(PS - The original PAD version was - http://www.pbase.com/image/93947073 - a color vs. B&W demo comparison. A day later I decided to make an actual image, the one you see here, rather than the pure demo.)
The PAD tulips from a week or two ago are way past prime but make interesting subjects nevertheless.
This started as an experiment in trying to make this image be all that it can be in terms of color, exposure and focus. The RAW file was processed in Capture NX and Nik Color Efex Pro concentrating on making the contrast pop. Once the color image was complete, I tried a B&W conversion and then couldn't decide which to post as the PAD. Took the easy way out.
Wish I had a decent new printer with good B&W capability. I tried for black blacks & white whites and gradations across the entire tonal range. Didn't lose too much detail at the extremes. It would be nice to see how well the new printers handle this - well, I'm sure.