Abstract: An apparatus for providing an optical effect includes a processor for controlling the operation of the apparatus, and an interface for receiving image information including multiple image elements. The apparatus further includes a printing head (such as an ink jet printing head) including a first dispensing mechanism for dispensing a colored ink, and a second dispensing mechanism for dispensing a clear ink. The processor includes printing logic for instructing the printing head to print at least one image element on a base medium using the first dispensing mechanism, and to print at least one lens-like lenticule on the medium, at a prescribed position relative to the image element, using the second dispensing mechanism. The lenticule modifies a viewer's perception of the image element to thereby achieve the optical effect. According to one embodiment, the clear ink forms a substantially spherical projection.