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The typical approach to flower photography is to use a long lens or macro lens and blur out the backdrop with a shallow depth of field, so that the focus is on the subject. But why not take a different approach to background blur?
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In this project, the aim is to blur the backdrop with motion. To achieve this there are two key factors. First, we need to get set up for a long exposure – so all the usual long-exposure tricks apply like use of a tripod and neutral density filter. Secondly, we need to work out a way to keep some parts of the scene still while the others are in motion. This is where our secret weapon comes in – a leaf blower.
We can use the leaf blower to direct a gust of wind in the places where the scene needs it, creating movement in the plants and flowers that – coupled with our long exposure – results in beautiful blur. Alongside this, to keep a single bloom perfectly sharp we can fashion a clamp to secure it in place. This way, we get a lovely combination of blurry and sharp detail. It’s a fun technique to try as you never know quite how the blurred areas will turn out. What’s more, because the camera is locked on a tripod we can shoot a sequence then combine the best parts from each later on. Give it a go for beautifully blurred blooms...
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