Photography News

Tilt Shift Photography

May 30, 2012 by David Lye

Have you ever seen a photograph that looks like it’s of a miniature scene, with tiny buildings and figurines, but later found out that it was actually a picture of a real scene? If so, then you’ve seen tilt shift photography. Tilt shift photography is one of the fastest growing photography trends, and is becoming more accessible to photographers of all skill levels. Tilt shift photography has been featured in such high profile films as The Social Network, and apps such as Instagram have brought it to the forefront of the photography scene. Previously utilized almost solely by professionals with access to specialized lenses and equipment, tilt shift effects can now be used by just about anyone.

In most basic terms, tilt shift photography is taking a real scene and making it appear miniature. An example would be photographing a real railroad and having the finished image appear as if it is of a highly detailed model railroad. The effect adds a touch of whimsy and draws the viewer in as he or she tries to determine if what they see is real. The edges of the image are blurred and the subject is brought into hyper focus to bring out the details. Contrast and saturation are also typically increased, and the end result is a scene that looks like a scale model but is actually real.

Professional photographers can capture tilt shift images with a special tilt shift lens, but for the everyman, there are many tools available to give photos the tilt shift effect. Photoshop is a popular option – there are a number of methods, but the simplest takes just a few minutes and involves adding a gradient blur and upping the contrast and saturation. For those looking for a simpler approach, however, numerous websites have popped up recently that allow you to upload your photo and add the effect automatically. And phone photographers can use a number of different apps for both iPhone and Android to give their shots the tilt shift treatment.

Not every image is suitable for the tilt shift effect, however. Because it makes the subject look like a miniature model, tilt shift works best when the subject is something that you would typically see as a miniature. Aerial shots taken from an angle rather than straight-down are best, as they give you the most ideal depth of field. The image must also be sharp, as the blurring is added after the fact and the subject needs to be in focus. And as always, the photo should be of an interesting scene. Tilt shift brings out a lot of detail, so make sure there is actually detail to be brought out by the effect.

Once you’ve experimented with tilt shift photography, you can also try tilt shift videos, which are mesmerising and unique. You can also try mixing tilt shift with other effects for more experimental photos.

David Lye is co-founder of Photographers.com.au, keen amateur photographer, and avid blogger.

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