Lightening black to grey in only a portion of the photo

[SAEngraver]

Hello,
I engrave photos onto granite. http://www.granitephotoengravers.com
It happens that I must engrave a black image on black granite - this is difficult as the black becomes part of the background.

Here blow is my modis operandi I follow to try and achieve this.
I use pspx7 Actions...open >Enhance photo>smart photo fix. I now use the slides on the side to make the adjustment to bring the black cap
(see photo herewith) to a shade of grey which engraves nicely. I have done this using the "overall" slide.
The problem is that it has leached all detail and contrast from the face.
Question, What sequence of actions must I follow to get a layer which will allow me to reset the face without interfering with the cap already set to required lightness. Please remember I am a rookie at this - so a point by point work flow to allow me to practice would be greatly appreciated.
I have add in Topaz B&W as well.
Thank you

[DPainter]

I had a play with what you posted. I edited a number of layer duplicates to achieve this. Only spend 10 minutes or so on it.


But to achieve what your after I'd have to teach myself before teaching you. Never had the need to do what your looking to do. Though I'm sure it could be done easily enough.
I've used psp for years and still there are tools and features I've never used.

[Jean-Luc]

Could you post the original photo ? If in colors, don't make it black and white.
I think I have a solution:
Split channels to RGB and select the Blue image.
Follow with:
Adjust/Brightness../Fill Light-Clarity and play with the Fill Light slider.
Like the attached...
Jean-Luc