Concerning sharpening/blurring.

They say that sharpening should be your last step, but what if I wanted to try for that soft dreamy look? Should I still sharpen first, or does the blur actually Un-sharpen the pic. What I am wanting is sharp clear eyes, but softer looking skin, and don't have Photoshop, so don't know how to keep the two seperate. Any suggestions?

Also, if shooting through my cokin soft filter, does it make it harder to sharpen the image? I would think so, but have never tried this filter with digital.

I'd start by posting in the Post-processing forum.

You'll need software that allows selection and layering. You might look into Paintshop Pro or other, lower cost alternatives.

Sorry for posting in the wrong place. Thanks.