Practical exercise
Creating background blur (bokeh): try it yourself


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.
