Soft Focus (Glamourizing shots) - DPChallenge Forums

Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS

07/13/2006 10:13:51 PM · #1

Alright, so I have no idea how to do this, and was hoping to learn something from one of the bright minds abroad.

Actually I was hoping a couple of us might like to chime in, and learn as well.

I have been...up till now been

Duplicating Layer
Gaussian Blur
Eraser
Opacity

But I'm not liking the results, and was wondering how they do those glamour shots in portraiture, where the focus becomes soft and almost glowing? Also is there something within the camera that may help achieve this goal.

Canon EOS-60D

07/13/2006 10:16:40 PM · #2

Try Filter>>Distort>>Diffuse Glow in photoshop, or try the free downloadable Gothic Glow action, or try a soft-focus filter plugin. I use the one from Power Retouche with awesome results.

wavelength

Nikon D300

Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D

07/13/2006 10:16:47 PM · #3

Try changing the blending mode to hard light, soft light, or screen on one of those for the GB layer.

fotomann_forever

07/13/2006 10:18:23 PM · #4

Originally posted by sacredspirit:

Also is there something within the camera that may help achieve this goal.

A diffusion or soft-focus filter is the traditional approach. Screw it on and wala a nice looking portrait. Alternatively you can use panty hose as a cheap alternative. Use a nude color and the finest mesh you can get.

As far as software, I use Alien Skin Exposure for the effect. There are a few "glamour and diffusion actions here: //www.atncentral.com/download.htm

wavelength

Nikon D300

Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D

07/13/2006 10:22:40 PM · #5

Originally posted by fotomann_forever:

As far as software, I use Alien Skin Exposure for the effect.

Do you like that one? I've looked at it a few times and really considered putting it on the list.

Message edited by author 2006-07-13 22:22:53.

07/13/2006 10:25:06 PM · #6

Really...I had no idea that you could download such a thing. Any drawbacks from using something like that here in the Club.

fotomann_forever

07/13/2006 10:31:11 PM · #7

Originally posted by wavelength:

Originally posted by fotomann_forever:

As far as software, I use Alien Skin Exposure for the effect.

Do you like that one? I've looked at it a few times and really considered putting it on the list.

Love it. I'm in love with the various types of film you can mimmick with it. For instance I'm applying a Fuji Astia effect to about 200 photos I shot yesterday - Astia has long been known as a portrait film. I can get a good film look, including sharpening in one pass.

Canon 12x IS USM (S3 IS built-in Lens) -- 36-432mm (35mm EQ)

07/13/2006 10:34:06 PM · #8

So fotomann whereabouts would I find something like that? Is that a downloadable deal too?

Message edited by author 2006-07-13 22:34:19.

GeneralE

Canon PowerShot S3 IS

07/13/2006 10:37:14 PM · #9

Try this DPC Tutorial too.

fotomann_forever

07/13/2006 10:42:08 PM · #10

Originally posted by sacredspirit:

So fotomann whereabouts would I find something like that? Is that a downloadable deal too?

//www.alienskin.com/exposure/index.html

Here. The filter is $199. Yes, expensive, but really good. There is a full-function demo available for 30 days.