With traditional photography and photo processing the idea of customizing your pictures after taking them seemed really far-fetched. You were basically stuck with the photo you took with your camera and there was almost nothing to do to change it. Even professional photographers often takes faulty pictures. For us amateurs, especially if we don't have ultra-performant camera, most pictures are far from perfect. Fortunately, digital photography and photo storage available online for free come in handy as they allow you to change a photo as much as you want, even until it has nothing to do with the original. If you would like to get more out of your photos, this article can help you do that. However, in order to follow this technique, you need to have a photo editing application installed on your computer. There are many free applications you can download online or you can purchase a higher-end one.
1. Basic editing
If you don't want anything sophisticated, you can easily learn to use some basic functions of your photo editing application to make some small changes to your photos. These include cropping, resizing or rotating the picture until you get what you want. They can be done in a few minutes and can help you be more satisfied with the image.
2. Add some special effects
If you want to go a little further, your photo editor has a lot of functions that add special effects to your photo, such as a windy background and a bunch of other interesting stuff. Each application has a different way of doing this so there are no standard steps to follow, but you can find many tutorials online for any particular software. It only takes a few minutes and can help you change the original image at a great extent.
3. Apply filters
Your image may look more interesting after applying a filter. Filters are generally add-ons that can be downloaded for free for any photo editing software. Just to give you an idea, you can use a certain filter to make your photo look like it's been oil painted. Again, each application has its own filters, but you can find step-by-step tutorials for any of them. This also takes no more than a few minutes if you have the right tools.
4. Play with colors
Some tools allow you to change the color of your photo. You can make it lighter or darker or even change a certain part of it to a different color. For example, you can customize a portrait to make the eyes of the person green. Playing with colors can help you express more with a common picture and even make some changes to improve an original that is really bad.
5. Put borders and clip-arts
If you want to make your picture more interesting or funnier you can add some fun clip-arts or borders. There tons of such elements available online. Make some experiments on an image to see what it looks like.
Mr. Alex Don has been writing in the field of photo resizing at Reshade. Reshade is specialized in photo applications and offers an online image resizer software
As a plus it makes available a image resizer program.
Where is the button Filter on Paint ?
I'm trying to make something on Paint on my computer. But i wanna add some special effects on it, but i cant find the button filter. Does anyone knows where is it located ? Thank You.
oh . since paint doesnt have filter.
Light rays which are reflected by any surface become polarised and polarising filters are used to select which light rays enter your camara lens. They allow you to remove unwanted reflections from non-metallic surfaces such as water, glass etc. They also saturate colors and increase contrast....
Only Book/disk package devoted to using third-party special effects and production filters. Explains how to get outstanding effect from filters. Hundreds of tips and techniques for creating effects....
Fujifilm Finepix S3100 is a 4-megapixel SLR camera with up to six times optical zoom. Many user reviews say that the FinePix S3100 produces quality photos which look great even when enlarged to 8x10 dimensions, granted that you operate the camera correctly. Many users also point out that the camera needs around three seconds of "machine warmup" before your subject appears in the viewfinder or LCD screen. This 3-second delay holds true for 16mb memory cards, but users say that the delay increases with larger memory cards. This delay may not be a big deal to most users, but it can prevent you from taking spontaneous shots.
The FinePix S3100 has a viewfinder that is pretty accurate, but you may also toggle the image to the 1.5-inch LCD screen with just a push of a dedicated button at the back of the camera. The S3100 also has auto-focus and auto-exposure, which you can access and turn on by pushing the shutter button halfway for a couple of seconds until a confirmation on the adjustments appears. Then you can push the button all the way down and take a picture. It's recommended to use the automatic adjustments because sometimes failing to do so results in not-so-great-looking pictures.
The downside to using the auto-adjustments feature is that the image in the LCD or viewfinder freezes for a second or two, so it's an ineffective way of taking action shots or photos of moving subjects. This is why the S3100 itself is not recommended for those who intend to use their camera mostly for action or spontaneous photography. The camera has five picture size or quality settings and three sharpness settings or levels to choose from. There are also four scene modes: night, portrait, red-eye reduction, and synchro flash modes which includes suppressed or forced flash modes.
