The VHS effect turns a photo into a frame from a well-loved videotape: horizontal scanlines from the CRT, color channels bleeding sideways because analog tape never quite aligned them, and a wash of tape noise over everything. It is the visual language of home videos, 80s horror covers and vaporwave — instantly recognizable and heavy with nostalgia.
Scanlines controls the CRT line pattern, Color bleed drags the red and blue channels apart horizontally like misaligned tape heads, and Tape noise adds the analog static. Stack all three high for full “found footage,” or keep them subtle for a gentle retro cast. Everything renders locally in your browser — free, instant, private.
How to add the vhs / retro effect to a photo
Tips for the best vhs / retro look
- The effect looks best on photos with some motion or atmosphere — parties, streets at night, portraits with flash.
- For a vaporwave aesthetic, apply VHS on top of a pink/purple scene or combine with the Cyberpunk effect first.
- Export as PNG if you want the scanlines pixel-perfect; JPEG can slightly soften them.
VHS / Retro effect — FAQ
What creates the real VHS look?
Three artifacts: interlaced scanlines from CRT displays, chroma misalignment (color bleeding sideways) from analog tape, and luminance noise from the magnetic medium. This effect simulates each one with its own slider.
Can I make it subtle instead of full retro?
Yes — set all three sliders low (15–25) and reduce Strength. You get a gentle analog haze rather than an obvious effect, which works nicely for moody portraits.
Is this the same as a glitch effect?
They are cousins. VHS simulates continuous analog degradation (lines, bleed, noise), while glitch simulates digital corruption (displaced blocks, torn slices). Try both — they stack surprisingly well.