/* Original image bytes remain unchanged. White edge overlays only. */
.hero-photo { margin:0; position:relative; background:#fff; }
.hero-photo > img { display:block; width:100%; height:auto; }
.hero-photo.blended::after {
  content:""; position:absolute; inset:0; pointer-events:none;
  background:
    linear-gradient(to right,#fff 0%,rgba(255,255,255,0) 8%,rgba(255,255,255,0) 92%,#fff 100%),
    linear-gradient(to bottom,#fff 0%,rgba(255,255,255,0) 6%,rgba(255,255,255,0) 84%,#fff 100%);
}
/* Keep these fade stops fixed relative to this exact, uncropped portrait.
   Face, glasses, polo, forearms and hands are in the fully clear center.
   The bottom fade is restricted to the lower trousers.
   This blends the frame edges, not the entire interior gray backdrop. */