How to Get Blurry Backgrounds: The Magic of Depth of Field

If there is one thing that screams "professional photography," it is a tack-sharp subject isolated against a beautifully creamy, blurred background. This effect is called a shallow depth of field, and learning how to achieve it is a highlight of any photography 101 course.

The Role of Aperture

The primary way to control depth of field is through your lens's aperture. A wide aperture (represented by a small f-number, like f/1.8 or f/2.8) creates a shallow depth of field, blurring the background. A narrow aperture (like f/8 or f/11) keeps more of the scene in focus.

Distance Matters

But aperture isn't the only factor. The distance between you and your subject, and the distance between your subject and the background, play a massive role. If your subject is standing flat against a wall, the wall won't blur, no matter what aperture you use.

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