Blur Backgrounds in GIMP 2.10 – Shallow Depth of Field Effect

In this tutorial, we will learn how to create a bouquet effect image, also known as a blurred background effect, using GIMP 2.10. This effect is popular in photography and graphic design, as it helps to emphasise the subject by blurring the background. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Downloading Images

First, we need to download two images: one for the background and one of the subject. You can find these images online or use your own. For this tutorial, I will provide links to the images in the YouTube description.

1. Open your web browser and download the background image.
2. Download the image of the subject (in this case, a lady).
3. Drag and drop both images into a folder on your desktop.

Step 2: Setting Up the Canvas

Now that we have our images, let’s set up our canvas in GIMP:

1. Open GIMP and go to File > New.
2. Set the dimensions to 1920 x 1080 pixels.
3. Click on Advanced Options and set the resolution to 73 DPI.
4. For the fill, select Transparency and click OK.

You should now have a transparent canvas ready for editing.

Step 3: Adding the Background Image

Next, we will add the background image to our canvas:

1. Drag and drop the background image into the GIMP window.
2. Use the Control key and the mouse wheel to zoom out, allowing you to see the entire canvas.
3. Select the Scale Tool and click on the background image to resize it. If you cannot see the target size, reduce the opacity of the image temporarily to help with alignment.
4. Once resized, set the opacity back to 100%.

Step 4: Positioning the Background

1. Select the Move Tool and click on the background image.
2. Hold down the Shift key and use the arrow keys to position the image correctly on the canvas.
3. Save your work by pressing Ctrl + S and naming the file appropriately.

Step 5: Opening the Subject Image

Now, let’s work on the image of the lady:

1. Close the background layer temporarily to save memory.
2. Go to File > Open and select the image of the lady.
3. We will need to remove the background from this image.

Step 6: Selecting the Subject

To select the subject, we will use the Foreground Select Tool:

1. Click on the Foreground Select Tool and draw a lasso around the subject.
2. Once the initial selection is made, press Enter to confirm.
3. Use the paintbrush that appears to paint over the subject, ensuring you stay within the lines of the selection.
4. Adjust the brush size as needed for more precise control.

Step 7: Refining the Selection

1. Zoom in to refine the edges of your selection, especially around complex areas like hair and hands.
2. Use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out as needed.
3. Be patient and take your time to ensure a clean selection.

Step 8: Creating a New Layer for the Subject

Once you are satisfied with the selection:

1. Go to Edit > Copy to copy the selected subject.
2. Create a new blank layer and set it to Transparency.
3. Paste the subject onto this new layer and anchor it.
4. Hide the original image layer to see the cut-out subject against the background.

Step 9: Tidying Up the Edges

1. Use the Eraser Tool to clean up any rough edges around the subject.
2. Adjust the brush size for more detailed work, especially around the hair and fingers.
3. Remember to save your work frequently.

Step 10: Applying the Blur Effect

Now that we have our subject isolated, we can apply the blur effect to the background:

1. Duplicate the background layer multiple times to create different versions.
2. Select the top background layer and go to Filters > Blur > Gaussian Blur.
3. Adjust the blur radius to achieve the desired effect (around 10 to 12 pixels usually works well).
4. Click OK to apply the blur.

Step 11: Experimenting with Different Blur Effects

You can experiment with different types of blur effects:

1. Try Zoom Blur or Radial Blur by selecting the respective options under the Filters > Blur menu.
2. Adjust the settings to see how they affect the background.
3. Save each version as a separate file to compare later.

Step 12: Finalising the Image

Once you are satisfied with the blurred background:

1. Go to File > Export As and save your final image in JPEG format.
2. You can also set the image as your desktop background to see how it looks in real-time.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have covered the steps to create a beautiful blurred background effect using GIMP 2.10. This technique can enhance your images and make your subjects stand out. With practice, you can apply this method to various images, creating stunning visuals.

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