…that is the question! And then you ask, what is this "bokeh?"
Bokeh is the name for the effect that denotes the appearance of an out-of-focus area in a photograph, produced by using a shallow depth-of-field.
It's a Japanese-derived word, and I quite like saying it. More than the love I have for saying it, I love using bokeh in my photography.
Recently I used this image for Wordless Wednesday on my blog:
I could have used this one, though:
Both shots are great, in my opinion. Both capture the exquisite autumn colors in the trees and in the pumpkins, gourds, and Indian corn. But they are worlds apart when it comes to ambiance and aesthetic qualities.
Which one do you like better? Why?
I'm curious to hear what you have to say about Bokeh Effect. I'm also curious to see some of your Bokeh Effect images.
Leave your link in the comments and I'll pop on over and we'll dish the bokeh.
[Mishelle is the author of Secret Agent Mama and Mishelle Lane Photography. Along with her husband, four children, whom she home schools, she resides northeast Metro Atlanta.]
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I was actually having a conversation about your photography last night. I said Mish's photos always have a fell of romance to them.. and I believe it is your Bokeh that produces that.. so you keep on Bokeh"ing".. because it really defines your style.. love it.
I am a HUGE fan of bokeh. Thus, I prefer your shallow depth of field image (although I do like both!). I think the reason I like intense bokeh is because our eyes cannot physically achieve such a shallow depth of field normally…so when the camera does it, it's like we are seeing something totally unique!
I have a "bokelicious" set over at Flickr if you care to check it out.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sarahhallphotography/sets/72157603999709611/
Uh, yep. I second Kim's statement!
Oh Kim, that comment made my heart swell.. And, Colleen!! Thanks so much.. Now go forth and bokeh!
I've been taking a photography class and we learned this new term. I love saying it as well! And, I think it makes a picture look professional.
Your pictures are great.
Bokeh bokeh bokeh!
I get Bokeh a pretty good bit. Generally by complete accident, but I allllways love the result.
I didn't even know I was lacking words until Kim said them for me.
You inspire my photographing eyes to see a bit differently. When do you and I get to talk color aesthetic??? (from the girl who lived in b&w for so long that she thought it was reality.)
I definitely am loving the Bokeh version of that photo
I'm a big bokeh fan. It really made the focus of your photo (the pumpkin set up) pop and really showcased them well! In the non-bokeh photo, the focus (pumpkins) just sort of blended in. Give me bokeh anyday 
And your photography is amazing by the way, I love when you update your blog with photos 
http://www.mandimorganphotography.blogspot.com
I LOVE the Bokeh shots, but I cheat and do it on Picnik.
Thanks for all your comments. Sarah, I love you Flickr set.
& Mandi, best wishes to you and your endeavor!
How about telling us how you did that…
Bokeh… I LOVE learning new terms!!! Thanks for that.