How can I create a soft, smoky glow or blur effect like in fashion campaigns?
Asked 3/21/2018
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I’m trying to identify the soft, hazy glow effect seen in some fashion images, where highlights bloom and the image looks slightly blurred or smoky. Is this usually created with a lens filter, something placed in front of the lens, a film look, or post-processing? What are common ways to achieve it?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
8y ago
2 Answers
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In the 70s that effect was called 'flu', and was made putting cellophane or similar in the front of the lens.
Some photographers used a plain filter with vaseline or even a piece of pantyhose.
Originally by user51772. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user51772
8y ago
0
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This look is usually a diffusion or bloom effect rather than a specific camera or film.
Common ways to create it:
- Put a translucent material in front of the lens, such as cellophane.
- Use a clear filter with a small amount of petroleum jelly on it.
- Stretch fine fabric like pantyhose over the lens or filter.
- Add it in post-processing with a bloom/glow effect and masks to control where the softness appears.
The key visual traits are lowered contrast, softened detail, and bright areas that spread slightly into surrounding tones. If you try an in-camera method, avoid putting anything directly on the lens itself—use a cheap protective or clear filter instead. Start subtly, because these effects can become overpowering very quickly.
For the most control, post-processing is the safest approach: apply bloom or glow selectively so highlights get the dreamy haze without making the whole image look muddy.
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