Using Duotone Conversion
To Create Stunning
Black and White Images

When I first used this technique for creating black and white images from color images I was amazed ... not only by the image but by how easy it is to do!

It didn't seem right that so few steps could create such a stunning image. Here is how to use duotones to create an amazing image but I warn you ... if you love black and white images hang on to something solid when you first click the Preview button!

1. Open the color photograph you are going to convert.

2. Convert the color image to black and white by clicking Image > Mode > Grayscale.

   NOTE:
   You must use Image > Mode > Grayscale for the conversion from color. If you use Desaturate instead then the next step in the process will not be available. I don't know what the difference is between the two conversions but there is a difference. The first time I tried this technique I was using Desaturate and it almost made me crazy not being able to go any further. Finally I read the instructions ... thoroughly!

3. Click Image > Mode > Duotone and the Duotone Options dialogue will appear. Select the Type drop down and select Quadtone and then click Load.

   

   
   The next screen, Pantone(R) Quadtones has numerical selections. They all create a different effect. You can load each one and preview the end results until you find the preset you like the best. I think the best is the bottom one (Bl 541 513n 5773). Click on the one you have chosen and then click Load and then OK.

   Now sit back and critically analyze the final results. How do you like it?
   
   

   

   
   
   

This is easy to correct using local control. Create a new Soft Light or Overlay layer, select the "Fill with 50% gray box", and click OK. set your Default Colors D and make white the foreground color.

If you're not sure how to make adjustments to one part of your photo, then click local control to learn how to use this powerful technique with your Graphire.

Confirm that your pen is set to change Opacity with pressure and carefully paint in the darkest places where there shoud be some detail.

The following pictures are the original color shot, the Grayscale conversion and the Duotone conversion. Which do you like the best?

Grayscale	Duotone

Return to Black and White main page from Duotone page.