In article <326A7244.1273@mail.idt.net>, cleeds@mail.idt.net says...
>I had written:
>
>> >In an out of focus image, the shadows bleed into the highlights. In a
>> >soft focus image, the highlights bleed into the shadows. It's a major
>> >difference.
>
>and David Jacobson wrote:
>
>> Are you sure of this? I thought the difference you mention is the
>> difference between an out of focus enlarger and an out of focus or
>> soft focus lens on the camera.
>
>Oh yes, I'm quite sure. It's why photogs spend $$$ on soft focus lenses
>or good soft focus filters like the Softars; soft focus and out of focus
>are two very different things. Make some sample shots for yourself of the
>same subject, and you'll find out.

While I would agree that "soft focus" lenses do spread light areas
into dark (while keeping some sharp focus), defocusing the taking
lens will also spread light into darker areas (while softening the
image focus). D. Jacobson is quite correct in what he pointed out.
It's not just an "apples and oranges" comparison, but an "apples,
oranges, and peaches" sort of thing: the effects of defocusing a
taking lens, defocusing an enlarging lens (with negative materials),
and using a (good) "soft focus" lens are all quite different.
Hope This Helps