Understanding Bokeh: The Art of Background Blur

sarthhkk
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Joined: Sat Feb 17, 2024 4:56 pm

Hello Explorers 
Hope you guys are doing well. 
In this thread i am discussing about a very interesting term in photography called "Bokeh".

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Bokeh, originated from the Japanese word "boke" meaning "blur" or "haze," refers to the artistic aspect of a photograph's out-of-focus areas. It's a common photography technique to highlight the subject while blurring the background.
While bokeh is commonly associated with portraits, it can improve any image by providing depth and visual interest.
The Role of Aperture in Creating Bokeh
Bokeh is achieved by using a lens with a wide aperture, such as f/1.8 or f/2.0. The wider the aperture, the blurrier the background becomes, making the subject to stand out. This blur effect is perfect for highlighting your subject and turning the background into soft, smooth shape.
Smartphone Bokeh
Smartphone cameras now have portrait modes that uses AI to generate a bokeh effect, it uses AI to create a bokeh effect by blurring the background and making the subject stand out, simulating the look of a professional camera.
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Bokeh Beyond Portraits
Bokeh is popular in portraits, but it also works well in different genres of photography. Bokeh blurs the background in macro photos, draws attention toward subject in street or food photography.
For example close-ups of flowers or insects, allowing tiny details to stand out.
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Good vs. Bad Bokeh
Not all bokeh looks the same. Good bokeh is smooth and soft, highlighting the subject without being distracting. Bad bokeh may look harsh, with rough edges or unusual shapes that distract attention away from the main subject.
Summary
  • Bokeh enhances depth in photos by blurring backgrounds and making subjects stand out.
  • Wide apertures (like f/1.8 or f/2.0) are key to creating a strong bokeh effect.
  • Smartphones with portrait modes use AI to replicate bokeh, creating a professional look even on mobile phones.
  • Bokeh is used not only in portraits, but also in macro, street, and food photography to draw attention to delicate details.
  • Good bokeh is smooth and pleasing, while bad bokeh can be distracting.
Final Thoughts
Bokeh is more than just having a blurred background, it's about using that blur creatively.
Whether you're using a professional DSLR or a smartphone, understanding bokeh adds a creative touch to your pictures, highlighting your subjects in the most engaging way.

Read about Environmental Portraits

Thank you 
sarthhkk
@amnatureboy
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Joined: Sat Feb 17, 2024 6:28 pm

Great 😍
Sarfaraz Ahmad
RD.•°
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Joined: Wed Nov 29, 2023 10:45 am

Thanks for sharing & amazing shots 😍 
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