How to Convert Photo to Black and White with One Color Using Photoshop

Is there a way to transform a photo into a black and white version while retaining one single, vibrant color in Photoshop? Absolutely, and we will explore various techniques to achieve this effects using both Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Let's dive in and see how you can create a monochromatic image with a colorful accent!

Monochromatic Images: Aesthetic and Practical Considerations

A monochromic image typically refers to an image that uses a single hue and its various shades, commonly seen in black and white photography. However, the term also applies to images that use a single color or its variations. In the world of digital editing, we can take advantage of tools like Photoshop to create this look. The term monochrome comes from the Greek word monochromos, meaning "one color." In essence, it’s about creating an image that is predominantly one color or a range of shades of that color.

When converting an image to black and white, the process involves removing all colors, leaving only shades of gray. However, if you want to retain a specific hue, you can use tools and techniques to selectively reintroduce color, enhancing the overall visual appeal and creative expression of your image.

Tools and Methods in Photoshop

Let's explore the steps using both Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to achieve a monochromatic image with a featured color:

1. Converting to Black and White in Photoshop

To convert a photo to black and white in Photoshop:

Select the Photo: Choose the photo you want to convert. Grayscale Conversion: Head to Edit Convert to Grayscale or use the Image mode Grayscale options. Selective Color Retention: Use the Adjustment Brush tool to selectively reintroduce color. This allows you to highlight specific hues and keep the rest of the image in grayscale.

2. Super Quick Method

Super Quick Steps:

Quick Selection Tool: Click on the object that needs to stay colored using the Quick Selection Tool (W). Inverse the Selection: Press Ctrl I (Windows) or Cmd I (Mac) to inverse the selection. Desaturate: Go to Image Adjustments Desaturate. Result: The selected area will retain its color, while the rest of the image will be desaturated to black and white.

3. Bit More Time Consuming Method

Creating a Black and White Layer

New Adjustment Layer: Go to Layer New Adjustment Layer Black White. This will create a layer with a full black and white overlay over your image. Adjust Brightness and Contrast: Go to Image Adjustments Brightness and Contrast and adjust these settings to refine the black and white conversion. Select Layer Mask: Ensure that the mask looks like the one shown in the image. Color Accentuation: Choose a soft black brush and draw over the objects that you want to appear colored. If the mask is selected and you paint black over it, it creates "holes" in the mask, allowing the colored objects from the background layer to appear.

4. Duplicate and Desaturate Method

If you want to go the extra mile, you can follow these steps:

Duplicate the Layer: Duplicate your image in a new layer. Desaturate the Image: Use the Deselect tool (W) and go to Image Adjustment Desaturate. Select Your Accent Colour: Use the Select Color Tool to select the color you want to retain. Invert Your Selection: Use the Invert Selection tool to select the unwanted colors. Touch Ups: Go to the Adjustments panel and click on the Black White adjustment icon to apply the final touch and ensure the desired color is prominent.

Why Photoshop for this Task?

Photoshop is an excellent tool for advanced image editing tasks, including monochromatic photography and selective color retention. The software offers powerful tools for both beginners and professionals, making it a go-to solution for color editing in photography. Whether you are working on a single photo for personal use or a project that requires professional standards, Photoshop's feature set is unmatched.

Conclusion

Transforming a photo to black and white with one vibrant color can dramatically enhance the aesthetic appeal of your images. By utilizing Photoshop and its various tools, you can achieve a sophisticated and visually striking result. The methods mentioned above will help you create a monochromatic image with a highlighted color, ensuring that your photos stand out in any context. Happy editing!