How to Use Blur Effect for Image Editing

Using the Blur Effect in Your Photo Edits

When to Use Blur Effect
The Blur effect is a great tool for giving your images a soft, unfocused look. You can apply it to your uploaded photos or those in our media library. Whether you're working in the Canva Image Editor or within a design, the Blur effect is at your fingertips.

How to Apply the Blur Effect
Here's how you can start using the Blur effect to enhance your images:

On a Mouse:

1. Hold the 'Ctrl' key and scroll with your mouse wheel to zoom in and out.
2. Use the middle mouse or the right button to click and drag, allowing you to move around the image.
3. Click the left mouse button to begin applying the blur.

On a Trackpad:

1. Pinch your fingers together to zoom in.
2. Use two fingers to drag and navigate around the image.
3. Press with one finger and drag it to apply the blur.

Applying Blur Effect to Chosen Areas
To blur specific sections of your image, use the blur brush:

1. Select the image you want to edit.
2. Choose 'Edit' from the toolbar.
3. Under 'Effects', pick 'Blur'.
4. For selective blurring, go to the 'Brush' tab where you can adjust settings like Spread, Brush Size, and Intensity.
5. For an all-over blur, use the 'Whole Image' tab and fine-tune the intensity with the slider.

Alternatively, you can apply the Blur effect directly to an image without opening it in a design:

1. From the homepage, go to 'Projects'.
2. Select 'Your Projects' or 'All Projects'.
3. Choose 'Images' and find the photo you want to edit.
4. Alternatively, upload your photograph in 'Projects' to enter the Canva Image Editor.
5. Under 'Effects', select 'Blur'.

Understanding Blur Brush Limitations
The Blur effect's brush has a known limitation, especially with the Magic Expand tool. At present, downloading the blurred image, reuploading, and then expanding seems to be a practical workaround until enhancements are made.

Feedback
If you discover that the guidance provided doesn't fully meet your needs or have other concerns, let us know how we can help improve your experience with the Blur tool. We're always open to feedback!