How do I change a single layer to grayscale in Photoshop CS4?

Question

I know you can have the whole image turn grayscale: Image > Mode > Grayscale, but what if I only want to make specific layers grayscale? There's gotta be an easier way than pulling out the layers you want to turn grayscale to a new image, grayscaling, and then pasting them back in.

Answer

Depends...on why you want to go greyscale.

To create identical layer in greyscale...

Layer > Duplicate Layer > Hue/Saturation > DeSat

To create adjustable greyscale layer...

Layer > Duplicate Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Hue/Saturation > DeSat > (when done) Merge Layer

For tons more control...

Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Black & White. You can tweak every color channel in greyscale. Very cool.

For FABULOUS toning of B/W images with a little less work than B/W layer. (This is my secret, guard with your life)

**Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Hue/Saturation > Blend Mode Color:

Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Hue/Saturation > Sat -100 >

Go back to first Hue/Sat Layer (the one in color blend mode) double click on layer window to open then tweek the Hue. Viola, instant Zone system!

To answer your question, click on the layer you want to greyscale and use any of these methods, then select your adjustment layers and active layer and merge down through Layer > Merge Down or on a Mac Command + E.

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