photoshop blur help

[fadetoblack22]

To start, this is not my image. Its just an example.

What is the best way to give the background depth of field. I am thinking of using a guassian blur, but I'm not sure how to make the edge soft and not get the hair blurred. This is probably an age old question, but can anyone help me please?

http://bp3.blogger.com/_Jpf9JboYxds/R5h7E2yqiUI/AAAAAAAAAT0/QTJVDyBv7os/s1600-h/Model+1+(2).jpg

[Anke]

Can't see the image, but be aware that it is against Forum Rules to post an image that isn't yours, please post a link instead.

[manutd101]

To start, this is not my image. Its just an example.

What is the best way to give the background depth of field. I am thinking of using a guassian blur, but I'm not sure how to make the edge soft and not get the hair blurred. This is probably an age old question, but can anyone help me please?


The best way to do this is in the camera, using a lens with a large maximum aperture and a moderatly long focal length.

[D_CeLiRaToR]

make a general selection of the subject with whatever tool you use for selections (doesn't have to be perfect) then apply a quick mask and paint in whatever details your first selection didn't get with black. details like hair take a lot of patience. when the selection is perfect remove the quick mask and invert the selection. now apply the gaussian blur to the new selection and you're done.

[LORAC]

I used to create a selection round the required image then use the quick mask, applying the gradient black to white to imply the depth of field.

[Radtech1]

Take a look at this thread:

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=179950

[fadetoblack22]

Thanks, for the answers. I have edited a link in now.

I will try with the quick mask then and see what happens.

[PhotosGuy]

Quick Mask is a PITA to work with. Using a Layer Mask is really the best way for me.
Lotsa' links in - Post #9:
Airport runway shoot (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=117950)

There's a more complex method the video tutorial in post #8.
http://av.adobe.com/russellbrown/ExtractSM.mov