How to Blur Background on iPhone?

In the quest for professional-looking photos, many iPhone users encounter the challenge of capturing images with a sharp subject against a beautifully blurred background. This effect, often referred to as "bokeh," draws attention to the subject and creates a more visually appealing photo. However, achieving this effect consistently can be daunting, especially if you're not familiar with your iPhone's camera capabilities. This comprehensive guide on how to blur background on iPhone will help you understand and master the techniques necessary to elevate your photography game.

Table of Contents

1. Why Blurring Backgrounds Matters
2. Portrait Mode: Your Primary Tool
3. Editing iPhone Photos for Blur
4. Additional Apps to Achieve Background Blur
5. Tips for Better Background Blur
6. FAQ
7. Summary

Why Blurring Backgrounds Matters

The blurred background effect enhances the depth of your images, making them more professional and aesthetically pleasing. Originally a hallmark of DSLR cameras, achieving this effect on a smartphone was nearly impossible until technological advancements in mobile phone cameras. With the iPhone, you can now easily make your photos stand out. For instance, capturing candid moments at family gatherings or shooting close-up product photos becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience when the focus remains on the subject, and the background fades to a dreamy blur.

Portrait Mode: Your Primary Tool

Understanding Portrait Mode

Portrait Mode is perhaps the most well-known feature on iPhones for achieving a blurred background. Available on iPhone 7 Plus and later models, this mode uses dual-camera systems (or advanced single-camera systems in newer models) to keep the subject in sharp focus while softening the background.

How to Use Portrait Mode

• Open the Camera App: Simply launch the Camera app on your iPhone. Swipe through the modes at the bottom until you find "Portrait."
• Frame Your Subject: Ensure your subject is between 2–8 feet away for optimal results. If you're too close or too far, the app will provide an on-screen alert.
• Take the Photo: When taking a photo, wait for the depth-effect indicator (usually a yellow box) to appear before capturing the shot.
• Adjust the Effect: After taking the photo, you can adjust the depth using the edit mode and sliding the adjustment bar to fine-tune the blur effect.

Editing iPhone Photos for Blur

Utilizing the Built-in Photos App

For photos that didn't quite achieve the desired background blur during shooting, the Photos app offers tools to enhance blurring:

• Edit Your Photos: Open the photo in the Photos app and tap 'Edit.'
• Use Depth Control (for Portrait Mode): If you used Portrait Mode, you can access and adjust the depth blur. Drag the slider left or right to increase or decrease the blur.
• Applying Filters: Various filters, especially “Vivid” and “Dramatic,” can further enhance how the blurred background contrasts against the subject.

Additional Apps to Achieve Background Blur

Beyond the built-in capabilities of the iPhone, there are several third-party applications available to further refine or create a blurred background effect if your initial result isn’t satisfying.

1. Snapseed

• Offers a "Lens Blur" tool that lets you selectively blur portions of your photos, giving you finer control over how the blur is applied.

2. AfterFocus

• Simulates the shallow depth of field without the need for dual lenses. You can draw around the area you want in detail, and the app intelligently blurs the rest.

3. VSCO

• Known for its wide array of filters, VSCO also provides editing tools that subtly enhance the depth effect through selective focus techniques.

Tips for Better Background Blur

• Lighting Conditions: Adequate lighting can significantly impact the effectiveness of the Portrait mode. Make sure your subject is well-lit for sharper focus.
• Simplify Your Background: A less cluttered background will naturally enhance the bokeh effect, helping your subject stand out even more.
• Distance Yourself from the Background: By positioning your subject further from the background, you naturally increase the blur achieved with Portrait mode.

FAQ

1. Can older iPhones achieve a blurred background?
While the Portrait mode is not available in older models, you can use third-party apps like Snapseed or AfterFocus to simulate the blurred background effect.

2. How do I adjust the intensity of the blur in Portrait mode?
Post-capture, you can adjust the intensity of the blur by using the depth control feature available in the edit section of the Photos app for supported models.

3. What to do if Portrait Mode isn't working effectively?
Ensure your subject is within the specified range, and the lighting conditions are optimal. If problems persist, try updating your iOS or resetting your Camera settings.

4. Can I blur photos not taken in Portrait Mode?
Yes, third-party apps can be used to add blur effects to any photos, providing flexibility beyond the iPhone’s built-in capabilities.

Summary

To blur background on iPhone effectively, a mixture of utilizing the native Portrait mode, post-editing in the Photos app, and employing additional third-party apps as needed will significantly enhance the quality of your photos. By understanding the processes and techniques behind creating the perfect blur, you're well on your way to capturing stunning, professional-quality images with your iPhone.