Soft Focus

A technique that softens the whole image. A diffusion filter that spreads light is placed in front of the lens, or a lens that renders softly is used, so bright areas bleed into their surroundings and contrast drops. Unlike shallow depth of field, the image is in focus but its lines soften. Filters come in strengths like 1/8, 1/4 and 1/2.

Camera position seen at an angle from above. On a stage, the camera has moved in close enough to frame the bunny’s head and shoulders.

Camera view. The bunny’s head and shoulders show, and the bright white mask and suit glow softly into their surroundings. With low contrast, the whole frame looks milky and dreamlike.

How it feels

Dreamy
Romantic
Intimacy
Memory
Softness

When to use it

Love scenes or intimate moments
Flashbacks and dream scenes
Making skin look soft in portrait, beauty or fashion shoots
Taking the edge off digital sharpness for a film-like feel

In the movies

Casablanca (1942) · Source: Movieclips (YouTube) · Original video

Not to be confused with

Shallow Depth of Field: Shallow depth of field blurs only what is outside the focus. Soft focus makes even the in-focus area glow softly.
Lens Flare: A flare appears only when a strong light source shines straight into the lens. Diffusion works evenly on bright areas across the whole frame.
Soft Light: Soft light is lighting with soft shadow edges; soft focus softens the image itself with a lens or filter.

Prompt

Keyword

soft focus

Descriptive

Soft focus with a light diffusion filter, highlights gently glowing, lower contrast, dreamy and romantic mood.

Try these combinations

Close-up + soft focus: golden hour by the window
Close-up of a woman by a window, soft focus, Black Pro-Mist 1/4, subtle halation on highlights, warm golden hour light
Medium shot + diffusion: a dance in a memory
Medium shot of a couple dancing in an empty hall, soft focus, diffusion filter, low contrast, nostalgic dream sequence