Digital BW, The Print

Hello all;

Sorry if I'm getting back on this on a bit late, but I haven't had 
the time to keep up lately.

The tecnique described at the 'Luminous Landscape' links probably 
works, but I think this way is simpler and more comprehensible:
a)go into 'quick mask' mode
b) select the gradient tool, with a circular (or any other shape you 
need) black to clear or black to white gradient.
c)start at the center, draw the gradient across to either side, 
release to form a gradient-mask. 
d)go out of mask-mode to normal, the mask will become a graduated 
selection, which you can then put on a curves adjustment layer and 
adjust to your heart's content.
 Notes: the main advantage to this method is the fact that the mask 
mode allows you to see clearly how the gradient is shaped. Adjusting 
the sliders in the gradient adj. dialogue gives you great control 
over the fall-off. If you need an oval not a circle, use the oval 
selection tool (still in mask-mode) with a huge amount of feathering-
200 or 250 pixels. If you make your canvas square, (temporarily) the 
fall-off pattern will be much more similar to that of a real 
centerfilter, since the lens and the filter are actually circles. 
When you crop it back to your rectangle, you will have a selection 
shape almost identical to the centerfilter, with the added advantage 
(in color) of beng able to control the color balance in the corners 
as well as the density and contrast. 

Regards,

Steve Karafyllakis

www.stevekphoto.com