on b&w conversion… i use CS3… it has superb capabilities in producing beautiful b&w images:
1. use b&w sliders (under image>adjustment)… adjust until your subject stands out
2. apply level and curve… don’t make it too contrasty
3. apply FILM GRAIN (under filter>artistic)… this is the secret… it emulates film-like qualities to your image… but not too much [...]