The S3100 also allows you to take short video clips but without sound. The camera comes with a 16mb memory card which will allow you to save eight high-quality pictures or 16 medium-quality ones. If you're a beginner and you're decided on getting the Fujifilm FinePix S3100, you need not worry about knowing how it works because the 100-page manual discusses in detail how you can perform different operations.
Finepix S3100 is dubbed by many as the ideal Fuji SLR camera for the in-between types of photographers. By in-between we mean those who are neither beginners nor professional photographers. Professional photographers may not like the S3100 because manual adjustment of settings is limited, and some first-time SLR camera users may find the S3100 a bit complicated. People who prefer point-and-shoot type cameras might find the S3100 to be a bit troublesome.
Getting the perfect camera, is never an easy thing, especially with the way digital technology is constantly changing. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful websites online, that can narrow down your search and help you find the camera with all the features important to you.
Cheapest alternative to a high-end DSLR is a film SLR?
I've got a good point & shoot Digital camera and looking into a DSLR. I was checking out various boards for recommendations on getting a good deal on a DSLR. One photographer was thinking beyond the box so to speak, and said the best way to save money on a DSLR is to use a film SLR. Since I already have a Canon SLR with an excellent lens set, I'm thinking that using both cameras I already own (digital point & shoot and my Canon film SLR) can sure save me a lot of money. If I'm not going to go for a really high end DSLR (over $1,000 say), am I going to lose any quality with what the cameras I already own?
What I meant about investing in a $1,000 DSLR is that I'd rather not have to if it won't make all that much difference based on the two cameras I have now. My point & shoot digital works great for most situations and I can use my film SLR features for a lot of the features people buy the dslr's for.
Remember where the costs lie with film and digital. If you currently have a film SLR, you won't have any additional up front costs, but you will have ongoing costs of film, developing and printing. I live in Australia, and this works out to be about $15 per 24 exposure roll. You can only take about 65 rolls before you will have spent the same money as you might have for a good DSLR. Only you will know how long that will take.
In contrast, once you have purchased the DSLR, ongoing costs are minimal. There will be some printing costs, but you can be more selective about what you print. You can take almost unlimited shots and work out what to keep later.
As a comparison, I recently took a film SLR with me on holiday together with a point and shoot digital. I took about 17 rolls of film over six weeks, and about 500 digital images. In a similar period two years before I only took the point and shoot, and took over 1800 images. My good image ratio for film is about double that for digital, because I take more care with film to get everything right. With a digital, I will take brackets of five, rather than three, and take a series of shots when I am on a bus to get a single good shot. Leave aside the fact that there was almost no cost, compared to about $200 for developing and printing for film just for this trip.
I like the combination, but I'm not so sure that it is good economics.
UC Berkeley E128 Final Project - Canon 10D DSLR v2
It's obvious that the cleaner the lens, the sharper your pictures will be. Dirt, dust, and fingerprints will degrade the image quality of even the finest optics. However, it's important to avoid using incorrect cleaning materials which can permanently damage your photo equipment. Used properly, the cleaning supplies in this kit are certified safe for use on your valuable digital and film photo-equ...
It's obvious that the cleaner the lens, the sharper your pictures will be. Dirt, dust, and fingerprints will degrade the image quality of even the finest optics. However, it's important to avoid using incorrect cleaning materials which can permanently damage your photo equipment. Used properly, the cleaning supplies in this kit are certified safe for use on your valuable digital and film photo-equ...
You have always been dreaming about possessing a genuine hand-painted oil painting of your greatest idol Britney Spears but you are not sure whether you can buy one because genuine hand-painted oil paintings are often very expensive?We can help you: Just specify all your needs regardingwhat to paintfavorite backgrounds of your choice (e.g. coloringsweather conditions on the paintingpainting style ...
The K-x camera design is a compact, lightweight body and simple, user-friendly operations. With the addition of a newly designed CMOS image sensor and an upgraded high-performance imaging engine, the K-x offers outstanding photographic performance at nearly the same level as upper-class models. This includes high-resolution, fine-detailed images delivered by approximately 12.4 effective megapixels...
It's obvious that the cleaner the lens, the sharper your pictures will be. Dirt, dust, and fingerprints will degrade the image quality of even the finest optics. However, it's important to avoid using incorrect cleaning materials which can permanently damage your photo equipment. Used properly, the cleaning supplies in this kit are certified safe for use on your valuable digital and film photo-equ...
