Issue: 01/2019
Author: Martin Schuster, Universität Köln
Blur in perception, photography, and art
In usual visual perception, blur is the exception, it needs some tricks to consciously experience it. However, painting, as well as photography, can take advantage of blur. It is used for various purposes, to achieve authenticity, to suggest speed, to focus the recipient’s gaze, to or to make the photograph appear more mystical. Thus blur is able to stress the emotional side of photographs and helps to create a contemporary style.
Keywords: Visual Perception, Blur, Vagueness, Emotions, Contemporary Art, Psychology