How about this then, it took little work so even if it is ok and liked I am not sure I have learnt anything

You've learnt how to create a mono - isn't that what you wanted?

If not you need to be more specific

Thing is Azz sometimes people will say "that is a good conversion" or "well done, nice conversion" so I assume that there is some skill involved other than clicking a button and adjusting the tone and contrast and I want to know what it is.

When I look at most mono conversions I do not understand why the photographer thinks it is better in mono than colour but just sometimes it works and I want to know why.

I'm not usually considered to lack perception so why can't I understand why a particular shot is considered good once converted but not in it's original state, I recall one of some gates that BC did, that did look right as a mono and better than in colour but BC said he had alway intended it to be viewed in mono and indeed I could see why.

So in answer to your question, yes I can make a shot into a mono, any idiot could but I want to know what makes a good conversion and what is the criteria for deciding a particular shot should be in mono and not the natural colour. If it is just an artistic decision then why is it the conversion that is described as good.

Some subjects are better complimented by (the lack of) colour - hence why some just look better in mono. Of course there are other things you can do with mono conversion too, just as adjusting light/dark areas, sharpening etc.

I guess the biggest thing is knowing WHEN to mono and when not to.

It's OK Jackie, I'm in exactly the same boat... I wish I could offer some help, but I flounder too - digital mono, for me, never looks as good as film.

xx

Think you may have helped Z, that is my problem I think I am trying for the sort of look I could get in a dark room and it is not there, even in the shots of those who only use mono there is something not quite right.

So may be that is why in most cases I think why did they make that mono as I am sure the colour would look better, rarely you see a shot that looks good in mono and that is invariable almost there anyway when you see the colour version.

So far I am pleased with my edit in this months Patches challenge and it is not even my work but that means I did not take it with mono in mind so my memory of the original is not there.

Think I may try taking some in mono and see how that feels.

That's a good idea... I think we should have 'Snapper's Challenge' - take shots in mono!

xx