Help or suggestions for fixing this picture?

[HKGuns]

I created a layer and applied gaussian blur then erased the top layer to reveal the clear image of her face. The issue is the halo that gets left behind when I merge the layers.

See the picture below. How do I make this a better transition? Or, is there a better way to blur the background in PP?

PS- I don't use photo-shop. I have Corel Photo X2 and photo-brush. Any help or advice is appreciated. I really like the light in this picture.

http://hkguns.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p548419643-4.jpg

First time asking for help....Didn't think about posting the original (Thanks DDCSD). See below for the original jpg. (Shot in RAW and processed in Capture One 4 Pro)

http://hkguns.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p443571930-4.jpg

[DDCSD]

You may want to post the original.

[Damo77]

Have a read of this thread (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=597821) - it refers to Photoshop, but the principles should be applicable in other programs.

[poloman]

You could try using a radial gradient to control your gaussian blur. Don't start the gradient in the center.

[bohdank]

Jut my opinion..... on the PP'd image you posted, I think you overdid the blur to a point where the head looks unnatural in respect to the body.

[Sorarse]

I concur with bohdank. Because the body is closer to the face than the background is, to maintain a sense of a realistic shallow DOF, the blur on the body shouldn't be as pronounced as it is for the background.

At the moment it has quite an unnatural feel to it.

[HKGuns]

Yes, I see what you mean and of course I agree.

[Zazoh]

I know you don't want to hear this but, the effect you want could have been achieved in camera. The original shot is great though, really love the light, the texture of the jammies, and her expression. Why don't you just tone down the door knob, which is distracting, and be done with it ;-)

[DDCSD]

I know you don't want to hear this but, the effect you want could have been achieved in camera. The original shot is great though, really love the light, the texture of the jammies, and her expression. Why don't you just tone down the door knob, which is distracting, and be done with it ;-)

I agree. It is an adorable shot to begin with. Unfortunate background, but sometimes we just have to live with imperfections like that. Moments don't always happen where we want them to (as photographers). :lol: