(Photoshop) Soft Lens

This technique is frequently used for portrait images. Please follow the easy steps.
1. Duplicate layer by dragging “Background” layer over “create new layer” icon.

2. Apply filter Gaussian Blur (Filter>Blur>Gaussian Blur). I use 11 pixel for blur.

3. Reduce “Background copy” layer to 51% 4. Add layer mask into “Background copy”
5. Use brush to hide blurred area on eyes and lips of a model. I use only 50% Opacity on brush and then paint over eyes and lips to mask the blurred area. You should ensure that your color for the bush is black.
Before

After