It's obvious that the cleaner the lens, the sharper your pictures will be. Dirt, dust, and fingerprints will degrade the image quality of even the finest optics. However, it's important to avoid using incorrect cleaning materials which can permanently damage your photo equipment. Used properly, the cleaning supplies in this kit are certified safe for use on your valuable digital and film photo-equ...
It's obvious that the cleaner the lens, the sharper your pictures will be. Dirt, dust, and fingerprints will degrade the image quality of even the finest optics. However, it's important to avoid using incorrect cleaning materials which can permanently damage your photo equipment. Used properly, the cleaning supplies in this kit are certified safe for use on your valuable digital and film photo-equ...
Ideal for portable use on the road or at home with a desktop or laptop. Your data and pictures can be instantly transferred to your PC/Notebook. AC power adapter not required. Power can be drawn from the USB port....
Crystal Clear Glass Cabinet Knobs – A Great New Way to Decorate
Crystal clear glass cabinet knobs are a wonderful way to add the beauty of glass to your kitchen, bathroom or bedroom without needing to introduce new colors or try to match the existing color schemes in the room. Glass cabinet and drawer hardware is a simple way to update the look of your cabinets or drawers without needing to refinish or repaint if the surfaces are still in good condition. Unlike metal hardware that can become dented or scratched over time, glass offers a timeless beauty that will be a subtle but elegant addition to your home.
Glass cabinet hardware is available in a variety of shapes and designs which can range from simple hexagonal designs to wonderful swirl patterns. Since knob construction can vary some types may offer a base in a variety of different finishes that can be coordinated to doorknob sets, faucets, hinges, etc. that are not being replaced. Popular finishes include Polished Brass, Antique Brass, Polished Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Oil Rubbed Bronze.
Installing new knobs on your cabinets and drawers is a simple process that typically takes only a few minutes. Knobs can either be designed with the bolt going through the knob from the front and attaching with a nut on the interior of the cabinet or they can be a rear mounting system where a bolt is screwed into the base of the knob from the inside of the cabinet or drawer. If bolts are too long or short they can be cut to size or easily replaced at a local hardware store.
Coordinate your home further and create a new theme with glass by installing glass doorknob sets and window tie backs as well. A simple way to updating the look of any room is replacing older and worn hardware and giving new life to the older furniture and doors in your home. Glass cabinet and drawer hardware is also available in a variety of colors if you want to add a touch of color as well.
LookInTheAttic & Company offers a wide selection of beautiful glass cabinet hardware. They also offer a great selection of doorknobs and window hardware to complete the theme. Be sure to ask questions if you are unsure about size or installation instructions. Glass hardware is a unique and beautiful addition to any home and a great way to redecorate without spending a lot of time and money in the process.
About the Author
Kohn Coleman born in Michigan - received his Ph.D. from Iowa State University in 2000 - currently leads several online companies and ventures.
A door that has clear glass but when you lock it the glass becomes opaque. Where can I buy one?
I saw these on a CSI show a while back where the stall door in the bathroom was clear glass but when it was locked the glass would become opaque so that you could not see through it. I think these doors would be awesome in a house. Does anyone know where to find these or who makes them?
wow... i would love some doors like that! i'm about to do a search & i'll check back to see if anyone has answered your question...
so far i've seen pictures, but i can't find where to purchase them
http://www.smarthome.com has some unique things.. i looked, but could'nt find it. but it may be on there. so you can try looking as well.
There are several reasons to choose glass storage containers: Pyrex glass doesn't warp, stain, absorb odors or interact with food, it is safe for microwave and oven use, it's attractive enough to bring to the table for casual meals. Last but not least you can see the leftovers without opening the lid, which means you won't accidentally grab a dish of corn niblets for lunch when you really wanted t...
? 2-cup Measuring Cup with Red Graphics,? Can go directly from refrigerator or freezer to a microwave, convection, or preheated conventional oven. Non-porous glass, so it won t absorb food odors, food flavors or food stains. Non-reactive, so acid-based recipes, including tomato-based sauces, lemon-infused dishes and vinegar-based poultry sauces can be prepped and baked without affecting the result...
Appealing in their simplicity and symmetry, this set of 16 glasses contributes both practicality and style to any drinkware collection. The glasses feature heavy, 1-inch-thick bases that impart substance and stability for durable use from one meal or occasion to the next, while their unique, rounded shape creates a clean and contemporary appearance. Distinguished by a crystal-clear finish that bea...
