Question 1

What does a vignette do?

Accepted Answer

It darkens the corners and edges, which makes the centre of the frame appear brighter by contrast and draws the viewer’s eye to the subject. It is one of the oldest and most reliable tricks in portrait and product photography.

Question 2

How strong should a vignette be?

Accepted Answer

If a viewer notices the vignette, it is too strong. Around 30–50 reads as natural light falloff; above about 70 it looks like a filter was applied, which is occasionally the goal but rarely.

Add a vignette to a photo