Blur backgrounds the easy way

Get a sharp subject on a fuzzy backdrop in just a few steps

1 Dial in your settings

Use Aperture Priority mode and dial in the lowest f/number your lens allows. Pro lenses will give you f/2.8 or even faster, but ‘kit’ lenses will usually offer a maximum aperture of f/3.5 to f/4. Use ISO 100 to produce the best image quality.

2 Frame up and focus

For a head and shoulders portrait, use a focal length of at least 70mm to avoid distorting facial features, and compose your shot. Focus on the closest eye by moving the active AF point over it and half-pressing the shutter. Take a test shot.

3 Check focus on screen

Check the focus point and the background blur on screen. If the blur is not enough, increase the distance between subject and background, or move the camera closer to the subject (if possible). Doing this will create more background blur.