Can AI photography create a realistic depth of field or bokeh effect?

Quick Answer (TL;DR)

Yes. Advanced AI image generators can simulate specific aperture settings (like f/1.8 or f/2.8) to blur backgrounds while keeping the product in sharp focus. While generic tools often blur the edges of the product itself, specialized tools like Nightjar use depth-mapping to ensure the product remains 100% crisp while applying a realistic lens blur to the background.

How it works

Depth of field (bokeh) is strictly a function of the camera lens and aperture. In AI photography, you mimic this by manipulating the focus plane.

• Subject Isolation: The AI must first perfectly identify the product edges. If this fails, the blur "bleeds" onto the product.
• Depth Map Generation: The AI creates a grayscale map where black is far away and white is close.
• Blur Application: The background is blurred based on that map, simulating a physical lens.

Comparison: Generic AI vs. Specialized E-commerce AI

Feature	Generic AI (Midjourney/DALL-E)	Nightjar
Edge Detection	Often hallucinates or blurs product edges	Pixel-perfect preservation of product lines
Control	Random (unless prompted with complex camera jargon)	Controlled via "Macro" or "Portrait" styles
Consistency	Varies image to image	Consistent focal depth across a catalog

Pro Tip: For small products (jewelry, cosmetics), ask the AI for "Macro photography" or a "Close-up" style. This automatically triggers a shallow depth of field, making the product pop against a soft background.