DSLR Blur Effect in Any Photo: How to Make Your Pictures Look Like They Were Taken with a Professional Camera
Have you ever admired those beautiful photos where the subject is sharp and in focus, while the background is softly blurred? It’s like something straight out of a magazine or a professional photographer’s portfolio, right? Well, it’s not magic – it’s the DSLR blur effect, and you can create this professional-looking effect in any of your photos, even if you’re using a phone camera.
The DSLR blur effect, also known as bokeh, is a technique where the background of a photo is intentionally blurred while keeping the subject in sharp focus. This creates a striking contrast that draws attention to the subject and makes the photo feel more professional. But here’s the cool part: you don’t need an expensive DSLR camera to achieve this effect. With the right apps, tools, and a little creativity, you can add this blur effect to any photo you take.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating the DSLR blur effect on your photos, step-by-step, and share some tips and tools you can use to make your photos look like they were taken by a pro photographer. Let’s dive in!
What is the DSLR Blur Effect?
Before we start playing with tools and apps, let’s first understand what the DSLR blur effect is.
In photography, a DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera can produce a blurred background known as bokeh. This happens because of the camera’s large aperture, which creates a shallow depth of field. The result? The subject is in sharp focus, while the background gets a smooth, creamy blur.
The effect isn’t just pretty – it helps the viewer focus on the subject while making the background less distracting. It’s a classic technique used by photographers to make portraits and close-up shots more striking.
How to Achieve the DSLR Blur Effect with Your Phone Camera
Okay, so you’re probably thinking, “I don’t have a DSLR camera, how can I get this effect on my phone?” Great question! You can still create that gorgeous blurred background using your phone, and it’s easier than you think. Let’s go over some methods:
1. Use Portrait Mode (For Smartphones with It)
Many modern smartphones come with a portrait mode designed to mimic the DSLR blur effect. This mode uses software to detect the subject and blur the background automatically. Here’s how to use it:
- Open your camera app: Most newer phones like the iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel have a dedicated portrait mode.
- Select Portrait Mode: This mode uses AI to focus on the subject and blur the background.
- Frame your shot: Make sure there’s enough contrast between the subject and the background.
- Snap the photo: The camera will automatically adjust the focus and blur the background for you.
2. Get Close to Your Subject
Another way to naturally create the blur effect is by getting close to your subject and using a wide aperture. This can work even if your phone doesn’t have a portrait mode:
- Get close: Stand close to your subject to create more distance between them and the background. The closer you are to your subject, the blurrier the background will be.
- Use manual focus (if available): Some advanced camera apps or phones allow you to manually adjust focus. Focus on your subject and the background will blur out.
3. Adjust the Focus and Aperture Settings (Manual Control)
If your phone allows manual control over focus, ISO, and aperture, you can use these settings to control the depth of field. Here’s how to use them:
- Find manual camera settings: Some phones or third-party camera apps like Camera FV-5 (Android) or Manual (iOS) offer full manual control.
- Lower the aperture (f-stop): A smaller f-stop number (like f/1.8) gives you a shallow depth of field, which creates a blurry background.
- Focus on the subject: Tap to focus on your subject while adjusting the aperture and focus settings to ensure the background blurs.
How to Add a DSLR Blur Effect to Any Photo After Taking It
If you didn’t capture the perfect blur effect when taking the photo, don’t worry! You can always add the DSLR blur effect afterward using photo editing apps. Here’s how:
1. Use Apps for Editing (Blur the Background)
There are several apps designed to help you create the DSLR blur effect in post-processing. Some of the best apps for this are:
Snapseed
- How to Use: Snapseed is a free app with a Lens Blur tool that allows you to simulate the DSLR blur effect on your photos. Just open the photo in Snapseed, select the Lens Blur tool, and adjust the shape, intensity, and transition of the blur.
- Pro Tip: You can also use the Selective Adjust tool to focus on specific parts of the image while blurring the rest.
PicsArt
- How to Use: PicsArt has a blur tool that lets you easily add blur to any part of the photo. Open your photo in PicsArt, use the Effect tab to find the Blur option, and choose your desired blur style.
- Pro Tip: PicsArt also allows you to fine-tune the blur’s strength, size, and shape to create a smooth transition between focus and blur.
AfterFocus
- How to Use: AfterFocus is a dedicated app for creating DSLR-like bokeh effects. Simply take a photo with the app or import one, select your subject, and let the app automatically blur the background for you.
- Pro Tip: The app even offers different types of bokeh, including circular or oval blur, to give your photos a more natural look.
2. Blur the Background Manually Using Photoshop Express or Lightroom
If you’re familiar with desktop editing software, you can also use Photoshop Express or Lightroom to add the DSLR blur effect manually.
- How to Use: Open your photo in the app, select the Brush Tool, and adjust the softness of the brush. Apply it to the areas you want to blur, gradually increasing the effect until you get the desired look.
- Pro Tip: For more advanced effects, you can use the Gaussian Blur filter in Photoshop to control the strength of the blur.
Tips for Getting the Best DSLR Blur Effect
Here are some helpful tips to make sure your DSLR blur effect looks as professional as possible:
- Choose the Right Background: The background is key to achieving a beautiful bokeh. Choose a background with lights, patterns, or textures that will enhance the effect when blurred.
- Experiment with Focus: Play around with the focus to find what works best. Sometimes a slightly out-of-focus background is more attractive than a completely blurred one.
- Play with the Blur Intensity: A subtle blur can be more effective than an extreme one. Don’t overdo it – aim for a natural, smooth effect.
Comparison Table: Phone vs. App Editing for DSLR Blur Effect
| Method | Phone Camera with Portrait Mode | Manual Focus & Aperture (Advanced Control) | Editing Apps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Very easy and automated | Requires manual settings and focus control | Easy, with guided tools |
| Customization | Limited to built-in settings | High customization for depth of field | Highly customizable (blur strength, area) |
| Speed | Quick (auto blur) | Takes time and effort | Moderate (depends on app) |
| Quality | Great for portraits | High-quality blur if done right | High, but may not be as natural as real camera blur |
| Best For | Quick, natural bokeh | Creative professionals looking for full control | Casual users or non-professionals wanting fast results |
Final Thoughts
The DSLR blur effect is one of the most effective ways to make your photos stand out. Whether you’re using your phone’s portrait mode, taking advantage of manual settings, or using post-processing apps, you can create professional-looking images with ease. And the best part? You don’t need a fancy DSLR camera to get the effect – your phone camera or a simple editing app is enough to add some magic to your photos.
So, next time you’re snapping a picture, try out these techniques to create that stunning blurred background. Your photos will definitely look more impressive, and you’ll feel like a pro photographer!
