Effects — Distort
Swirl effect
Twist the centre of your photo into a spiral with adjustable angle and radius.
- Status
- Live
- Category
- Distort
- Settings
- 2
What is the Swirl effect?
Swirl rotates pixels around the centre of the image, with the rotation fading out with distance, so the middle twists most. It creates a whirlpool or hypnotic spiral effect.
Angle controls how much the centre is twisted and Radius controls how far the swirl extends. Moderate values give a playful warp; extreme values produce a vortex.
Swirl settings
- Angle
- Radius
Best photos for it
- Playful and surreal portraits
- Abstract and psychedelic art
- Logos and posters
Tips for better results
- Tip 01
Centre the subject before swirling.
- Tip 02
Use a smaller radius to keep the outer parts of the photo intact.
- Tip 03
Try small angles first; the effect gets extreme quickly.
Common questions
Can I move the swirl centre?
The effect has Angle and Radius controls and is centred on the photo, so crop first to position your subject.
Similar effects
- Bulge / pinchPush the centre of a photo outward (bulge) or pull it inward (pinch) with amount and radius controls.Available
- WaveRipple your photo into smooth waves in any direction. Control direction, amplitude and wavelength.Available
- KaleidoscopeFold your photo into a repeating kaleidoscope pattern with adjustable segments and rotation.Available
Also searched as: Twirl effect, Spiral filter, Whirlpool effect.