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The Best Way to Create Cinematic Glow Effect (Photos & Videos)

Education

Introduction

Creating captivating and dreamy effects in photography and videography can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your content. One popular method is utilizing a black diffusion mist filter that softens highlights and introduces a warm glow. If you don't have access to this filter, don’t worry! You can create a similar effect using Adobe Photoshop and DaVinci Resolve. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to achieve a stunning glow effect in both photos and videos.

Creating the Effect in Photoshop

To illustrate the process, let's take an example image of a Porsche. Here’s how to replicate the cinematic glow effect:

  1. Duplicate the Layer: Start by duplicating your image layer in Photoshop. Press Ctrl + J (Windows) or Cmd + J (Mac).

  2. Convert to Smart Object: Right-click on the duplicated layer and select "Convert to Smart Object." This allows you to edit your adjustments easily.

  3. Threshold Adjustment: Navigate to Image > Adjustments > Threshold. Adjust the slider slightly to the right; this will help you define the highlights in your photo. Once satisfied, press OK.

  4. Apply Gaussian Blur: Next, go to Filter > Blur > Gaussian Blur. Here, you need to find a balance where you have a nice amount of blur without losing too much detail. Adjust the radius until it looks appealing and then press OK.

  5. Change Blend Mode: Change the layer’s blend mode from Normal to Screen. You should now see a luminescent effect around the highlights.

  6. Add a Color Cast: To add a warm, reddish tint typically seen in diffusion effects, go to the bottom layer controls and apply a solid color adjustment layer. Select a hue in the red range, click OK, right-click to create a clipping mask, and then set the blend mode to Overlay.

And just like that, you have created a beautiful, dreamy glow effect on your photo!

Creating the Effect in DaVinci Resolve

Now let's move to video editing using DaVinci Resolve to add a similar mystical glow. Follow these steps:

  1. Import Your Video: Open DaVinci Resolve and import your desired video, for instance, a beautiful sunset clip.

  2. Go to the Color Page: Navigate to the color grading page in DaVinci Resolve.

  3. Apply Halation Effect: In the effects panel, search for the "Halation" effect and drag it onto your node.

  4. Adjust Settings: Within the Halation settings, increase the Strength to around 250, and adjust the Spread to your liking.

  5. Before and After: Take a moment to review your changes by toggling before and after. You should see a stunning glow surrounding the highlights of your sunset clip.

By following these steps, you can achieve a cinematic glow effect that adds depth and beauty to both your photos and videos.

Keyword

Cinematic Glow, Black Diffusion Mist Filter, Photoshop, Gaussian Blur, Threshold Adjustment, Halation Effect, Dreamy Effect, Photo Editing, Video Editing

FAQ

1. What is a black diffusion mist filter?
A black diffusion mist filter softens the highlights in photography, creating a dreamy, ethereal effect by surrounding light sources with a gentle glow.

2. Can I achieve this effect without a physical filter?
Yes, you can replicate a similar effect using software like Photoshop and DaVinci Resolve through various techniques, such as adjustment layers and filters.

3. How do I use a threshold adjustment in Photoshop?
The threshold adjustment allows you to define highlights in an image. By moving the slider to the right, you can isolate lighter areas for effects.

4. What software is recommended for video editing effects?
DaVinci Resolve is highly recommended for video editing, especially for color grading and applying effects like halation.

5. How does the blend mode affect my image?
Changing the blend mode to ‘Screen’ in Photoshop can create a glow effect by brightening the areas that are already light, allowing for a more luminous appearance in highlights.