Selective Colourization

In this hand out you  will learn how to convert a color photograph to a B&W one with colour restored to selective area. The basic technique is to duplicate the colour photograph, convert the duplicate to B&W, and paste it as a new layer on top of the colour image. Add an opaque layer mask and then selectively paint transparency into the upper mask, exposing the color photograph underneath.

Step 1 :
Open an image into GIMP. Here I open a red apple with a green leaf. We are going to make the red portion of the apple to  B&W with colour restored to green leaf.










Step 2 :
Duplicate the image using the path image → duplicate from menu bar (shortcut Ctrl+D). You can also duplicate by right click the mouse on the image and select image → duplicate.












Step 3:
 You can convert the picture in to B&W using the path Image → Mode → Grayscale







Step 4:
Once you have gotten the B&W version that you like, change it back to RGB mode (Image → Mode → RGB).















Step 5:
In the original image window create a new layer with name black and white.
Step 6:
Go to the B&W image and select all, then copy (Ctrl+A then Ctrl+C).
Then go to the color image window and paste (Ctrl+V).
 The B&W image should be pasted into the new black and white layer.























Step 7:
Click the anchor button in the Layers dialog to anchor the pasted image.


























Step 8:
Right-click on the B&W layer and select “Add Layer Mask”.
In the Add Mask Options dialog, select White (Full Opacity).


Step 9:
Select the paint tool . Begin painting the interior of the parts you want to be in color. When you get to the edges of the colored part, zoom in and paint at the boundaries . Switch to a small, feathered brush and very carefully paint the edges.

















Step 10:
After completing the above task you will get a black and white picture with one area coloured.