Gimp, color menu > tone map > stress, blend with divide

I just found this effect about two weeks ago or less.

It is an amazing way to blur and brighten an image. Stressneffect by itself with replace / normal blend options isn’t too interesting.

Change the blending option to divide.

Set opacity to around 64 or 78.

Set radius to 700 or 1000

5 to 10 samples

Set Interations to a level that clears up all the bright specs.

Another blending option using stress that really makes a difference is difference. For some images, it gives an entirely new and interesting style.