EnglishBrenda Loc: Kent, England

This is my first try at 'Bokeh' - I use that word with a little trepidation as I know there has been 'discussions' about it. I will declare my position on this as a novice. I use the term Bokeh to refer to the OOF part of a photo when that part is the subject of the photo as against the OOF part of a photo, caused deliberately by a shallow DOF, which is applied only to the negative space of the photo and not the subject. That said, I know my photo could be improved, e.g. I would like the foreground to be in focus which, I suppose, would need me to stand a little further back and lose some bubbles or raise the f number. Any suggestions or alterations welcome. Nikon D7000, 105mm, f5.6, ISO 100, time 2seconds.

First Bokeh attempt.

Mark L

Hi Trudy,
If I understand you correctly, you are using bokeh here as a design element in the photo, and referring to it in that sense. Technically (forgive me if you already knew this), bokeh is anywhere in a photo that is out of focus - the pine cones have bokeh. I think you did a marvelous job. A very fun photograph, I wouldn't change a thing. You've taken what could have been just a pretty picture, and by adding the bokeh bubbles coming out of the glass object made it into a thought-provoking statement. I think if the pinecones were more in focus it would get too busy. If I were doing this, I would shoot it at a range of f-stops, even wide open and see what happens. Also try different lenses. I have 5 different Nikkor 50mm lenses from different eras because each has it's own bokeh quality.

EnglishBrenda Loc: Kent, England

Thanks you for your helpful and kind comments MarkL. I will soon set up the lights again and have another go using your suggestions. I spent so much time working out the best way to go this first time I needed to stop to feed hubby and dog. Next time it will be quicker.

rpavich Loc: West Virginia

Lol....we won't attack!

Nice job on the photo.

You did pretty good for f/5.6 for sure.


Did you get this from a Gavin Hoey video? :)

EnglishBrenda Loc: Kent, England

Hi RPavich, Thanks for your nice comments. Yes I watched Gavin Hoey's video. His videos are very clear but it always seems more difficult than you expect when doing something for the first few times. I also watch those of Mike Brown, very down to earth and helpful.

rpavich Loc: West Virginia

You're welcome!

I also like Mike Browne too.

Mark L

You're quite welcome. Just remember, it's all about just playing. Some of my favorite photos came about from trying something that seemed like the exact wrong thing to do. Surprises can be so much fun. There are no mistakes, only learning experiences.

magnetoman Loc: Purbeck, Dorset, UK

I think you've done that really well. I'd prefer the clutter in the front removed completely, making the glass vase and the bokeh bubbles the focal point for the viewer.

EnglishBrenda Loc: Kent, England

Thank you magnetoman, I think I agree with you. I just have to be careful where the bubbles show through the glass as I want them to appear to be coming out of top of the glass. I will continue my efforts.

Today I have been practising long exposures on the sea for a smooth appearance but have not yet transferred them to the computer. I know the milky effect is not everyone's choice but I want to learn different techniques to improve my overall understanding and fluency. I am sure each aspect studied helps the others.