Definition & Meaning of "soft focus"

What is "soft focus"?

Soft focus is a photographic and cinematographic technique where the camera deliberately blurs parts of the image to create a dreamy or gentle effect. This is achieved by using a special lens or filter that reduces the sharpness of the focus, softening the details while maintaining some clarity in certain areas. Soft focus is often used to create a romantic or nostalgic atmosphere, emphasize mood, or highlight a subject by making the background less distinct. It can also help to smooth out imperfections in the image and create a more flattering appearance for subjects.