How to Blur the Background of a Photo Online

Get DSLR-Quality Background Blur from Any Photo

That creamy, blurred background you see in professional portraits comes from shallow depth of field — typically requiring an expensive lens shot wide open. AI background blur gives you the same effect on any photo, even phone snapshots. The subject stays sharp while the background melts into a soft, pleasing blur.

How AI Background Blur Works

EditThisPic's AI identifies the main subject in your photo — a person, pet, product, or object — and creates a precise separation mask. It then applies a graduated blur to the background that mimics how a real camera lens renders out-of-focus areas. The blur intensity increases with distance from the subject, just like optical depth of field.

Types of Background Blur You Can Apply

• Soft bokeh blur — smooth, circular highlights for a classic portrait look
• Heavy blur — stronger defocus for maximum subject isolation
• Subtle blur — gentle softening that adds depth without being obvious
• Gaussian blur — even blur across the entire background
• Tilt-shift blur — selective focus that makes scenes look miniature

When to Blur the Background

Product photography benefits from blurred backgrounds to keep attention on the item. LinkedIn headshots look more professional with a soft background. Pet photos pop when the dog or cat is sharp against a blurred park. Even casual selfies improve dramatically when a cluttered background is softened into a clean wash of color.

Tips for the Best Background Blur

Photos with a clear subject separated from the background produce the best results. If the subject blends into the background (same colors, no contrast), specify what to keep sharp: 'blur everything except the person in the red jacket.' For product photos, 'blur the background, keep the product sharp' works well. You can control intensity with words like 'subtle,' 'moderate,' or 'heavy' blur.