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# apply(_:arguments:options:)

Produces a [`CIImage`](/documentation/CoreImage/CIImage) object by applying arguments to a kernel function and using options to control how the kernel function is evaluated.

```
func apply(_ k: CIKernel, arguments args: [Any]?, options dict: [String : Any]? = nil) -> CIImage?
```

## Parameters

`k`

A `CIKernel` object that contains a kernel function.

`args`

The arguments that are type compatible with the function signature of the kernel function.

`dict`

A dictionary that contains options (key-value pairs) to control how the kernel function is evaluated.

## Return Value

The [`CIImage`](/documentation/CoreImage/CIImage) object produced by a filter.

## Discussion

If you are implementing a custom filter, this method needs to be called from within the [`outputImage`](/documentation/CoreImage/CIFilter-swift.class/outputImage) method in order to apply your kernel function to the [`CIImage`](/documentation/CoreImage/CIImage) object. You can pass any of the keys defined in [Options for Applying a Filter](/documentation/CoreImage/options-for-applying-a-filter), along with appropriate values, into the options dictionary.

## See Also

[`-  apply:`](/documentation/CoreImage/CIFilter-swift.class/apply:)

Produces a [`CIImage`](/documentation/CoreImage/CIImage) object by applying a kernel function.


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