Joe’s Diffuser can be used to simulate the look of video shot through a diffusion or Pro-Mist style filter. This effect is achieved by compositing a blurred copy of the original image back onto itself. The result is slightly reduced detail, softened contrast and subtle flaring of highlights. A complete set of compositing modes allows Joe’s Diffuser to create many other effects. Basic levels controls are included for tweaking the image to change the diffusion characteristics.

Another name for this sort of effect as coined by Trish Meyer is “Instant Sex”, though I have no idea what a tranparent blurry layer has to do with sex. But maybe that’s just me.

Example Images

Original Image

Tiffen Black Pro-Mist 1

Tiffen Black Diffusion FX 3

Joe’s Diffuser Blur: 10 Mode: Normal Opacity: 30 Input Black: 25 Input White: 200 Output Black: 30 Output White: 225

Joe’s Diffuser Blur: 10 Mode: Normal Opacity: 50 Input Black: 50 Input White: 255 Output Black: 35 Output White: 160

Joe’s Diffuser Blur: 10 Mode: Normal Opacity: 50 Input Black: 50 Input White: 255 Output Black: 35 Output White: 160 Same as previous with Joe’s Color Glow added to create a flare around the flame.

Joe’s Diffuser Blur: 50 Mode: Lighten Opacity: 50 Input Black: 50 Input White: 255 Output Black: 35 Output White: 160

The Joe’s Diffusion examples are brighter than the Tiffen filter examples because the camera’s iris was not adjusted to compensate for the darkening effect of the Pro-Mist and DiffusionFX filters.

Controls

Blur (0 - 50)

Sets the blur of the diffusion image.

Mode

Determines the compositing method for the blurred image.

Opacity (0 - 100)

Blending opacity for the blurred image.

Input Black, Input White, Output Black, Output White

Levels controls for manipulating the blurred image before compositing.