Whether you call them photos effects or filters (spoiler alert: they’re not the same), these tools can be incredibly powerful—when used correctly!
It’s no secret that visuals are a powerful tool. This is true both in our personal and professional life. One study shows that 49% of marketers rate visual marketing as very important to their marketing strategy, and 19% say that their strategy is nothing without visual content.
So, how do you make the most of the photos you have?
In this post, you’ll learn about the value of photo filters and how you can use photo effects in Shutterstock Create.
Why Would You Use a Photo Effect?
You may have an amazing photo, but is it communicating exactly what you want it to? This is where photo effects and filters for pictures can help.
Give it a more artistic feel, direct focus to the right place, or add more visual interest. When you use photo effects, you gain more control over how people see your image.
Are Photo Effects Different from Photo Filters?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but there’s a distinction between the two. When we’re talking about these in a photo filter app, filters are typically applied over the existing photo to change elements like coloring or brightness.
While effects may have an impact on some of the same elements, they tend to create more transformative change in a photo. They may change the photo structurally in some way or add different types of graphic elements.
11 Photo Effect Types (and When to Use Them)
Want to jump into the world of photo effects and see how they can transform your assets? Check out these effects and learn when to use them.
1. Glitch
Give your photo a futuristic touch with the Glitch effect. This option adds a modern look to the image without making it look unrecognizable.
2. Glitter Shadow
Let’s face it. Glitter is fun! Leave a lasting impression with a glitter shadow.
3. Polaroid Frame
Turn your digital photos into something that creates nostalgia. This effect adds a simple white frame around your image.
4. Outline
Let your audience read between the lines with this outline effect. Add an outline to the focal point of the image or remove that completely and allow just the outline to remain.
5. Film Frame
Is your photo a still of a larger story? This effect will make your photo look like a film strip to highlight one important moment.
6. Gradient Shadow
Looking for a way to include more color without overwhelming? Try this gradient shadow pro effect on your photo.
7. Scrapbook
You don’t have to print out your photos to give them a weathered look. This scrapbook effect adds a filter that makes photos appear a bit more aged.
8. Neon Scribble
Scribbles don’t need to give a child-like appeal to images. Try out different scribble effects to add a creative touch.
9. Multi-Exposure
Want to give your photo a sense of deeper meaning? Try adding layers with the multi-exposure effect.
10. Offset Silhouette
It’s not always easy to keep things simple while still creating some visual interest. Try this offset silhouette to add dimension to your photo.
11. Digital Pixel
How will your photo translate into the digital world? Pixelate your existing photo in one click with this effect.
How to Use Photo Effects in Shutterstock Create
Not sure how to make your photos look incredible? We’ve got you covered. You can use online design tools to find a filter for photos and take your images to the next level.
Here’s how it works in Shutterstock Create.
Prepare Your Canvas
In Create, select Custom Size and enter the dimensions for your design.
Find a Starting Point
From here, search templates or continue on with a blank canvas. You’ll have access to thousands of fonts, graphics, textures, effects, and color combinations to pick from. In the images tab, you’ll also find stock images.
If you want to start with your own photo instead, simply click upload and select an image from your system. No matter what you choose, you’ll have access to the same customization options.
Select Your Pro Effect
Once your photo is on the canvas, you’ll find the Pro effects in the top toolbar. Once you click it, you’ll find all the pro effects available to you on the left side of the screen.
You can select the different options to see how they impact your photo before applying. Be sure to click apply to save your choice.
Complete Your Design
Make any other changes you may need to your design and put on the finishing touches before you finalize.
Download Your Design
When you’re ready to download, click the Download button in the top-right corner and select your preferred format. If you have a Shutterstock Create account, you can also go back and make changes to your design at any time. This makes it easy to try different photo effects.
Want to learn even more about photo filters? Make How to Add Dreamy Blur and Bokeh Effects to Your Photos your next read.
License this cover image via Look Studio.