Clear vinyl long play record with lyric booklet and and special 3-D glasses issued to view the 3-D dimensional album art. Tracks recorded live in 1997 along with studio material from 1999. Album features a cover version of "Come Together", originally done by the MC5....
DEWALT BRANDED GOGGLES - Built-in ventilation channel ~ Provides extra fog control and ventilation ~ Dual injected rubber for soft comfortable seal ~ Clip attachment for easy lens replacement ~ Cloth head strap ~ Provides a comfortable adjustable fit ~ Polycarbonate lens for impact resistance...
The DEWALT Contractor Pro is high performance eyewear in a lightweight design with a tough, distortion-free polycarbonate lens that provides impact resistance....
Canon Xsi Rebel - Should You Trade In For The T1I?
I've been using the Canon XSi Rebel Rebel for about half a year. Question to all Canon XSi Rebel and XS users, "Should I trade-in my XSi Rebel /XS for an T1i?" Answers all vary and depends what you need.
1. Overall I think the Canon XSi Rebel is a very very good camera. It has more than enough megapixel as a regular digital camera. It is also very affordable and comes with its own lens.
2. The screen is pretty amazing but not as clear as the T1i which has 920,000 pixel on it. But, that doesn't really matter.
3. Picture taking, I think that the Canon XSi Rebel actually take sharper and clearer images than the T1i. Probably because the T1i has more megapixel and if you use 18-55mm lens, it will actually show that the 18-55mm lens is pretty cheap when taking pictures. I also tried on the 50mm on both camera, pretty good result but Canon XSi Rebel just a tiny little bit sharper. And when you reach ISO 1600 on the T1i, it get pretty noisy. T1i just a bit noisy than the Canon XSi Rebel. When you reach ISO 3200, things get pretty loud and you would like one of those expensive lens that take silent pictures. Overall the T1i and Canon XSi Rebel picture taking is almost the same. Canon XSi Rebel if you want silent pictures and T1i if you want ISO 3200 or more.
4. Liveview, I see no difference and both look the same and take the same picture quality. So no problem there.
5. Digic Processor, the T1i has an upgraded processor, probably because 15 megapixel is a lot and takes time to save it into the memory card. But, the Canon XSi Rebel may have a downgraded processor but it still save the picture at the same time as T1i. So there also no problem there.
6. HD record on the T1i is pretty amazing when is on 720p. But if you 1080p I recommend getting a video recorder. dSLR aren't really meant for taking HD record and I would highly recommend that if you need to record video, I would go for a video recorder that can take true HD. Also, worst part about the HD record, the sound is pretty lousy. There is NO PLUGIN for a mic for the T1i. So not recommend if your using the HD record taking a speech.
Overall I think the T1i is a pretty good camera. But there's no reason to trade in your XSi Rebel/XS for a T1i unless you really need that ISO or the HD recorder. I think the T1i should be $50 cheaper because the only thing I see in the T1i compare to the XSi Rebel/XS is the megapixel and the HD recorder. I would recommend getting the D90 if you have a bit more money to record HD. D90 not only record HD but it take pretty good pictures compare to T1i.
i need a new camera and i dont know which one to get
i know i deffinitley want a canon only digital
so i came across the rebel xti
is it a good camera ?
is it easy to work with ?
how are the features?
im open to any other canon cameras.
It's a great camera. This is one of my stock answers and it favors the Nikon, but you can read the article and see all of the good points about the Rebel XTi just the same.
The XTi has consistently been THE top selling digital SLR almost since it was introduced.
http://www.popphoto.com/cameras/4584/top-selling-digital-slrs-for-july.html (July is the most recent list compiled.)
~~~~~~
The February 2007 issue of Popular Photography has an article where they compared the top 10 MP DSLR's. I took the scores and ranked the cameras similar to the way Formula 1 gives championship points. I just gave 5 for 1st place down to 1 for last place, splitting the difference when cameras tied in their catagories.
They evaluated Image Quality (giving this twice as much weight as anything else), Ease of Use, Control, and System Flexibility.
