Blurry backgrounds—also known as bokeh—are one of the most popular effects in photography.
They make your subject stand out by keeping the background soft and out of focus. Whether you’re shooting portraits, products, or food, a blurred background adds a professional and artistic touch.
Here’s how to achieve that effect, even if you’re just starting out.
1. Use a wide aperture (low f-number)
The most effective way to get a blurry background is by using a wide aperture. This means setting your f-stop to a low number—like f/1.8, f/2.8, or f/3.5. The lower the number, the wider the aperture, and the shallower the depth of field.
Not all lenses go as low as f/1.8, so check your lens specifications. A “nifty fifty” (50mm f/1.8) is a great, affordable option for this effect.
2. Get closer to your subject
The closer you are to your subject, the blurrier the background will appear. This increases the depth difference between the subject and background, exaggerating the out-of-focus effect.
For portraits, don’t be afraid to move in and fill the frame.
3. Increase the distance between subject and background
The more distance there is between your subject and the background, the more out-of-focus that background will be. For example, place your subject several metres in front of trees, a wall, or any background elements you want blurred.
This trick works especially well outdoors or in open spaces.
4. Use a longer focal length
Longer lenses naturally compress the background and enhance blur. If you’re using a zoom lens, try zooming in to 85mm, 100mm, or more. This makes the background appear closer and softer while keeping your subject sharp.
Portrait photographers often use lenses like 85mm or 135mm for this very reason.
5. Focus on the subject’s eyes
For portraits, always focus on the eyes. This ensures they stay sharp while the rest of the background falls away into a pleasant blur. Most cameras allow you to manually select the focus point—use it to your advantage.
6. Use portrait mode (for phones)
If you’re using a smartphone, many newer models have a “portrait mode” that mimics the blurred background effect using software. While not as authentic as a camera with a wide aperture, it can still look impressive and works well in good lighting.
Getting a blurry background in your photos is all about controlling depth of field. Use a wide aperture, move closer to your subject, and create distance from the background. With practice and the right lens, you’ll be creating beautifully soft backgrounds that elevate your photography in no time.
