# Blur Sensitive Info

> Upload an image and draw blur rectangles to redact sensitive information before sharing.

**Category:** Media
**Keywords:** blur, redact, image, privacy, hide, sensitive, screenshot
**URL:** https://complete.tools/blur-image

## How it works

The tool applies a blurring algorithm, often Gaussian blur, which uses a convolution matrix to modify the image's pixel values. When a user selects a blur radius, the tool calculates the average color of surrounding pixels within that radius for each pixel in the image. The formula involves a weighted average where closer pixels have a greater influence on the outcome. The resulting pixel values are then updated to create the blurred effect. This process effectively smooths out sharp edges and details.

## Who should use this

Graphic designers creating artwork that requires softened backgrounds, photographers wishing to protect subjects' identities in images, web developers designing interfaces that require blurred elements for visual hierarchy, and social media managers needing to obscure sensitive information in posts.

## Worked examples

Example 1: A photographer wants to blur a section of an image to protect the identity of a subject. If the original pixel value at (100, 100) is (200, 150, 100) and the blur radius is set to 5 pixels, the tool calculates the average color of the surrounding pixels within that radius. Assuming the average color is (150, 100, 75), the new pixel value at (100, 100) becomes (150, 100, 75). 

Example 2: A graphic designer is creating a banner and wants to blur the background. If the background has a pixel value of (255, 255, 255) and the designer applies a Gaussian blur with a radius of 10 pixels, the tool averages the surrounding pixel values and produces a new background color of (230, 230, 230). This creates a softer background, allowing the foreground elements to stand out more clearly.

## Limitations

The tool has several limitations, including: 1) Precision limits, as excessive blurring may result in loss of significant image details, making it difficult to discern original content. 2) Edge cases where images with sharp contrasts may not blur uniformly, leading to artifacts. 3) Assumptions about image format; some formats may not support the desired blur effect, leading to unexpected results. 4) Large images may require more processing power and time, potentially resulting in performance issues or timeouts.

## FAQs

**Q:** What types of blur algorithms does the tool support?


**A:** The tool primarily supports Gaussian blur, but may also include options for box blur and motion blur, each with unique characteristics and applications.


**Q:** How does the blur radius affect the final image quality?


**A:** The blur radius determines the extent of the blurring effect; larger radii produce softer images by averaging more surrounding pixels, while smaller radii retain more detail.


**Q:** Can the tool handle transparent images?


**A:** Yes, the tool can process images with transparency, but the resulting blurred effect may vary, especially around the edges of transparent areas.


**Q:** Is there a maximum image size for processing?


**A:** Yes, the tool typically supports images up to 10MB in size; larger images may encounter processing limitations or performance issues.

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*Generated from [complete.tools/blur-image](https://complete.tools/blur-image)*