How to Photograph Through Translucent Material

Nylon over your lens will give you a soft focus.

Professional photographers use a range of photo filters, which achieve effects and capture scenes that otherwise are not possible. One such filter, known as soft focus, is used in portraits, fashion photography and glamor photography when the photographer wants to smooth skin, remove blemishes and provide an overall glow. In place of filters, a photographer can place a translucent material such as nylon over his lens.

Things You'll Need

• Pantyhose or other translucent material (frosted shower curtain, sheet, T-shirt)
• Scissors
• Heavy duty rubber band

Instructions

1. Cut your pantyhose or other translucent material so it is big enough to stretch over your lens.

2. Extend your lens if you are using a point-and-shoot camera.

3. Stretch the material over your lens and secure it in place with the rubber band. Stretching the material thin will produce a mild effect, while keeping it thick will produce a stronger effect.

4. Open the aperture to its widest setting. If you are using a point-and-shoot camera, use Portrait mode. If you are using a Single Lens Reflex camera, set your f/stop to f/2.8 or f/4.

5. Move your subject away from the background at least 10 feet. This will cause the background to blur and appear softer, helping to isolate your subject.

6. Attach a flash to your camera or shoot in a location with a lot of ambient light. The translucent material will block some of the light going into your camera, and the photograph may be too dark if you do not supply additional light.

Tips & Warnings

• Pantyhose can be preferable to a photo filter as it will store easily in your camera bag.

• Be wary of abrasive materials that may damage your lens.

References

• "Digital Photography Hacks"; Derrick Story; 2004
• Garry Black Photography: The Filters That I Own and Use
• Ganoksin: Taking Photos of Reflective Objects