AsiaPaul Loc: Vietnam

After posting a few pictures of people performing a traditional dance in Northeast China called Yang Ge, an Ugly Hedgehog member suggesting that I add a blur effect to some of the photos.

I enthusiastically agree with this suggestion but would like to ask if anyone would like to recommend what settings I should use. ISO 100, 200, 400, F18, 1/100, etc.

Thank you for your assistance in helping me become a better photographer.

CP

Danilo Loc: Las Vegas

I hope you don't think I'm following you around on UHH, Paul!
I would stick with an ISO around 100. An average exposure setting for a clear, sunny day, would be 1/100th sec. at f-16. Now here's the problem: to get a blurred effect you'll need to bump your shutter DOWN to, perhaps, 1/4sec. or 1/2sec. But to do so you'll need to reduce your aperture size to f-120 or smaller.
Now, it's your turn to speak, and you say: "But my camera will only go to f-22!"
So...you need a "neutral-density" filter, sunglasses for your camera! A good one to try would be ND-8. You'll need the correct diameter to fit on the front of your lens (maybe 52mm, or 58mm, or 67mm, or 72mm). The size you need may be printed somewhere on your lens. This will allow you to use slower shutter speeds and not wind up with overexposed photos.
Note: It will be harder to see through your viewfinder, so practice with the ND filter to get used to it.

Rolenz Loc: Tripping around Oz

I'm a newbie, but have an interest in the lower shutter speed options. Try taking a few photos at the slower setting, get used to how long the shutter is 'closed' Keeping an eye on what is happening at the same time. Not everyone likes this form, but others really love it. No guesses which side of the fence I am on. Have fun.

Leicaflex Loc: Cymru

To obtain the burred background effect, which in photography terms is called Boken, from the Japanese, meaning blurring, is dependant on your aperture and the focal length of your lens. What is in focus in front of the subject and what is blurred behind is called Depth of Field. If you are using a standard kit lens, (18-55mm)set the camera to Aperture Priority (Av). Set the Aperture to f5.6 and take the shot. Check the exposure to view the background. If you require more blur continue to open the aperture until you achieve the desired amount of blur.

Brucej67 Loc: Cary, NC

I like the photographs the way they are and wouldn't add blur to them unless you want to be artistic. You could post process them in Photoshop and add blur if that is your goal.