The final order and my scores are:
Nikon D80 - 17.5 points
- BEST in Image Quality, Control and System Flexibility
Canon Rebel XTi (400D) - 13.5 points
- Tied for best in System Flexibility
Pentax K10D - 11 points
- Tied for best in Ease of Use
Samsung GX10 - 11 points
- Tied for best in Ease of Use
Sony Alpha 100 - 7 points
- LAST in Image Quality, Ease of Use and System Flexibility."
Then again, this is the same magazine that put the Sony Alpha 100 dead last in this comparison named it the camera of the year in the previous issue! (In a follow-up to this seeming error, Pop Photo published the explanation that only the D80 and the Sony had been tested by the end-of-year deadline for choosing the Camera of the Year. Sony won on the strength of low price and built-in image stabilization. The other 3 that beat Sony in shoot-out were not tested until after the Camera of the Year was selected, because they were not yet available.)
Go to the original question and read the responses for more opinions.
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AiG00eHyd0oq5b.X7J.jiULzy6IX?qid=20070113133139AAHWJY0
If you want to get the "best" for the real world, consider the Nikon D200 or Canon 30D if you can afford it. For about $300-500 less, look at the results of the recent PopPhoto test and choose from that list according to your taste.
Personally, I use a Nikon D200 and would recommend it without hesitation to someone who has some knowledge of photography. For someone who wants the "best," but is starting with somewhat of an "entry level" knowledge base, I'd suggest the Nikon D80.
There are people out there who will state their preference for the Canon cameras and I will not argue with them. The Canon 30D and 400D are excellent cameras as well. You would have to visit a camera store or camera department and pick them up and see what you think.
Here's another reference from outside the photographic press. Consumer reports compared the Nikon D80, Canon Rebel XTi and Sony Alpha. Personally, I'd say that the Nikon came out on top here, also. It beats the Sony in "noise-free ISO" with an acceptable rating at ISO 1600 (kind of optimistic, I think...) compared to the Sony's ISO 400. It beats the Canon (in my opinion) by having a spot meter that the Canon does not offer.
http://www.digitalcamerainfo.com/content/Canon-Rebel-XTi-vs-Nikon-D80-vs-Sony-Alpha-A100-Head-to-Head-to-Head-Digital-Camera-Review-.htm
[Note the navigation menu near the top of the review]
The next thing to consider is what lens to start with and where you go from there. If you are new to this, I'd say to just get the "kit" lens, which seems to be the 18-135 lens for the D80, and get started. Once you know where you really want to go with your photography, Nikon has an almost unlimited family of lenses to choose from.
~~~
Two of the best selling conversion lenses, offered in a combined value kit, will help you capture creative and stunning images. Included in the kit: 2x Telephoto - Capture better images of far-off subjects with the Digital Optics Telephoto lens for digital cameras and camcorders. The 2x magnification allows you to bring your subject closer while you stay where you are. The 2x Tele-C...
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Lens:
Designed with Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer technology while retaining compactness and lightness. This high zoom ratio lens is equivalent to a focal length of 88-400mm in the 35mm format (when used on Canon EOS cameras compatible with EF-S lenses), and the image stabilizer effect equivalent...
The Vivitar Power Grip holds 2 LP-E5 batteries, providing twice the power. It also includes an adapter that allows you to place 6 AA batteries for extended shooting time....
Find out how to use every amazing feature of the EOS Digital Rebel XTi / 400D with the help of a superbly filmed DVD. It shows the actual camera in action, and thoroughly discusses everything from image quality and formats to shooting with flash and editing the photos. It's information-packed, and easy to learn from....
Take great pictures with your Canon T1i / 500D!
All you need is this training DVD and about ninety minutes, and you will have the knowledge and the confidence to create the images you want. The topics are arranged in chapters, so you can move at your own pace, and return later to individual subjects.
And much more!
The Canon T1i / 500D is a powerful camera. A solid understanding of its feature...
This instructional DVD will help you get the most out of your digital camera from setup and maintenance to an in-depth understanding of the numerous features and options that usually get overlooked. This DVD, hosted by Emmy Award winning Todd Hansen, will prepare you to take pictures like a pro. Approx. runtime: 1 hour...
The Canon Selphy Photo Printer is a great way to print your digital images on-the-go. Protect your great compact printer with this Protective Carrying Case. Perfect for storage or transportation, the Carrying Case has enough room for your digital camera, printer and accessories. There is a front zippered pocket for extra storage and an included shoulder strap and handle for easy transportation. Th...
