How to blur background?

[-m i n g]

Sry again if i'm posting under the wrong topic...

Can anyone tell me how to blur my background more so that my subject will be the main focus? Can someone teach me how to do that with gaussian blur? That'll be great.. cz I wanna get that 'bokeh' effect more... am I using that word correctly? haha.. anyways pls help.. this is my way of doing it (feeling=very unprofessional)

1. Ctrl+J background
2. Gaussian blur Layer 1
3. Add layer mask to Layer 1
4. Use Gradient tool to create clear parts on the image
5. Use Brush tool (white colour) and slowly blur background

Very long process.. help*

[AlexMonro]

You might find it easier to make the background slightly out of focus when you take the shot.

Use maximum aperture to reduce depth of field. If possible, stand further back from the subject and zoom in.

For a detailed tutorial on depth of field, look here:

http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/depth-of-field.htm

[-m i n g]

haha yea.. but sometimes when i'm taking landscape.. with a person standing there.. I like to play around and try to get the person focused.. also helps my mom since she uses my digicam.. Can you tell me how I could do that in Photoshop cs2?