Convert a Photo to Black and White with a Gradient Map Layer

This is a variation of the desaturate technique. It uses a gradient map instead of a hue/saturation layer with saturation set to -100. This often yields better result.

Here’s how to proceed:

  1. In the Layer palette select the layer containing the image to convert to black and white (most probably the background layer).

  2. Ensure that the foreground color is set to white and that the background color is set to black (default values).

  3. Create a new Hue/Saturation adjustment layer with the default settings; call it Hue.

  4. Create a new Gradient Map adjustment layer; let’s call this one Gradient Map.

  5. Select the Hue layer in the Layer palette.

  6. Double-click the Layer thumbnail of the Hue layer; this opens the Hue/Saturation dialog box for the Hue layer.

  7. Play with the Hue setting until you’re satisfied with the result.

  8. Click OK.

The following pictures show the effect of the gradient map technique with various Hue values:

Black & White (Original)
Original picture
Black & White (Gradient Map, Hue +0)
Gradient Map, Hue +0
Black & White (Gradient Map, Hue +40)
Gradient Map, Hue +40
Black & White (Gradient Map, Hue +180)
Gradient Map, Hue +180

— November 30th, 2007

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Older: Convert a Photo to Black and White with a Desaturate Layer

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