Bokeh 2017: A Deep Dive Into The Trend That Captured Hearts

williamstyron

13 Apr, 2025

Back in 2017, the bokeh trend took the photography world by storm, and it’s still making waves today. Everyone from amateur photographers to seasoned pros was chasing that magical bokeh effect. You know, those dreamy, blurry backgrounds with those soft, glowing circles of light that make your photos look straight out of a movie? Yeah, that’s what we’re talking about. But what exactly is bokeh, and why did it become such a big deal in 2017?

Bokeh isn’t just about taking blurry pictures; it’s an art form. It’s all about creating that stunning contrast between sharp subjects and soft, dreamy backgrounds. In 2017, with the rise of smartphone cameras and social media platforms like Instagram, everyone wanted to up their photography game. And bokeh was the secret ingredient to making photos pop. Whether you were shooting portraits, landscapes, or even food, bokeh added that extra touch of magic.

But let’s not forget, bokeh isn’t just a trend; it’s a timeless technique that photographers have been using for decades. The difference is that in 2017, technology made it more accessible than ever before. So, if you’ve ever wondered how to get that bokeh effect or why it became so popular, you’re in the right place. We’re about to break it all down for you.

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What Exactly is Bokeh?

Bokeh is one of those terms that gets thrown around a lot, but what does it really mean? Simply put, bokeh refers to the aesthetic quality of the blur produced in the out-of-focus parts of an image. It’s not just about making things blurry; it’s about creating a visually pleasing blur that enhances the overall composition of a photo. Think of it like a painter using different brush strokes to create texture and depth. In photography, bokeh does the same thing, but with light and focus.

Here’s the thing: bokeh isn’t just about the background; it’s about how the light interacts with the lens. When you use a wide aperture, like f/1.8 or f/2.8, you create a shallow depth of field. This means that only a small part of the image is in focus, while the rest becomes blurred. And that’s where the magic happens. Those blurry highlights, like streetlights or reflections, turn into soft, circular shapes that make your photos look absolutely stunning.

Why Did Bokeh Become So Popular in 2017?

In 2017, the world of photography was changing rapidly. Smartphones were becoming more advanced, and social media platforms were evolving to prioritize visually appealing content. People were no longer satisfied with just taking regular photos; they wanted their pictures to stand out. And bokeh was the perfect way to do that.

Here are a few reasons why bokeh became so popular:

Smartphone Cameras: In 2017, smartphone manufacturers started focusing more on camera quality. Features like dual lenses and portrait mode made it easier for everyday users to achieve that bokeh effect without needing a DSLR.
Social Media Influence: Platforms like Instagram and Snapchat were all about sharing visually stunning content. Bokeh photos were eye-catching and perfect for capturing attention in a crowded feed.
Accessible Tutorials: With the rise of YouTube and blogs, anyone could learn how to create bokeh effects. Tutorials were everywhere, making it easier for beginners to experiment with their photography skills.

Bokeh 2017: The Rise of Smartphone Photography

Let’s talk about smartphones for a minute. Back in 2017, smartphones were starting to rival professional cameras in terms of image quality. Brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google were pushing the boundaries of mobile photography. One of the biggest innovations was the introduction of dual-lens cameras and software that mimicked the bokeh effect.

Take Apple’s iPhone 7 Plus, for example. It was one of the first smartphones to feature a dual-lens camera with a portrait mode that created a simulated bokeh effect. Suddenly, anyone with an iPhone could take professional-looking portraits with that dreamy background blur. And it wasn’t just Apple; Samsung’s Galaxy S8 and Google’s Pixel 2 also offered similar features.

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How Smartphones Changed the Game

Smartphones didn’t just make bokeh more accessible; they democratized photography. No longer did you need expensive equipment or advanced skills to create stunning images. With just a few taps on your phone, you could achieve that bokeh effect and share it with the world. Here’s how smartphones changed the game:

Accessibility: Anyone could take professional-looking photos without needing a DSLR or extensive training.
Convenience: Smartphones are always with you, making it easy to capture spontaneous moments with bokeh.
Community: Social media platforms allowed photographers to share their work and get feedback from a global audience.

Bokeh 2017: The Role of Social Media

Social media played a huge role in popularizing bokeh in 2017. Platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and even Facebook were all about sharing visually appealing content. Bokeh photos stood out in crowded feeds because they were visually striking and emotionally engaging. People loved the way bokeh added depth and emotion to their photos, whether they were shooting portraits, landscapes, or even food.

