Monday, March 12, 2012

Topaz Labs B&W Effects, Star Effects & Infrared Photography...

The Gas Works in Seattle, Washington is a quirky and cool place to spend an afternoon. The Gas Works overlooks the waterfront, and many people picnic, fly kites, read and relax with this curious structure in the background. It's definitely a can't miss location when traveling to Seattle!

This photo was taken with an infrared converted camera and converted to B&W using Topaz Labs B&W Effects. My work flow is simple, just like a color image, optimize/correct in Adobe Camera Raw or Nikon Capture NX2.  I look to see what works, what doesn't, and what can be improved in the image. Next in Photoshop, spotting, noise reduction and other basics are addressed. Lastly, the fun stuff, B&W conversion with Topaz Labs B&W Effects. This conversion tool gives you a lot of options for creativity, which makes it less work and more fun!

Tomorrow, March 13 at 5:00 EST, I'll be doing a webinar for Topaz Labs on infrared photography and B&W conversion. If you don't shoot in infrared, this is a great way to learn more about this wonderful way to create beautiful story telling imagery! I'll be touching on the absolutely amazing Star Effects too! I'll show you how you can work with Star Effects to create realistic stars, and fantasy fun effects too!  Register by clicking here, I hope to see you tomorrow!