Blurring the background on your iPhone is a snap with the built-in Portrait Mode feature! All you need to do is open your Camera app, swipe to Portrait Mode, and snap a photo. Your iPhone will automatically blur the background, making your subject stand out. It’s that easy!
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Blur Background on iPhone
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to know that blurring the background on your iPhone is made possible by Portrait Mode. This mode uses advanced algorithms and the iPhone’s dual-camera system (available on iPhone 7 Plus and later models) to create a depth-of-field effect.
Step 1: Open the Camera app
Launch the Camera app on your iPhone.
Opening the Camera app is your first step to getting that professional-looking blurred background effect. It’s the gateway to all the photography magic your iPhone can perform!
Step 2: Swipe to Portrait Mode
Swipe left or right until you reach Portrait Mode.
Portrait Mode is specifically designed to focus on the subject and blur the background. It’s like having a high-end DSLR camera right in your pocket!
Step 3: Compose your shot
Frame your subject in the viewfinder.
Make sure your subject is between two and eight feet away from the camera for the best effect. The person or object should be the main focus, with the background behind them.
Step 4: Take the photo
Press the shutter button to take your photo.
As soon as you click the shutter, your iPhone will work its magic. The subject stays sharp while the background gets that creamy blur, known as ‘bokeh’ in photography terms.
After you’ve snapped your photo, you’ll instantly see the blurred background effect. It’s a great way to make your portraits look more professional, or simply to draw attention to the subject of your photo.
Tips: Blurring Background on iPhone
- Make sure there’s good lighting; Portrait Mode works best with plenty of light.
- Get closer to your subject for a more pronounced blur effect.
- Use the Depth Control feature to adjust the blur strength after taking the photo.
- Try different angles and compositions for creative effects.
- If you have an iPhone XR or later, Portrait Mode works with not just people, but pets and objects too!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Portrait Mode on an iPhone 6?
Unfortunately, Portrait Mode is only available on the iPhone 7 Plus and later models.
Can I edit the blur effect after taking the photo?
Yes, you can adjust the blur strength using the Depth Control slider in the Photos app.
Does Portrait Mode work in low light?
Portrait Mode requires good lighting. If it’s too dark, you might see a message saying more light is required.
Can I use Portrait Mode on the front-facing camera?
Yes, starting with the iPhone X, Portrait Mode is available on the front-facing camera as well.
What if the background doesn’t blur?
Make sure there’s enough distance between the subject and the background. Also, check that you’re using Portrait Mode and not another camera mode.
Summary
- Open the Camera app.
- Swipe to Portrait Mode.
- Compose your shot.
- Take the photo.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to blur the background on your iPhone, you’re well on your way to taking stunning portraits that pop! This feature is a game-changer for iPhone photography, allowing even amateur photographers to capture professional-looking shots. With a little practice and experimentation, you’ll be creating beautiful portraits with perfectly blurred backgrounds in no time.
Remember, the key is to make sure your subject is well-lit and at the ideal distance for Portrait Mode to work its magic. Don’t be afraid to play around with different angles, distances, and compositions to find what works best for your style. And with the additional tips provided, you’ll be able to fine-tune that blur to perfection.
Whether you’re taking photos of your friends, family, pets, or even inanimate objects, mastering the blur background effect on your iPhone will elevate your photos to new heights. So go ahead, grab your iPhone, and start blurring those backgrounds!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.