Bluring the background

[efiste2]

How would I blur the background of the picture, Im looking to give the picture some subtle depth, and bring the subjects very slighlty forward, if that makes sense......

 

[IamSam]

Hello and welcome.

Duplicate the original twice. Turn off (deactivate) the original layer.
Turn off (deactivate) the second (Top) duplicate layer.

On the first duplicate, right click and convert to a smart object.
Add a smart Gaussian blur filter and adjust. We are using a SO so we can edit the blur later if required.

Now turn on (activate) the first duplicate layer.
Add a layer mask .
Select the Brush Tool and a soft round brush with low settings. Set the foreground color to black.
Click on the layer mask and use the Brush Tool to brush in the blurred background.



You can also add a Curves Adjustment layer to the first copy layer to darken the BG.
This can add depth and focus on the subjects.

 

[JeffK]

If you're using the newest version of Photoshop, you can go to Filter> Neural Filters>Depth Blur





You can use the controls to adjust the strength of the blur and the depth of the blur.
Just another way to do this in addition to what @IamSam provided. Use what works for you and works for the image.

Here's a tutorial from PHLearn/Aaron Nace...

- Jeff

 

[efiste2]

Thanks so much for the great advice!!!!

 

[IamSam]

You're very welcome.