Conversion

What is the best way to convert a color photo to black and white? Some say use the mixer channel. Some say use a plug in preset (ex. silver efex pro). Some say just desaturate ( which I find bland). I came across this way a bit ago Step 1 dup. layer. Step 2 blending mode - soft light Step 3 black and white Step 4 play with sliders Step 5 opacity.

So what is a preferred style? Not sure how to copy the link to flickr.

This is exactly how I envisioned this shot while setting it up. I used a preset in silver efex pro. I like the dark areas , but where there are some detail. I like the way the contrast is in this one and the way the limbs are darker on the right. My only problem with this photo is the needles on the bottom right hand corner aren't in focus. But that can be fixed.

Thank you in advance for sharing your comments and tips.