The Only Blur You Really Need to Know
Gaussian Blur is the most useful blur in video editing. It blurs your layer with a smooth, natural-looking blur that mimics how cameras work. Use it to soften backgrounds, create depth of field, hide details, or transition between shots. One slider. That's it.
Settings used
- Blur Radius: 12
Add the effect from FX → Blur & Sharpen → Gaussian Blur. The blur radius controls how much blur is applied — higher numbers create more blur. Start at 5-10 for subtle softening, 15-25 for noticeable depth of field, 30+ for heavy artistic blur.
When to use it
Gaussian Blur is perfect for softening backgrounds to make subjects pop, creating depth of field effects, obscuring text or details you want to hide, smoothing skin in close-ups, or as a transition effect. It's the one blur you'll reach for 90% of the time.