how do you shoot an image with a digital slr and blur the background?

Answer 1

You can search on "depth of field" and "bokeh" to learn about the mechanics and physics at work in blurring the background, but in general, you want to use a lens that is fast (i.e. with an aperture of F2.8 or lower) and then shoot wide open (meaning at the largest aperture i.e. f2.8 or lower). There is actually a feature in the new paintshop pro XI which simulates depth of field by blurring the background, but it is a weak substitue for the real thing. If you are working with a consumer grade lens that only opens to F 5.6 or so, you can still get depth of field by moving closer to your subject with the lens wide open.

The crop factor on the digital SLR has no impact on this (as implied by one of the other posters) and in fact with my Canon 1D MKIIN and 300 2.8 lens, I manage to get some very nice blurred background despite the 1.3x crop factor.

Answer 2

The trouble with digital cameras is that, due to the small focal length of their lenses (not the 35mm equivalent, which is often quoted) it is difficult to get a small depth of field by 'opening up' the lens. This is particularly a problem with compacts. if you have a DSLR, then you need to invest in a prime lens - i.e one that is not a zoom. You need something like a 50mm 1.2 or 1.4 lens. Of course, the longer the focal length, the smaller the depth of field, so you need to use a zoom at it 'long' end, usually about 300mm (but use a tripod!)

Answer 3

Skipping the explanation of the physics behind it, use the largest aperature setting you have (i.e., the _smallest_ f number - usually something like 1.2, 1.4, 2.8 etc, depending on the lens), and get reasonably close to the object/person you're focusing on. Seem some examples of mine here and here

Alternatively, you can stand a bit back from the subject, but zoom in tightly on the object, again using a wider aperature (small f stop), such as I did here:

Answer 4

try different focal length to achieve the effect you like. For a digital SLR guide ... http://www.geocities.com/lcming/cameras

Answer 5

Try using Photoshop.I know that you can change and manipulate any photograph withcthis tool.Good luck

Answer 6

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