How to Fix Flat Contrast Photograph Using Adobe Photoshop

If you have a “flat” black and white photograph, meaning one that appears overall Grey and with no deep black or bright white tones, you can easily fix it in Adobe Photoshop.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Photograph
• Scanner
• Adobe Photoshop

1. Scan your photograph, save it and open the image in Photoshop
2. Go to the Image Pull-down menu. Select “Adjustments” then “Brightness/Contrast.”
3. The pop-up window that appears will allow you to make the necessary adjustments. If your photo appears too dark, increase the brightness above "0" in increments of 10. If it appears too light, decrease the brightness below "0" in increments of 10. What you are looking for here is an overall evenness of tone, one that is not too light or too dark.
4. Next, and in the same pop-up window, increase your contrast above "0" in increments of 10. What you are looking for here is a clear distinction between highlights and shadows. You will know your black and white photograph has good contrast when you see white highlights, deep dark shadows and every tone of Grey in between.