Select Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Black & White.
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Convert a color image to black and white
Last updated on
Oct 28, 2025
Learn how to transform images in Adobe Photoshop for a black and white look without the distraction of color.
Color photography is indispensable when colors and shades in your image are vivid and distinctive, revealing fine details. Black and white photography, on the other hand, helps emphasize the subject and textures without distraction and adds drama to your images.
In the New Layer dialog box, type a name for the adjustment layer and select OK.
Photoshop applies a default grayscale conversion to your image.
Fine tune your results in the Properties panel by selecting the Black & White icon:
- Preset: Select a predefined grayscale mix or a saved custom mix. Select the menu icon > Save Black & White Preset to save the preset.
- Auto: Set a grayscale mix based on your image's color values.
- Tint: Select the checkbox and then the color swatch to choose a subtle tone color from the Color Picker (Tint Color).
- Color sliders: Drag sliders to adjust gray tones for specific colors.
Select and drag On-image adjustment
icon onto the image to adjust tones.
Select reset
icon to return to defaults.
Save and share your results.
Share your results in the Adobe Photoshop community and on social media. Don't forget to tag Adobe Photoshop and hashtag your image with #blackandwhitephotoshop.
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