1. Using Tilt-Shift lens
Tilt-Shift lens are special lens with larger image circle. The resolution of image would be perfect, mostly used by professional. Mind you - tilt shift lens are very expensive (approx. AU $1800 onwards). These lens are also used for architectural, landscape and product photography. I'll write more about how tilt-shift lens is used in architectural photography in my next blog.
2. Photoshop
Post editing in Photoshop can add 'miniature effect' to any photo if you don't want to buy an expensive Tilt-Shift Lens. The quality would be good enough for medium size images.
3. TiltShiftMaker software (http://tiltshiftmaker.com/)
This by far is the best software to get this Diorama effect. On this website, upload the picture you want to convert into miniature effect photograph. After couple of easy steps, the photograph will be ready for you to download. Easy, entertaining and the best part is - it's free!
4. Mobile Apps
For all you 'App-lovers' this is another fun option - There are many apps like Camera 360, Little Photo etc. but Instagram is my favourite. Please note that the quality won't be as good as other options such as using Tilt-Shift Lens, photoshop or TiltShiftMaker software. But it'll definitely be entertaining.
After choosing your effect on Instagram app do the following:
- Tap the little droplet on top bar to choose 'radial' (circle) or 'linear' (line) focus.
- Tap the photo to move the focus around as you wish.
- Review and readjust the focus if you like.
- Then, 'Save'.
Here are some examples of my Tilt-Shift miniature effect photographs. Photographs remind me of building models I made during my architecture academic days.