Tilt-Shift Miniature Effect

Make real cities, streets and landscapes look like tiny toy models with a sharp focus band, blurred edges and vivid colours.

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1Add your photo

Showing a sample photo. Upload your own to edit it.

2Choose an effect
3Fine-tune

How to use Tilt-Shift Effect

  1. 1

    Add your photo

    Drop, paste or choose a photo. A sample photo is shown until you add yours.

  2. 2

    Adjust the tilt-shift effect

    The tilt-shift effect is already selected. Fine-tune the settings and intensity, and compare before and after.

  3. 3

    Download

    Save in full resolution as JPG, PNG or WEBP, or stack more effects first.

How the miniature effect works

Real tilt-shift lenses create a very narrow band of focus, the way macro photos of small objects look. Recreating that blur on a normal photo tricks the brain into seeing a miniature model.

For the best result

  • Use photos taken from high up, looking down at a scene: rooftops, streets, harbours, stadiums.
  • Place the focus band on the main subject with Focus position and adjust its width.
  • Increase Toy colours and contrast for that plastic-model look.

Looking for other looks? The full Photo Filters & Effects tool has 17 effects you can combine.

Frequently asked questions

Which photos work best for tilt-shift?
Wide scenes shot from above, such as cityscapes, streets with cars and people, harbours and festivals.
Can I move the sharp area?
Yes. Use Focus position to move the band up or down and Focus band to change its width.
Are my photos uploaded?
No. Every effect is rendered in your browser with the HTML canvas. Your photos never leave your device and nothing is stored on a server.
Is it free?
Yes, completely free with no sign-up, no watermark and full-resolution downloads.
Can I combine it with other effects?
Yes. Click + Stack another effect to add grain, a vignette, a vintage look or any of the 17 effects.

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