Instagram, in particular, became a hub for bokeh enthusiasts. Users were constantly sharing their best bokeh shots and tagging them with hashtags like #bokeh, #bokehphotography, and #bokehmagic. This created a community of photographers who were passionate about mastering the art of bokeh.

Hashtags and Trends

Hashtags were a big part of the bokeh trend in 2017. They helped photographers connect with each other and discover new techniques. Here are some of the most popular hashtags from that time:

#bokeh
#bokehphotography
#bokehmagic
#bokehlovers
#bokehlife

These hashtags not only helped photographers find inspiration but also created a sense of community. People were sharing tips, tricks, and tutorials, making it easier for everyone to improve their skills.

Bokeh 2017: The Science Behind the Blur

Now that we’ve talked about the popularity of bokeh, let’s dive into the science behind it. Bokeh is all about how light interacts with the lens. When you use a wide aperture, you create a shallow depth of field, which means only a small part of the image is in focus. The rest becomes blurred, and that’s where the bokeh effect comes in.

The shape and quality of the bokeh depend on several factors, including the lens, the aperture, and the distance between the subject and the background. For example, lenses with more aperture blades tend to produce smoother, rounder bokeh. And the further away the background is from the subject, the more pronounced the bokeh effect will be.

Understanding Aperture

Aperture is one of the most important factors in creating bokeh. It refers to the size of the opening in the lens that allows light to pass through. A wider aperture (lower f-stop number) creates a shallower depth of field, which is perfect for bokeh. Here’s a quick breakdown:

f/1.8: Ideal for creating strong bokeh effects.
f/2.8: Great for portraits with a nice bokeh background.
f/4: Still produces some bokeh, but not as pronounced.

Understanding aperture is key to mastering bokeh. It’s all about finding the right balance between sharpness and blur to create a visually pleasing image.

Bokeh 2017: Tips and Tricks for Creating Stunning Photos

Now that you know what bokeh is and why it became so popular in 2017, let’s talk about how you can create stunning bokeh photos. Whether you’re using a DSLR or a smartphone, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you get that perfect bokeh effect.

Here are some of the best tips:

Use a Wide Aperture: As we mentioned earlier, a wide aperture creates a shallow depth of field, which is perfect for bokeh.
Choose the Right Lens: If you’re using a DSLR, invest in a lens with a wide aperture and good bokeh quality.
Experiment with Distance: The further away the background is from the subject, the more pronounced the bokeh effect will be.
Play with Lighting:

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While bokeh is relatively easy to achieve, there are a few common mistakes that beginners often make. Here are a few to watch out for:

Overdoing It: Too much bokeh can make your photos look messy. It’s all about finding the right balance.
Ignoring Composition: Bokeh is great, but it shouldn’t overshadow the main subject of your photo. Make sure your composition is strong.
Not Using the Right Equipment: If you’re using a smartphone, make sure it has a good camera and software that supports bokeh effects.

Bokeh 2017: The Impact on Photography

The bokeh trend of 2017 had a lasting impact on the world of photography. It made people more aware of the importance of composition, lighting, and depth of field. It also encouraged more people to experiment with photography and try new techniques. Whether you were a professional photographer or just someone who loved taking pictures, bokeh added a new dimension to your work.

But the impact didn’t stop there. The popularity of bokeh also influenced the development of new technology. Camera manufacturers started focusing more on features that supported bokeh effects, and software developers created apps that made it easier for everyone to achieve that dreamy blur.

Looking to the Future

As we look back on 2017, it’s clear that bokeh was more than just a trend; it was a turning point in the world of photography. It made photography more accessible and encouraged people to think creatively about how they captured moments. And while trends may come and go, the love for bokeh continues to grow.

Conclusion: Embrace the Bokeh

In conclusion, bokeh 2017 was a game-changer for photography. It made people more aware of the power of composition, lighting, and depth of field. It also made photography more accessible, thanks to advancements in smartphone technology and social media platforms. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just someone who loves taking pictures, bokeh adds a new dimension to your work.

So, if you haven’t already, give bokeh a try. Experiment with different lenses, apertures, and lighting conditions to find what works best for you. And don’t be afraid to share your creations with the world. Who knows? You might just inspire someone else to embrace the bokeh and take their photography to the next level.

And remember, the world of photography is always evolving. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and most importantly, keep shooting. Because every moment is worth capturing, especially when it’s framed in bokeh.