Filter Flow

Transform your photos and videos with an intuitive node-based filter system. Chain effects together, blend inputs, and create unique visual experiences all on your iOS device.

How It Works

Input Nodes

Capture camera feed with optional adjustments like flipping and brightness control.

Color: Blue

Filter Nodes

Apply visual effects like blur, sepia, pixelate, and more with customizable parameters.

Color: Purple

Merge Nodes

Combine multiple inputs with blend modes like overlay, multiply, and screen.

Color: Green

Output Nodes

Deliver the final processed image or video to be captured or saved.

Color: Orange

Getting Started

1. Starting a New Graph

When you first open Filter Flow, you'll see the default setup with three basic nodes:

A Camera Input node (blue) at the top
A Filter node (purple) in the middle
A Final Output node (orange) at the bottom

The blue lines connecting the nodes show how image data flows from input through filters to output.

2. Adding New Nodes

To add a new filter or effect:

Tap the Add New button in the bottom-right corner
Choose a node type from the popup menu
Select the specific filter or effect you want to add

Each node type serves a different purpose in the processing chain:

Input Node: Source of image data (camera)
Filter Node: Applies visual effects
Merge Node: Combines multiple inputs
Output Node: Final result (only one allowed)

3. Editing Filter Parameters

Customize how your filters work by adjusting their parameters:

Tap on any node to open its settings
Adjust available parameters using the sliders
See real-time preview at the top of the settings
Tap Done when you're satisfied

Different filters have different parameters. For example, a pixelate filter lets you control the scale of the pixelation effect.

Tip: Experiment with extreme parameter values to see their full effect, then dial back to find the perfect balance.

4. Creating Complex Filter Chains

Build sophisticated effects by connecting multiple nodes:

Add several filter nodes to create a processing chain
Drag nodes to reposition them on the canvas
Connect nodes by tapping one and then another
Use Re-Order to automatically organize your nodes

The image data flows through connected nodes from top to bottom. Each node receives input from nodes above it and sends output to nodes below it.

Tip: If your graph gets too complex, you can use the Re-Order button to automatically organize your nodes.

5. Using Merge Nodes

Merge nodes allow you to combine multiple filter chains:

Add a Merge Node (green) to your graph
Connect two or more filter chains as inputs to the merge node
Select a blend mode (Overlay, Multiply, Screen, etc.)
Adjust opacity settings for each input if needed

Merge nodes are powerful for creating complex effects that would be impossible with a single filter chain. Try different blend modes to see how they combine your filters.

Note: Output nodes can only have one input. If you want to combine multiple effects, you must use a merge node first.

6. Previewing and Recording

When you're ready to see your creation in action:

Tap the Camera button in the bottom-right corner
See your filter chain in real-time with the camera preview
Note that your node graph is displayed at the top of the screen
Tap the record button to start capturing video with your filters applied
Tap again to stop recording

After recording, you can save the video to your camera roll or share it directly with friends.

Examples & Inspiration

Sample Effects

Here's an example of what you can create with Filter Flow:

This example uses a Temperature and Tint filter combined with a Pixelate effect, merged through an Overlay blend mode.

Creative Ideas:

Create a "cyberpunk" look with Edge Detection + Color Overlays
Make a dreamy aesthetic with Blur + Bloom filters
Design a vintage look with Sepia + Vignette + Grain
Experiment with Comic Effect + Color Adjustments for unique styles

Tips & Tricks

Start Simple: Begin with just 2-3 nodes before building more complex chains
Delete Nodes: Tap a node, then choose "Delete Node" from its settings
Performance: Very complex graphs may slow down preview performance
Save Favorites: Filter Flow automatically saves your node graphs
Connection Rules: Input nodes can't have inputs, Output nodes can't have outputs
Experiment: Try unexpected combinations for surprising results!

Need Help?

Questions? Support? Contact us at hello@principal.la