Normally, we want blurred background (shallow Depth of Field or DOF) in 2 occasions. First is when we take a macro shot. Another is portrait photography or when we want the subject to stand out.
Before we begin, we want to emphasize that although the PowerShot cameras offer excellent performance, they are still non-DSLR cameras. So, they might not be able to compare with cameras from the DSLR level in term of an ability to blur image background. However, by following the tips below, be ensured that you have use your PowerShot to its fullest potential
For a macro shot, you have to use the widest camera aperture. Note that a small F-number means a wide or big aperture. If your PowerShot has no option for aperture adjusting, don't worry, simply use the macro mode (usually marked by a flower symbol). Then, try to minimize a distance between the camera and the subject. The less distance, the more blurred background will be. Most of the time, you are able to get an image with blurred background as you expect.
The more challenge is the portrait photography or when you want to focus only the subject and blur the background. We suggest 4 tips to help you.
1. use the widest aperture (or the macro mode if you can't set the aperture value)
2. use the maximum zoom capacity
3. minimize a distance between the camera lens and the subject (minimize A)
4. maximize a distance between the subject and the background (maximiz B)
If you follow all tips but don't get enough blurred background, don't be so sad. At least, you utilize your PowerShot camera to its max potential.
See also
Aperture and Depth of Field
Aperture and F-number
More on Shooting Tips
