Lights Bokeh - McElfish Photography

Audi Commercial

Bokeh

Comes from the Japanese word for BLUR
Light that is out of focus turns into balls of light
Bokeh is achieved by using a Low Aperture

Step 1

Spread the lights evenly across the background you plan to use.

Step 2

Set your camera’s aperture to the Lowest setting f/stop
Change your focus setting on the camera LENS from automatic focus (A) to Manuel Focus (M).
- This is located on the side of your camera lens

Step 3

Turn the focus of the lens to make the lights look OUT of Focus
- This will produce the round circles of lights

Assignment

Photo 1. Bokeh Circles

You will be taking a photograph of just the lights alone.
Turn the focus ring until the lights become balls of light
Take your photo.
You may have to move around to get the best image.
Edit in Camera Raw

Photo 2: Object with Bokeh behind it

Set your camera to Maual Focus (MF)
Set your aperture to the lowest f-stop
- Set up your subject at least four to five feet away from the lights
  - Arrange the lights so that the bokeh appears to be coming out of the object
    - Zoom in VERY close to your subject
      - Focus on the object. Lights should be out of focus

Not Done Correctly

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Photo 2. Bokeh Shape

Pick the shape from the collection
Place it tightly against the lens
Set your camera to the above photo settings
Arrange the lights to your liking
Take your photo.
You may have to move around to get the best image.
Edit in Photoshop with Curves, levels, or color balance

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Extra Credit Bokeh Assignment

Bokeh in front of a person

Hang the lights in front of the camera

Focus on the person and blur the lights out