Store 8GB in a card the size of a postage stamp!The Secure Digital High Capacity 8GB memory card offers incredible storage power in the smallest of packages.Compatible with Canon: EOS-1D Mark III EOS-1D Mark II EOS-1D Mark II N EOS-1Ds PowerShot A1000 IS PowerShot A1100 IS PowerShot A2000 IS PowerShot A2100 IS PowerShot A460 PowerShot A470 PowerShot A480 PowerShot A550 PowerShot A560 PowerShot A57...
When you want a memory card you can count on, every day, choose this for Canon Digital Camera's designed SD memory. They are fast, built to last, and ready when you are. Store high quality photos, videos, music and more with this high storage capacity (8 GB) and super speed performance. Important: this item is confirmed compatible only with the device models listed in the title. Although this memo...
Gaming and Graphic Design Computer Monitor Solutions
CRT screens are fast moving towards obsolescence and are now almost the preserve of Graphic designers, gamers and photographic professionals. In effect their large, bulky size has resulted in them being consigned forever to the recycling bin. Even so, their abilities far outstrip even the most modestly priced LCD or flat panel display. Why? Well, the refresh rate, color saturation, even-ness of brightness and ability to multi-sync (have more than one native resolution) means that they can still meet the requirements of high end digital users. Only a LCD displays offer true multisync and these are significantly more expensive than any CRT screen, either new or refurbished. So where do LCD displays beat the traditional CRT? I've already noted than they take up less desk space, but they don't flicker either and the glare is much less. As a result of this, eye strain is reduced significantly.
Liquid crystals were discovered in 1971 and comprise a liquid chemical compound that can be aligned precisely when subjected to an electric field. By placing rows of liquid crystals in between 2 polarizing filters (the same filters used in sun glasses) no light can pass through. Upon applying a charge to the liquid crystals, they are excited which causes them to align with the polarizing filter. If a light is shone through the layers, only those crystals that have been excited will allow the photons to pass through and align then up with the second filter. This is in effect how a monochrome screen was produced (basically black and white or on and off). Backlights, that produce the light source are cold sodium cathode tubes similar to ceiling strip lights.
In a color LCD screen, three liquid crystal cells make up each pixel. Each of those three cells has in front of it either a red, green, or blue filter. Light passing through the filtered cells creates the colors you see on the LCD. Nearly all modern color LCDs use a thin-film transistor (TFT), also known as an active matrix, to activate each cell. The process of manufacturing a TFT is similar to the process used to manufacture a silicon integrated circuit or silicon chip. Extremely thin insulators, conductors and transistors must be laid into a glass substrate, which becomes the lower glass of the LCD. TFT LCDs create sharp, bright images. Previous LCD technologies were slower, less efficient, and provided lower contrast. The oldest of the matrix technologies, passive-matrix, offers sharp text but leaves ghost images on the screen. This is because the electric field was not delivered directly to the liquid crystal because the TFT layer was not present.
Because LCDs address each pixel individually, they can create sharper text than CRTs, which, when badly focused, blur the distinct pixels that make up the screen image. But the high contrast of LCDs can cause problems when you want to display graphics. CRTs soften the edges of graphics as well as text, and while this can make it hard to read text at very small resolutions, it also means CRTs can blend and convey subtleties in photographs better than LCDs. Also, LCDs have only one "native" resolution, limited by the number of pixels physically built into the display. If you buy a modern 15 inch TFT, it's native resolution will be 1024x768. Emulating 800 x 600 on this screen will cause it to produce a picture where everything displayed looks to have fuzzy edges. A further note is that Many people claim that TFTs are crisper, but at close working distances the pixel structure is visible on a TFT. This is not the case on modern CRT screens, where the dot pitch is at or below 0.25mm.
About the Author
Is it worth buying a soft focus filter for portrait photography?
Does a soft focus filter really work where it softens the over all pictures? or is it just as good using photoshop ? If the filter is worth while having. I would like to use that instead so it would cut down my time using photoshop
Not really ...
While there are times when a "misty" look is wanted, most of the time, something in the image frame has to be sharp or the whole image looks soft.
Kodak publishes a product called "GEM airbrush" which is a plug-in for Photoshop CS. It works very well and you can fine tune it as necessary.
US $4.99
