We used the same model, the same backdrop, and the same lighting. Then we added three different practical effects to show how much they can change the vibe of a photo.
Why fake it when you can make it?
We always spend time editing and retouching our images, but we try to create as much as we can in real life. For us, practical effects usually win out. They’re more fun, more creative, and way more collaborative. They give the model something to interact with. They make the whole experience feel more alive.
And honestly, it’s just more fulfilling to build something together in the studio than to sit behind a screen trying to fake the vibe later.
So what counts as a practical effect?
In photography, it’s anything done in front of the lens to alter the image in real time. That could mean shooting through an object, using a filter, playing with lighting tricks, or building a physical frame for your shot.
They’re not new, but they’ve gotten a little controversial. One of our instagram reels recently passed a million views, and the comments turned into a whole debate—should we have done the effect in post instead of in camera?
Lately, it feels like the photo world has split into two camps. Team Practical vs. Team Post.
We’re Team Practical all day. We like the challenge. We like the energy on set. And we love the moment when we all see the image come to life and get that “oh wow” reaction.
So for this shoot, we kept things simple. We used a single-color red backdrop, painted a few set pieces to match, and brought in three practical effects to make it visually exciting. Same setup, totally different impact. Here’s how we did it.
1. The Keyhole
We’d been seeing keyhole shoots pop up on Instagram and wanted to try our own version. We laser-cut a keyhole shape into a piece of plywood using our laser cutter, mounted it to a C-stand, and painted it red to match the set.
Shooting through it gave us lots of flexibility. Depending on how close the model stood, she looked like she was peeking through. It gave the image a voyeuristic, cinematic quality that totally shifted the tone.
We love shoot-through sets so much that we started selling them. You can grab a keyhole or another shape here.
2. The Rectangle Frame
For this effect, we used a rectangular shoot-through frame, almost like a matte for the image. The set was super simple—just red seamless paper from Kate Backdrops. But by shooting through the rectangle, it made the space feel much more immersive.
It gave the illusion of a full-scale box set without any major build. Same gear, same setup, totally different feel.
3. The Halo Filter from Prism Lens FX
Our third effect came from one of our favorite lens tools: the Subtle Halo Filter from Prism Lens FX. It distorts the outer edges of the frame while keeping the center in focus, adding a dreamy, emotional edge to the shot.
For this setup, our model was reading a newspaper and reacting to the chaos in the world. The distorted halo around her echoed the feeling of overwhelm, like her thoughts were spinning. It really added to the image by visually mimicking her emotions.
Want to try it yourself? Use code JADAANDDAVID for 15% off at Prism Lens FX.
One Set, Endless Possibilities
This shoot reminded us why we always reach for practical effects. We didn’t change the lighting. We didn’t move locations. We didn’t swap wardrobe. But by using three different in-camera effects, we created three completely different worlds.
