bestphotolessons

When converting digital colour images to black and white, I have three ways that generally work the best. I should point out I'm using Photoshop, and these methods may or may not have equivalents in other programs.

First, and one that's very popular, is to use the "Channel Mixer" - you can either create an Adjustment Layer in the "Layers" pallet, or by going to the menu and pulling down "Image > Adjustments > Channel Mixer." You click on the "Monochrome" button at the bottom of the dialog box, and mix the Red, Green and Blue channels to make your image have the correct tones. Generally 60 Red, 30 Green and 10 Blue is a good starting point, but try 100 of each - one at a time - and see which channel has the details you want to feature. I generally find that mostly using Red is good for skin tones as it clears up a lot of blemishes.

A second way is to convert the image to LAB mode (Image > Mode > LAB Colour), then in the Channels Pallet turn off the A and B channels. Finally, go back to Image > Mode and convert to Greyscale, when the dialog box comes up asking if you want to delete the other channels, say yes.

Third is to find a script that automates conversions to something like pseudo infra-red. There's also some that can simulate any top black and white film. These are quick and easy, although good ones can cost a few dollars - some are free so do a search for "Photoshop Actions" and see what you can find.
[url=http://
www.fredmiranda.com/software/]www.fredmiranda.com/software/[/url] has the BW Workflow Pro plugin which gives you lots of control for $29.90 US.