Is there a fast way to convert a bitmap image to a grayscale or binary image?

Question

I have tried the getpixel method and averaged the RGB components to get a gray scale value in for every pixel. This takes a few seconds as it goes through every pixel. However for my application time is critical. I am wondering if there is a fast way to achieve it. Thanks.

Sandy Lai · Answer

This is an excellent example and it is just what I needed. Thanks a lot.

Alan · Answer

Check out the second approach (with the amended ColorMatrix) in this Bob Powell article: http://www.bobpowell.net/grayscale.htm