Adding Depth to Photos with a Blurred Foreground

A simple way to add depth to photos is to use a combination of narrow depth-of-field and foreground objects. The resulting blurred foreground draws increased attention onto the subject of the photo, creating a more appealing image.

Today's capture of Michelle rock climbing is a use of this technique. I shot this with my lens wide open at f/4 (at 105mm) to create the narrowest possible focus point. I then framed Michelle between the blurred foreground and distant background. The resulting natural frame draws the viewer's focus onto Michelle's face.

If I had shot the same photo at a smaller aperture, the foreground rocks would be more in focus. These rocks would then become a distraction and hurt, rather than help, the composition.

Canon 5D, Canon 24-105 f/4L lens - 1/200 second, f/4, ISO 250