The Importance of a Custom Black and White Conversion

I know a lot of people wonder why I don't suggest they do any automatic black and white conversions, so let me explain.  Not only is it illegal to alter a copyrighted photograph in any way, the automatic black and white conversions that photo software or printing labs do is simply of poor quality.  Automatic black and white conversions made by photo software on your computer and printing labs simply convert a color image into a grayscale image.  Images converted this way appear very dull and flat-looking.  A good true black and white image needs to have just that--true, dark, rich blacks and true, bright, clean whites.  This is easily accomplished with a RAW image file by adjusting the tone curves.  Additionally, every image is unique and requires a different amount of adjustments to produce a satisfactory black and white image.

Automatic conversion on top, Custom conversion on bottom.

Automatic Conversion                                                                                     Custom Black and White Conversion

Notice how the custom conversions make the eyes really pop and sparkle.  There's more depth and texture when properly converted.