Learn / Lesson 26 / Practical
Practical exercise

Creating background blur (bokeh): try it yourself

Photograph by Carl Cooper LRPS illustrating creating background blur bokeh
Photograph by Carl Cooper LRPS.

1. Light Bokeh

Hang fairy lights or place candles behind a subject; shoot wide open.

2. Distance Trick

Move subject far from background (e.g., against wall vs. 6ft from wall).

3. Zoom + Aperture

Use longest zoom + widest aperture for maximum blur.

4. DIY Bokeh Shapes

Cut a heart/star in black paper, tape over lens; create shaped bokeh.

5. Toy Portrait

Photograph a stuffed animal with lamp glow in background; f/3.5 or wider.