AI Image Editing · · 3 min read

Bokeh Background: Add Bokeh Effect to Photos

Add bokeh effect and bokeh backgrounds to photos online for free. Learn how to create full bokeh effects, blur backgrounds, and bokeh portraits with HD bokeh using BlurMe AI.

Image with bokeh background blurred by BlurMe
Learn how to create full bokeh effects to add bokeh backgrounds to your photos and portraits.

A bokeh background can instantly transform a flat image into something artistic, emotional, and eye-catching. Whether you’re editing a selfie, a product shot, or a portrait, adding bokeh can create a beautiful visual separation between the subject and the background.

Here is how you can create a bokeh background by adding a bokeh effect to your photos online in seconds.

What is a Bokeh Background?

“Bokeh” refers to the aesthetic quality of the blur in out-of-focus parts of a photo. It’s often seen as soft, circular light spots that appear behind a sharply focused subject. You might know it from bokeh portrait styles or professional bokeh photos used in high-end photography and social media.

There are different types of bokeh effects:

Add Bokeh Effect to Photos Easily Online

With online tools like BlurMe Face Blur, adding a bokeh background is no longer limited to DSLR cameras or complex editing software. Here’s how you can do it in a few clicks:

How to Add Bokeh Background Online

  1. Upload your photo to BlurMe’s Blur Photo Studio.
Photos being uploaded to BlurMe for bokeh blur effect
  1. Select “Full Screen Blur” to select the bokeh backdrop.
photo with fullscreen blur to begin adding bokeh effect
  1. Choose what you want to be unblurred in the photo; you can unblur faces, bodies, cars and even bokeh blur part of an image.
bokeh effect settings panel on BlurMe interface
  1. Adjust intensity and radius to match your photo’s mood.
adjusting the settings of the photo's bokeh blur on BlurMe website

  1. Download your new image with the bokeh background applied.
Photo with added bokeh blur effect ready to be downloaded

This is perfect for social posts, profile pictures, or digital posters. You can even blur the background behind you using BlurMe’s advanced AI detection to highlight your subject even more naturally.

How to Stylize Your Bokeh Blur

Standard blur photo tools only soften the background. Bokeh goes further by adding mood and atmosphere. Want to go from a plain photo to a stunning one? Try pairing bokeh effects with a motion blur effect for a cinematic vibe.

Not sure where to begin? Explore these use cases:

If you’re working with plain backgrounds, you can also change the background of a photo before applying the bokeh for even more control over your composition.

Bokeh Backgrounds for Video

Bokeh isn't just for photos — video bokeh backgrounds are trending on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. These add elegance to vlogs, talking head videos, or product demos. With tools like BlurMe, you can apply blur background effects to your video automatically, then enhance it further with digital bokeh overlays.

Get Inspired: Best Uses of Bokeh

Looking for inspiration? Try:

If your photo lacks depth, a motion blur effect can also add movement to the background, enhancing the overall feel.For more ways to enhance your photos, check out Ganti Background to easily swap backgrounds and blur photos with just a few clicks.

Final Thoughts

Bokeh isn’t just an effect — it’s a visual signature. With online editors like BlurMe, you don’t need expensive gear to make it happen. Whether you're a content creator, photographer, or just want a cooler selfie, adding a bokeh background brings instant polish and focus.

Ready to try it? Head to Blur Background or Blur Photo to create your first bokeh masterpiece.

Sign up now to BlurMe Blur Face app and start adding bokeh effect to your photos.

Read next

Ready to try it out?

Try it out with your own video or photo.
Free yourself from the risks of ignoring others' privacy.

photo_studio_preview