In the world of photography, sometimes less is more. A simple yet striking way to draw attention to your subject is to convert the background of a photo to black and white, while leaving the subject in full color. This technique, known as partial colorization or selective colorization, can add drama, create contrast, and emphasize the main focus of the image. But how do you achieve this effect? In this article, we’ll delve into the various methods of making the background of a photo black and white, covering both manual and automated approaches for Photoshop, Lightroom, and online tools.
Understanding Color Channels
Before we dive into the techniques, it’s essential to understand the basics of color channels in digital photography. In a digital image, each pixel is made up of three color channels: Red (R), Green (G), and Blue (B). These channels combine to create the final color of each pixel. When we convert an image to black and white, we’re essentially removing the color information, leaving only the luminosity or brightness data.
Color to Grayscale Conversion
There are several ways to convert a color image to grayscale. The simplest method is to desaturate the image, which sets the saturation of all color channels to zero. This approach can result in a washed-out or flat grayscale image. A more sophisticated method is to use a weighted average of the color channels, where the luminosity of each pixel is calculated based on the relative sensitivities of the human eye to different colors. This method produces a more accurate and nuanced grayscale conversion.
Manual Method in Photoshop
If you’re comfortable working in Adobe Photoshop, you can achieve a stunning partial colorization effect using manual selection and layer blending modes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Duplicate the Background Layer
Open your image in Photoshop and duplicate the Background layer by pressing Ctrl+J (Windows) or Command+J (Mac). This will create a copy of the original layer, which we’ll use for the black and white conversion.
Step 2: Desaturate the Duplicate Layer
Select the duplicate layer and go to Image > Adjustments > Desaturate or press Ctrl+Shift+U (Windows) or Command+Shift+U (Mac). This will convert the entire layer to grayscale.
Step 3: Select the Subject
Use the Select and Mask workspace or the Adjustment Brush to select the subject of your image. For complex selections, you can use the Pen tool or the Select Subject feature in Photoshop CC 2020 and later.
Step 4: Invert the Selection and Mask the Background
Invert the selection by pressing Ctrl+I (Windows) or Command+I (Mac) and then create a layer mask by clicking on the “Add layer mask” button at the bottom of the Layers panel.
Step 5: Blend the Layers
Set the blending mode of the grayscale layer to “Soft Light” or “Overlay” to combine the two layers. Adjust the opacity of the grayscale layer to fine-tune the effect.
Automated Method in Lightroom
If you prefer working in Adobe Lightroom, you can achieve a similar effect using the Gradient Filter and Split Toning tools.
Step 1: Apply a Gradient Filter
Select the Gradient Filter tool and drag it across the image, covering the background area. In the Gradient Filter panel, set the “Amount” to 100 and the “Feather” to 0.
Step 2: Convert to Black and White
In the Basic panel, set the “Treatment” to “Black and White”. You can also use the “Tone Curve” panel to adjust the contrast and tone of the grayscale conversion.
Step 3: Apply Split Toning
In the Split Toning panel, set the “Highlight” and “Shadow” colors to a neutral tone, such as #808080. This will add a subtle warmth to the image.
Step 4: Adjust the Gradient Filter
Refine the gradient by adjusting the “Feather” and “Amount” sliders to create a natural-looking transition between the color and black and white areas.
Online Tools and Apps
If you don’t have access to Photoshop or Lightroom, or prefer a more straightforward solution, there are many online tools and apps that can help you achieve a partial colorization effect.
| Tool/App | Method | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|
| Canva | Selective colorization using a masking tool | Easiest |
| PicsArt | AI-powered magic erase tool and selective colorization | Easy |
| Fotor | Selective colorization using a brush tool | Medium |
| Lunapic | Manual masking and selective colorization | Challenging |
Tips and Variations
To take your partial colorization effect to the next level, consider the following tips and variations:
Adjust the Opacity and Blending Mode
In Photoshop, experiment with different blending modes and opacity settings to create unique and subtle effects.
Add a Vignette or Gradient
Use a vignette or gradient to draw attention to the subject and further separate it from the background.
