How do i 'Blur' the background using a PnS or Hphone?

This was taken using my compact PnS (Panasonic Lumix)

A friend of mine asked was interested in getting a new compact, and asked me which camera to recommend.

I told her i did not know what are the cameras in the market now,

hence the next question -

"What are you looking for in your camera?"

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"I want to have that blur background effect."or something along that line

She appears to be misled that semi-pro cameras or DSLR can make such effects.

I will show you how to 'blur' your background even with a lousy PnS.

I will be using my Nokia C6 and Panasonic Lumix (bought in 2006) to illustrate.

The main idea is the depth of focus.

you can read more here.

The following shots are taken under the Macro mode setting(the one with the flower logo) which

can be found in almost every camera and phones.

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The Nokia C6.

As you can see, even a camera phone can make such effect.

Granted this phone has a 5megapixel capability but its not the megapixel that

is creating this 'blurred effect'

Simply tune to Macro Mode,

focus closely (as in near) on the subject,

Autofocus...

and there you have it.
Simple.

Now, my Old Panasonic Lumix.

Typical Point-And-Shoot.

Same logic here. You may have noticed that the Lumix appears to create this effect more

significantly. This has got to do with its slightly larger sensor. Read the post attached above to learn more!

p.s: Nowadays cameras (PnS and Camera phone) have ISO settings.

Tune it to the lowest (provided u have sufficient lighting).

This will reduce the noise of your photo. (pixelation and stuff)

Also, play ard with ur exposure (the +/- logo) if the image u see in ur liveview is too dark/bright.

Hope this helps!

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On a side note, i was exploring the pictures i took in the Lumix,

and saw this picture i took at one of the restaurant in KL.

Like the feeling of the picture =D

Taken with the Lumix FX01