How to Blur Image Background in Windows 11 Photo App

Prerequisites

• Windows 11 operating system (Version 22H2 or higher).
• Microsoft Photos App version 2023.11090.13001.0 or newer.
• Ensure your app is updated via the Microsoft Store.
• An image file (JPG, PNG, or TIFF).

Why blur your background?

Blurring the background of your photos in Windows 11 makes your main subject pop and look more professional, especially if the background is messy.

What happens when done?

The Windows 11 Photo app applies a soft, blurry background to your photo, keeping the main subject sharp. This effect creates a high-quality look that draws the viewer’s eye directly to the person or object you want to highlight.

How to blur your background in the Photos App

1. Open the Photos app on your computer.
2. Select the image you want to edit from your library or OneDrive folder.
3. Click the Edit image button at the top or press Ctrl+E on your keyboard.

4. Click the Background blur button in the toolbar. The app uses AI-powered tools to automatically detect the background for you.

5. Use the Blur Intensity slider to change how blurry the background looks. You can also use the Brush Tool to manually fix specific areas if the automatic detection missed a spot.

6. Once you are happy with the look, click the Apply button to save your changes.

Blur image background Windows 11 features using the built-in Photos app to instantly make the subject of a photo stand out. Open your picture in the Photos app, click the edit button, and choose the background blur tool. Windows automatically detects the background and lets you adjust the blur level with a simple slider.

How to blur your webcam background during video calls

Blur webcam background Windows 11 settings during video calls to hide your room and keep your private space hidden from others. Open your video meeting app like Microsoft Teams before joining a call, look at the video settings or background effects menu, and pick the blur option to soften everything behind you.

1. Open your video conferencing app (e.g., Microsoft Teams).
2. Before joining a meeting, look for the Background effects or Video settings menu.
3. Select Blur from the available options.
4. This uses your computer's processing power to mask your background in real-time.

Troubleshooting and Requirements

Fix missing background blur features in Windows 11 by updating both your operating system and the Photos app through the Microsoft Store. If the blur tool still does not appear after updating, your computer might not have the hardware needed to run this AI feature.

• Update the App: Open the Microsoft Store and check for updates for the Photos app.
• Check Windows Version: Ensure you are on the latest Windows 11 build.
• Hardware Limits: The AI feature requires a modern processor. If your PC is older, the feature may not appear.

Turn any standard photo into a professional-looking image using the Background blur feature in the Windows 11 Photos app. Adjusting the intensity and using the brush tool allows you to remove distractions and make your subject stand out. For more tips on managing your files, see our guide on organizing your C:\Users\Public folders effectively.

Summary