1. The Graduated Filter (for specific tonal areas):
This method allows you to apply split toning to specific parts of the image, like the sky or foreground.
* Steps:
* Convert to Black and White: If your image isn't already black and white, convert it by going to the Basic panel and dragging the Saturation slider to -100. Alternatively, use a Black & White profile in the Profile Browser.
* Select the Graduated Filter: Click on the Graduated Filter icon in the top toolbar (or press G).
* Draw the Gradient: Click and drag on the image to create the gradient area. Adjust the position and length of the gradient by dragging the handles.
* Adjust Hue and Saturation: In the Graduated Filter panel, find the Color swatch. Click on it to open the color picker. Choose a color for the highlights or shadows *within that gradient*.
* Fine-Tune: Adjust the Saturation slider in the Graduated Filter panel to control the intensity of the color.
* Repeat: Create additional Graduated Filters to apply different tones to other areas of the image.
* Advantages:
* Precise control over the location of the split tones.
* Can be used to target specific areas like skies, water, or skin tones.
* Disadvantages:
* Can be time-consuming if you need to apply many gradients.
2. The Adjustment Brush (for even more targeted control):
Similar to the Graduated Filter, but allows you to paint in the split toning effect.
* Steps:
* Convert to Black and White: Same as above.
* Select the Adjustment Brush: Click on the Adjustment Brush icon in the top toolbar (or press K).
* Adjust Brush Settings: Set the brush Size, Feather, Flow, and Density to your liking. A larger Feather will create softer transitions. Use the Auto Mask option if you're working with defined edges.
* Paint on the Image: Paint over the areas where you want to apply the split tone.
* Adjust Hue and Saturation: In the Adjustment Brush panel, find the Color swatch. Click on it to open the color picker. Choose a color for the highlights or shadows *within your brushed area*.
* Fine-Tune: Adjust the Saturation slider in the Adjustment Brush panel to control the intensity of the color.
* Repeat: Create additional Adjustment Brushes to apply different tones to other areas of the image.
* Advantages:
* Extremely precise control – paint exactly where you want the effect.
* Good for targeting complex shapes and details.
* Disadvantages:
* Can be time-consuming and requires careful painting.
* Requires practice to achieve natural-looking results.
3. Using Presets:
* Browse or Create: Explore pre-made split toning presets (either built-in or downloaded) or create your own. Many online resources offer free and paid Lightroom presets.
* Apply and Adjust: Apply the preset and then fine-tune the settings in the Develop module to your liking.
* Advantages:
* Quick and easy to apply a consistent look.
* Good starting point for creating your own custom split tones.
* Disadvantages:
* Presets might not always be perfectly suited to every image. Requires some adjustment.
Tips for Success:
* Subtlety is Key: Start with very low saturation values and gradually increase them. Overly saturated split tones can look artificial.
* Complementary Colors: Consider using complementary colors (opposite each other on the color wheel) for highlights and shadows for a more dramatic effect (e.g., warm highlights and cool shadows).
* Experiment: Don't be afraid to try different color combinations and saturation levels to find what works best for your image.
* Use Masks: Combined with the Split Toning panel, masks (especially luminosity masks created with range masking in Lightroom Classic) can give you even more nuanced control over where the tones are applied.
* Consider the Subject: Think about the mood and emotion you want to convey with your image when choosing your split tones.
* Sharpening: Split toning can sometimes slightly soften an image, so you may need to adjust sharpening accordingly.
* Use the Color Grading Panel in Lightroom Classic (version 9.0 and later): This is the *preferred* method for most users since version 9.0. It allows you to adjust shadows, midtones, and highlights separately with Hue, Saturation, and Luminance controls. It's much more intuitive and flexible than the old Split Toning panel. To use, find the Color Grading panel and select the relevant color wheel (Shadows, Midtones, Highlights, or Global). Adjust the Hue and Saturation of the color wheel for your target tonal area.
* Split Toning Panel (Older versions of Lightroom): If you're using an older version of Lightroom (pre-9.0), you'll be using the older "Split Toning" panel. It's found in the Develop module. This panel offers separate Hue and Saturation sliders for both Highlights and Shadows. You can also adjust the "Balance" slider to favor either the highlights or shadows in the split toning effect. While older, it's still capable, just less refined than the newer Color Grading panel.
By understanding these methods and experimenting with different settings, you can create stunning split-toned black and white images in Lightroom. Remember to practice and develop your own style!