i really need some good help here

[canon510]

hey guys. im getting the hang on this digital stuff but i really need some help/advice/tips etc. i just cant get a hang of taking a picture and having the main subject clear and the background blurry. i know i have to change the appature shutter etc but i just cant get it. sorry if this is a common question but its ticking me off!! can someone please explain this whole process to me please?? thanks

[PhotosGuy]

See if this helps.
http://www.camerasinteractive.com/index.php
(And tell us what cam & lens you're using) ;-)

[canon510]

im using a canon powershot a510.

[CyberPet]

Now I don't know the build of the powershot a510, but the best chance to get some short DOF (depth of field) you need to use the camera as its full zoom (longest focal range) and use a big aperture (low f-number).

But compact cameras all seem to have problems getting very short DOF's, so it might not work out well.... but it's worth a try! The wish for short DOF's was one of my reasons to jump on the DSLR range of cameras, but also of course to be able to put on any lens I want and what I'm in the mood for. :D