Trying to figure out how to make a black and white background while at the same time keeping my subject (forground) in color. I understand it can be done in CS@, anyone know how?
Posted by Rob Theoret on March 28, 2006 at 1:21 AM
Hi Daniel,
In regards to your question, yes it can be done. I use PS CS2
Try the following.
1) Use the LASSO or MAGNETIC LASSO tool to draw around the colored subject.
2) Choose the SELECT from the dropdown menu and click on INVERSE, this changes the active selection.
3) Choose the IMAGE dropdown menu and then go down to ADJUSTMENT and select DESATURATE
The only hard part is when you use the lasso tool. A steady mouse movement will help. (I use a WACOM tablet for this type of work, its more precise). But I think you get the drift.
PS If you send me your email address, I can send you some samples of photos that I have done with the color selection.
another option is to create a Channel Mixer Adjustment Layer, click the "monochrome" box and adjust the three channels to your liking for the background. This gives you a lot more control over the the black and white conversion.
Then just use a black brush to mask the b/w effect on your foreground to reveal the color. (a layer mask is created with the adjustment layer)
Some people find that using a layer mask is a lot quicker than making a selection. Using a layer mask also makes it much easier to correct any mistakes on the mask (just switch to a white brush to paint the b/w effect back in). Also, using a layer mask you have options with the brush such as size, hardness/softness, opacity, etc.
Discussion
2 repliesIn regards to your question, yes it can be done. I use PS CS2
Try the following.
1) Use the LASSO or MAGNETIC LASSO tool to draw around the colored subject.
2) Choose the SELECT from the dropdown menu and click on INVERSE, this changes the active selection.
3) Choose the IMAGE dropdown menu and then go down to ADJUSTMENT and select DESATURATE
The only hard part is when you use the lasso tool. A steady mouse movement will help. (I use a WACOM tablet for this type of work, its more precise). But I think you get the drift.
PS If you send me your email address, I can send you some samples of photos that I have done with the color selection.
Happy colorring.
Regards,
Rob Theoret
Then just use a black brush to mask the b/w effect on your foreground to reveal the color. (a layer mask is created with the adjustment layer)
Some people find that using a layer mask is a lot quicker than making a selection. Using a layer mask also makes it much easier to correct any mistakes on the mask (just switch to a white brush to paint the b/w effect back in). Also, using a layer mask you have options with the brush such as size, hardness/softness, opacity, etc.