Pixel Scatter Effect

Break the original image into textured fragments with directional scatter, a local burst, or subtle floating motion.

Try this sample

Use an image Randomize

Runs locally No upload

Pixel Scatter result made from the bundled sample

The source dispersed into a restrained field of sampled pixels.

Facts

Category: Motion
Works with: Image
Exports: PNG / JPEG / Video
Runs in: Your browser, and the SHADR iPhone app
Your images: Processed on your device, not uploaded
Cost: Free in the browser

Pull sampled color apart and let depth do the rest.

Pixel Scatter is a free browser tool that breaks a photo into textured fragments and scatters them: in one direction, outward from a point, or as a slow float.

Start

Use your own image or open the bundled sample.

Shape

Build the result with Background color, Scatter Mode, and Scatter Strength, then refine the remaining controls in real time.

Export

Render PNG / JPEG / Video output and download it directly to your device.

Use it for

Parallax image loops
Pixel-based collage studies
Depth-led backgrounds and transitions

Key controls

Background colorSet this color directly in the working palette.
Scatter ModeChoose Directional Scatter, Local Burst, and Gentle Float.
Scatter StrengthTune from 0% to 100%.

All controls4

Affected AreaTune from 0% to 100%.

On the Web

Export motion as video instead of Live Photo.

In the iPhone app, Live Photo export is available.

Get the iPhone app

How Pixel Scatter works

The picture is split into blocks that drift away from where they started. Scatter Mode chooses the behaviour (Directional Scatter, Local Burst or Gentle Float). Scatter Strength (0–100%, default 42%) sets how far the blocks move and Affected Area (0–100%) how much of the picture is affected. Scatter Direction (0–360°) sets the angle, and Center X and Center Y (0–100%) place the centre.

Block Size (1–12) and Block Density (0–100%) set the size and the density of the blocks. For motion, Motion Drift (0–100%) sets the drift and Cycles per Loop (1, 2 or 3) the number of cycles in a loop; in the browser the motion exports as video, and in the iPhone app as a Live Photo.

Choosing a photo

Photos with a clear subject against a calmer background make it easy to see what has scattered.

Settings worth changing first

Scatter Mode: Directional Scatter, Local Burst or Gentle Float.
Scatter Strength (0–100%, default 42%) and Affected Area (0–100%, default 58%).
Scatter Direction (0–360°, default 0°) and the centre, Center X and Center Y.
Block Size (1–12, default 5) and Block Density (0–100%, default 72%).

Presets

Directional Scatter, Local Burst and Gentle Float.

Before you start

What does the pixel scatter effect do?

It cuts the image into small blocks and moves them away from their places, so the photo seems to dissolve into fragments. How far, in which direction and from where is up to you.

How do I scatter the pixels in one direction?

Choose Directional Scatter under Scatter Mode and set Scatter Direction (0–360°). Scatter Strength (0–100%) sets how far the blocks travel.

How do I make the burst come from one point?

Choose Local Burst and place the centre with Center X and Center Y (0–100%). Affected Area (0–100%) sets how wide the burst reaches.

What can I export?

PNG or JPEG at 1600, 2200 or 3200 pixels on the long edge, or video when you animate it; Live Photo export needs the iPhone app. The photo is processed in the browser and is not uploaded.

What changes on the Web?

Export motion as video instead of Live Photo.

Continue with SHADR on iPhone after you create in the browser.

Get the iPhone app