Simple Digital Soft Focus Technique

There is a super quick and easy way to create a nice soft focus effect using layers in your digital darkroom software. This effect can add a fairytale (as with the example image), glamorous, or romantic effect to your images depending on the subject.

Instructions

• Open the Image
  
• Create a Duplicate Layer
  
• Select the Top Layer
  
• Use the Gausian Blur Filter/Effect
  
• Set the Effect Strength to Around 50%
  
• Use the Layer Blending Controls to Select One of the Following:
  
  • Screen (Used in Example Image)
    
  • Multiply
    
  • Hard Light
    
  • Soft Light

If the image comes out too dark you can select the original (lower) layer and adjust the lighting until the desired effect is achieved.