A vignette is a darkening of the image edges that draws the viewer's eye naturally toward the centre of the frame. It is one of the most classic and widely used photo finishing techniques — subtle vignettes appear in professional photography from portraits to landscapes.
What Is a Photo Vignette?
Vignetting was originally an optical flaw — early camera lenses allowed less light to reach the corners of the film than the centre, creating natural darkened edges. Modern photographers apply vignettes intentionally because they guide the viewer's eye and add a sense of depth and focus to the image.
How to Add Vignette Online Free
Upload your photo to imgresizr.com and open the Filters or Effects tool. Select "Vignette." Adjust three controls: Amount (how dark the edges get — start at 30–50%), Midpoint (how far the vignette extends from the edge — higher = more central fade), and Feather (how gradual the transition is — higher = softer edge). Apply and review at full zoom before downloading.
Vignette Strength Guide
| Amount | Effect | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 10–20% | Very subtle — barely visible | Professional finishing |
| 30–50% | Moderate — clearly present | Portraits, street photos |
| 60–80% | Strong — dramatic effect | Moody, dark aesthetic |
| 90%+ | Very heavy — artistic only | Stylised work |
When Not to Use Vignette
- Documentary and photojournalism — should not manipulate the scene
- Real estate photography — buyers need to see the full room corners
- Technical product photography — vignette may obscure product edges
- Panoramic photos — vignette looks unnatural on very wide images
Add a vignette effect to photos for free at imgresizr.com — subtle to dramatic edge darkening in seconds.