Softening Effect

In this very simple tutorial I’ll show you how to soften an image in GIMP. This effect is very similar to the effect you might achieve when using a Softening Filter.

Softening Effect - Rose

First of all choose a photograph with simplistic details, as a complicated image might not work well for the effect, and then, open your image in GIMP.

1. Duplicate that image:
   

   Duplicate

2. Now rename that new layer: Blurred
   

   Layer 'Blurred'

3. Select the layer Blurred, and go Filters –> Blur –> Gaussian Blur.
   

   Gaussian Blur

4. Adjust the slidersas shown below (may vary for some images):
   

   Adjust the sliders

5. Then move your Blurred Layer to the bottom:
   

   Blurred Layer to the bottom:

6. And adjust the Background Layer to 50% Opacity:
   

   Background Layer to 50% Opacity

7. And that’s it!

Softening Effect - Rose

Please comment below if you have any questions and I’ll answer them ASAP!

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Written by Mike

Michael Scott is the publisher and photographer behind Scott Photographics! He is very passionate about his photography and enjoys sharing the best of his experiences for others to enjoy too! Contact Mike via email!