This flower image is an oldie but a goodie. I created it over 10 years ago at Chanticleer Gardens, in Pennsylvania during a workshop that I was conducting there. Wow, does time fly.

Adding an intentional blur to a subject or scene can produce an impressionistic or an artistic look that you cannot get from a static shot. It is also a great way to create a unique abstract. There is a fine line between a blurred image that is pleasing to the eye and a blurry image that simply does not work.

This Iris image has been featured in several of my eBooks. I like the image and the technique so much that I will also be including it in my latest eBook The Art of Abstracts due out soon. My defocusing technique is one of my favorite ways to create a soft pleasing abstract image.

I begin by filling the frame with the flower and move in very close using a macro lens. You can use a tripod if needed. I have my focus set to manual so that I don’t have to worry about my lens hunting for focus with auto-focus. This is not to be confused with Manual Mode.

Once I have decided on my composition, I acquire sharp focus then I turn my focusing ring ever-so-slightly to defocus it for a soft dreamy look. It is important to retain some of the details and not defocus too much. It takes just a little bit of practice. Actually, all pleasingly blurred images take a bit of practice and creating a bunch of stinkers just comes with the territory. It is most important to not give up as you will most likely create hundreds for that one special blur that you will make you smile.

For more creative blur techniques check out- A Guide to Creative Blurs it is my most recent blur guide. Available only through A Creative Adventure here.

I have many other eBooks available on my site…check them out.