Experiment with Different Color Combinations
Try converting the background to a complementary color of the subject, or use a bold contrasting color to create a striking effect.
Use Partial Colorization for Storytelling
Employ partial colorization to convey emotions, reinforce the subject’s mood, or emphasize the story behind the image.
In conclusion, making the background of a photo black and white is a powerful technique that can elevate your photography and communicate your message more effectively. Whether you prefer the manual approach in Photoshop, the automated method in Lightroom, or the convenience of online tools, with practice and patience, you can master this stunning effect. Remember to experiment with different methods and variations to find the perfect balance for your image.
What software do I need to turn a photo’s background black and white?
You’ll need a photo editing software that allows you to work with layers and selective adjustments. Adobe Photoshop is a popular choice among professionals, but you can also use free alternatives like GIMP or Canva. Additionally, some photo editing apps like Lightroom and Skylum Luminar also offer similar features.
Regardless of the software you choose, make sure you have a good understanding of its basic features and tools. This will help you navigate the process more efficiently and achieve the desired results. If you’re new to photo editing, it’s a good idea to start with some online tutorials or YouTube guides to get familiar with the software.
Can I turn any photo’s background black and white?
Technically, yes, you can turn any photo’s background black and white using the methods described in the article. However, the success of the process depends on the original image quality and the complexity of the background. If the background is very busy or has a lot of intricate details, it may be challenging to separate it from the subject.
In such cases, it’s essential to use advanced selection tools like the pen tool or the select and mask feature in Photoshop. These tools allow you to create precise selections and masks, making it easier to isolate the subject from the background. With practice and patience, you can achieve stunning results even with complex images.
How do I select the subject from the background?
There are several ways to select the subject from the background, depending on the image and the software you’re using. The most common methods include using the magic wand tool, the lasso tool, or the select and mask feature. You can also use the paintbrush tool to manually paint a mask around the subject.
Regardless of the method you choose, the key is to create a precise selection that separates the subject from the background. This may require some trial and error, especially if the subject has hair or other delicate features that are difficult to select. Take your time, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different tools and techniques until you get the desired results.
What if the background is very bright or reflective?
If the background is very bright or reflective, it may be challenging to turn it black and white while keeping the subject in color. In such cases, you may need to use additional tools and techniques to tone down the brightness or reflection.
One approach is to use the curves or levels adjustment tool to reduce the brightness of the background. You can also use the gradient tool to create a subtle gradient that blends the background with the subject. Additionally, you can use the orphaned layers feature in Photoshop to create a separate layer for the background, which allows you to make adjustments independently.
Can I turn the entire photo black and white instead?
Yes, you can turn the entire photo black and white instead of just the background. This is a great way to create a moody or timeless look, especially for portraits or landscape photos. To do this, simply use the desaturate or black and white adjustment tool in your software.
Keep in mind that converting an entire photo to black and white can sometimes lose the emotional impact of the original image. However, with the right subject and composition, a black and white photo can be incredibly powerful and evocative. Experiment with different conversion methods and techniques to find the one that works best for your image.
How do I save the edited photo for printing or sharing?
Once you’ve edited the photo, you’ll need to save it in a suitable format for printing or sharing. The ideal format depends on your intended use, but generally, you’ll want to save it as a high-resolution JPEG or PSD file.
For printing, make sure to save the file in the highest possible resolution, usually 300 dpi or higher. You may also want to save a copy in a smaller size for sharing on social media or email. Additionally, consider saving a copy of the original file, in case you need to revisit the edit or make further changes in the future.
Can I use this technique for commercial or professional purposes?
Yes, you can use this technique for commercial or professional purposes, such as editing photos for clients or submitting them to stock photo agencies. However, make sure you have the necessary permissions and rights to edit and use the original photos.
Additionally, be aware of any copyright or licensing restrictions that may apply to the original image or the edited version. Always follow industry standards and best practices when editing and sharing photos, and ensure you have the necessary releases and permissions from the subjects or creators of the original image.