper than Silver Efex!?!
If anyone does use either of these do they have any examples for us to see?
Hi Sarah, You can download a 30-day trial for the Topaz software too and give them a try. Topaz Adjust is brilliant for detail enhancement, but it's not really for b&w conversion.
I had a play with B&W Effects about a year ago when I trialled the whole Topaz bundle and thought it was pretty good, but I already owned Silver Efex so didn't pursue it.
I use Topaz Adjust. Absolutely amazing software. There's a bit of a subtle learning curve to it, but once you get the hang of it the results are amazing.
@sjodell Sarah, I use Topaz Adjust for color, but also to prep the image for black and white. I do the following in PSE for the black & white conversion, though:
1. Apply a black and white gradient map in color blend mode.
2. Add a sepia photo filter as a layer above the gradient map.
Now everything else I do is in layers between the filter and the map.
3. Add a levels adjustment to bring out a true white and a true black range. I'll also adjust the midtones a bit.
4. Add a brightness / contrast adjustment if necessary, to soften the harsh division between the darks and lights.
If I need to change the contrast even more, I'll add a hue adjustment below the gradient map and play with that slider. It's amazing the impact that will have on the overall composition.
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I had a play with B&W Effects about a year ago when I trialled the whole Topaz bundle and thought it was pretty good, but I already owned Silver Efex so didn't pursue it.
1. Apply a black and white gradient map in color blend mode.
2. Add a sepia photo filter as a layer above the gradient map.
Now everything else I do is in layers between the filter and the map.
3. Add a levels adjustment to bring out a true white and a true black range. I'll also adjust the midtones a bit.
4. Add a brightness / contrast adjustment if necessary, to soften the harsh division between the darks and lights.
If I need to change the contrast even more, I'll add a hue adjustment below the gradient map and play with that slider. It's amazing the impact that will have on the overall composition.
@kannafoot Thanks Ron, I think I'll def try out the trial :)