How to Add a Blurred Background to Vertical Videos in iMovie

Adding a Blurred Background to Your Vertical Video

Vertical videos often appear dull when displayed on horizontal screens, as the black bars on the sides take up valuable real estate. A common solution is to blur the background while keeping the main subject sharp, creating a polished, professional look. Below is a step‑by‑step guide to achieve this effect in iMovie, plus an easy one‑click alternative using FlexClip.

Table of Contents

1. Using iMovie’s Pull Focus Title to Blur the Background
2. Alternative: Quick Blur with FlexClip
3. Bonus: Free Video Templates for Inspiration

1. Blur the Background with iMovie’s Pull Focus Title

iMovie does not provide a built‑in blur filter for vertical footage, but you can use the Pull Focus title to create a subtle background blur.

1. Import Your Video – Open iMovie, click Create a New Project, and drag your vertical clip onto the timeline.
2. Add the Pull Focus Title – From the Titles library, choose Pull Focus and drag it over your clip. Stretch the title to cover the entire length of the video.
3. Remove Text – In the viewer, delete the default title and subtitle text. The effect now appears as a blurred background with no overlay text.
4. Export the Blurred Clip – Export the resulting clip. If the blur isn’t strong enough, repeat the Pull Focus step on the exported file and re‑export.
5. Crop to Fill – Use the Crop tool and select Crop to Fill to center the blurry background. Adjust the crop box as needed.
6. Layer Your Original Video – Drag the original vertical clip back onto the timeline above the blurred background. Position it centrally so the sides are now covered by the blur.

Once completed, you’ll have a vertical video with a smooth blurred backdrop that eliminates the distracting black bars.

2. Quick Alternative: FlexClip

If the Pull Focus method feels cumbersome, FlexClip offers a single‑click solution. FlexClip’s “Blanking Fill” feature automatically adds a blurred background to any vertical video.

1. Upload Your Video – Go to FlexClip’s online editor and upload your vertical footage from your computer or mobile device.
2. Add to Canvas – Click the plus icon, then use the Zoom tool’s Fit mode to display the full clip.
3. Enable Blur Background – Click the Background Color icon, select Blur, and FlexClip will instantly apply a blurred backdrop.

FlexClip also provides a range of customizable templates to further enhance your video. Explore their library for ideas and inspiration.

3. Bonus: Free Video Templates You Might Love

• Modern Clean Relax Travel Memory Story Photo Slideshow
• Minimal Lover Family Travel Camping Vlog Photo Collage Slideshow
• Simple Multiscreen Photo Collage Fashion Life Travel Business Slideshow
• Funny Transition Kid Family Birthday Lover Friend Travel Happy Memories Photo Collage Slideshow

Useful Links

• Create Video Faster with FlexClip’s Pre‑Made Templates →
• Start from Scratch Easily with FlexClip’s Online Video Maker →
• Can't Miss: How to Change Aspect Ratio in iMovie >

Meet the Creator

Sandy has years of professional photography experience and is passionate about all things video production. She loves exploring tips and tricks to capture every detail of life.