[Leica] Query re B&W photography in digital

[hoppyman at bigpond.net.au (G Hopkinson)]

Tom, my processes are still entirely hybrid, that is scanning to get the 
images into the digital domain. I would like to add a
couple of thoughts on the filters/conversion options. Is a UV filter not 
working for you to reduce any haze effect in the distance?
I recommend retaining all of the original RGB information wherever from, 
when you plan to make a bw picture. This gives you the most
flexibility. As you know the channels can be mixed and you have control of 
the ratio. It is very easy to preview and compare the
grey tone from each channel with PS.
May I also suggest that you try the Pixel Genius Photokit plug-ins for PS? 
The colour to bw set offers a good selection of pre-tuned
selections. Good also for bw toning. You can download a free trial. I am 
sure that some other plug-ins offer similar ideas. This one
is inexpensive, I thought.
Finally I strongly recommend a book that Tina initially introduced to the 
LUG. I have found it invaluable.
"Black and White Photography Techniques with Adobe Photoshop" by Maurice 
Hamilton, Amherst Media.

Cheers
Hoppy

-----Original Message-----
Subject: [Leica] Query re B&W photography in digital

Here is a questions for all of you artists of the monochrome medium  
who have made the digital transition --
a question which I have not found the answer to elsewhere --

I understand that you can duplicate the effect of yellow-red-orange- 
green contrast filters by manipulating curves in PS or other  
software, but my question is whether there remains any advantage to  
using the glass filters on the lens in the first place if you intend  
to make a monochrome image?

For example, in addition to changing the relative values of the sky  
or foliage or skin with filters, haze penetration is another benefit  
to using a red, orange, or to lesser extent, yellow, filter -- i.e.  
do you still get haze penetration effects by dialing down the blue  
channel?

Thanks for you insight,

Tom Schofield



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