Photo Effects: Blurred Beauty

Although blur can sometimes be the undesired effect of an unsteady hand, it can also be a means of adding a concept to an image. Just the right blur can convey an emotion or concept that just can’t be shown any other way. Below are a few examples:

In this image, the slight blur adds a feeling of panic, confusion and fear. You get a definite sense that this woman is in danger.

(c) Imageshop. Image #42-15356780

The blur in this image serves many purposes. First of all, it draws your attention to the three people on the right. It also gives the illusion of hectic city life with people rushing about and a train speeding by in the background. The contrast between the stillness and the blur make for a very interesting image with many possible conceptual uses.

(c) Zefa RF. Image #42-18138591


Showing speed is one of the easiest and most effective ways to use blur. While in reality, this horse was probably doing no better than 30 MPH, but the blur effect gives the illusion that he is blazing across the track at a million miles an hour. You can’t help but think speed.

(c) Tetra. Image #TI0300695

Another thing blur can be used for is to add an element of mystery. Without blur, this image is very straightforward. It’s just a businessman with a briefcase walking down a hotel hallway. But the blur effect adds much more. It gives you the feeling that this man is off to something potentially shady or is involved in some mysterious plot. You start to wonder what is in his briefcase. A whole mystery novel begins to unfold in your head.

(c) Corbis RF. Image #CB100517