It is very easy to convert a color photo into a black and white photo.  There are several methods to do this, but this tutorial focuses on the Hue/Saturation Tool. 

Not all color photos will look good as a black and white photo.  Look for photos with good contrast and natural lighting.  Photos with a light source from the side usually look great as black and white images. (See example at right). 

What you’ll need:

• Adobe Elements 2.0 or Photoshop 7.0 or higher

• Photograph in digital format

 You’ll learn how to:

• Use the Hue/Saturation command to create a BW photo

• Use the Levels tool to improve the contrast

Open Adobe Photoshop or Photoshop Elements.

Open your Photo.

Choose File > Open and browse your system for photo.

Click photo of choice and then choose Open.

We are going to use the Hue/Saturation command to change this color photo to BW.  There are several other ways to do this, but this method is simple and produces good results.

Choose Enhance>Adjust Color> Hue/Saturation.

(Keyboard shortcut CTRL+U)

In the Hue/Saturation box, drag the arrow under “Saturation” all the way to the left.

This removes the color from the image.

Press OK.

You now have a black and white photo, but there is one more quick step that can really enhance the highlights and shadows.

Choose Enhance > Adjust Brightness/Contrast > Levels.

(Keyboard shortcut CTRL+L)

Click on the right arrow below the Histogram, and drag it towards the center. This will lighten the highlights.

Click on the left arrow below the Histogram, and drag it towards the center. This will darken the shadows.

Move the arrows very slowly. Don’t make drastic changes with the levels tool or your photo will start to look artificial. 

Press OK.

Now you have a nice Black and White photo with good contrast.

Tip: Be sure to save the new photo with a different name so you can always go back to the color version.