Big day. Nik Software just released their second generation of Silver Efex Pro. This plug-in for Photoshop, Lightroom, and Aperture is widely regarded as the best in the biz for high-end black and white conversions. And for good reason. It looks simply amazing. Tonnes of control and the ability to simulate traditional black and white film stock.
I needed to do something to test the new engine so jumped into my (way long overdue for completing) France catalogue. This scene from the amazing palace in Versailles was the first thing I saw and thought it would be a good candidate for conversion.
To wit:
After a neutral raw conversion this took a hit of Nik Dfine to clean it up, Nik Sharpener Pro to give 'er edge, and then Silver Efex Pro 2 for the final conversion. New to the engine is greater control for individual tones. What's really cool is the edge generator to simulate raw film edges. Looks very cool.
This will be printing out tonight on Epson Exhibition Fiber which rules for black and white images. Thanks Nik!
Wow. Awesome composition and it DOES look like one of the Masters' works.
ReplyDeleteI'm convinced. I am going to have to give this a whirl.