1. Aperture Priority:
* Use a wide aperture: This is the most crucial element. A wide aperture (low f-number, e.g., f/1.4, f/1.8, f/2.8) creates a shallow depth of field, blurring the background significantly. The smaller the f-number, the shallower the depth of field.
* Shoot in Aperture Priority mode (Av or A): This allows you to select the aperture while the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed. This is the easiest way to control depth of field.
2. Lens Choice:
* Longer focal lengths: Longer lenses (e.g., 85mm, 105mm, 135mm) naturally compress the background and make it easier to blur. A 50mm lens can also work well, but longer lenses generally provide better bokeh.
* Fast lenses: These lenses have wider maximum apertures (e.g., f/1.4, f/1.8), allowing for greater background blur.
3. Distance:
* Get closer to your subject: The closer you are to your subject, the more blurred the background will be. This compresses the background and increases the relative distance between your subject and the background.
* Move your subject further from the background: The greater the distance between your subject and the background, the easier it is to blur the background.
4. Other Factors:
* Focus precisely on your subject: Accurate focusing is critical. If your subject is slightly out of focus, the blur will be less effective.
* Consider the background itself: A busy background will be harder to blur effectively than a simple, uncluttered one. Choose backgrounds that are far enough away to be easily blurred. A smooth, even background will often produce more pleasing bokeh than a textured one.
* Sensor Size: Larger sensors (full-frame, APS-C) generally produce better bokeh than smaller sensors (micro four-thirds) due to the larger image circle.
* Lighting: Sufficient light allows you to use a wider aperture without compromising shutter speed.
In Summary: To achieve a blurred background, prioritize a wide aperture (low f-number), a longer focal length lens, get close to your subject, and position your subject further away from the background. Experiment with these settings to find the perfect combination for your desired level of blur. Remember to focus accurately on your subject!