philip_pj wrote:
Here are a few images with similarly sized subjects as the linked images, showing how suitably drawn bokeh adds to the appeal of the subject, while adding greater visual interest to the image.
The first image essentially illustrates the problems that arise when, instead of focusing on composition and background, you project all your thoughts onto the rendering of your lens. This results in unsightly, intensely overpowering light spots that distract the viewer from the subject. Furthermore, the central placement of the main subject doesn't align with the head position. Even the best lens can't compensate for this.
In the second image, the centered placement works quite well, but unfortunately, the fact that the clearly visible background shows no drop in sharpness at all makes it difficult. This uniform blur across the entire image prevents the lines leading into the distance from fulfilling their purpose of creating depth. The sharp subject, and the blurred background, appear separate and as if glued together – exactly the opposite of what you described.
The third picture makes a very pleasant impression on me, although the mirror growing out of the shoulder and the sharp, black something in the lower right corner of the picture are disturbing.
Mar 08, 2026 at 12:38 PM
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