How to Blur Image in Canva

Canva offers easy-to-use blur effects for images. Here's how to blur images in Canva, including blurring backgrounds for professional portrait effects.

Blur image in Canva (step-by-step)

1. Open Canva and create a new design or open an existing one.
2. Upload your image: Click Uploads in the left sidebar, then Upload media, or drag and drop your image.
3. Click on the image to select it.
4. In the top toolbar, click Effects (or the magic wand icon).
5. Scroll down to find Blur effects or search for "blur" in the effects panel.
6. Select a blur effect (Background Blur, Blur, or Advanced Blur).
7. Adjust the blur intensity using the slider (0-100).
8. Click Apply to confirm the blur effect.
9. Download your image: Click Download and choose your format (PNG, JPG, or PDF).

Blur background while keeping subject sharp

To blur only the background in Canva:

1. Upload your image to Canva.
2. Select the image and click Effects.
3. Choose Background Blur or Portrait Blur effect.
4. Canva will automatically detect the subject and blur the background.
5. Adjust blur intensity with the slider.
6. Use the Refine option if available to improve subject detection.
7. Click Apply and download your image.

Note: Background blur features may require Canva Pro subscription.

Free alternative for better results

For better quality and free access, use our Blur Background tool:

1. Upload your photo to our Blur Background tool.
2. Select blur intensity (Light, Medium, Strong, or Max).
3. Download your image with a professionally blurred background.

This tool uses AI to automatically detect and blur only the background while keeping your subject sharp. Completely free with no subscription required.

Try it online (free)

• Blur Background - Blur background while keeping subject sharp
• Remove background from image
• Change image background
• Enhance image quality

Tips for blurring in Canva

• Use Background Blur for portrait photos to keep subjects sharp.
• Use Blur effect for overall image blur or artistic effects.
• Adjust blur intensity gradually - start with 30-50% and increase as needed.
• For best results, use high-resolution images (at least 1000px wide).
• Combine blur with other effects like brightness or contrast adjustments.
• Export in high quality (PNG for transparency, JPG for photos).

FAQ