Open the color photo you want to convert.
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Convert a color photo to Grayscale mode
Last updated on
Oct 27, 2025
Learn how to convert a color photo to Grayscale mode in Adobe Photoshop to remove color information and reduce file size.
Grayscale mode represents images using only black, white, and shades of gray. This reduces file size but also discards color data, which cannot be recovered. If you want more control, use a Black & White adjustment layer instead. This retains color information and lets you map colors to specific gray values.
Before you begin
Save a backup copy in case you need to restore color later.
Select Image > Mode > Grayscale from the menu bar.
Select Discard when prompted to remove color information. Photoshop converts the photo to black, white, and shades of gray.
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