Blurring backgrounds with PSE7

[lvcrtrs]

Using: Photoshop Elements 7

Trying to: Blur backgrounds

Have tried:
Select subject, inverse selection, filter, blur or gaussin blur

Blur seems to have no control and makes everything pretty much one solid color. Gaussin has one control (pixels I believe). No experience here so I just tried different options.

Challenge:
The outline of my subject gets blurred. Taking everyone's advice on watching out for backgrounds in the photo I do try but sometimes they are there. Can anyone tell me a method to try to blur without affecting my subject?

 

[Big Mike]

How are you selecting your subject? How precise do you get?

Properly isolating your subject is key if you are doing any selective editing like this.

Also, are you putting the blur on a separate layer?
When you make your selection, convert it into a layer mask on a duplicate layer then apply the blur to the top layer while masking off the subject. This also allows you more freedom to go back in and tweak the edge of the mask/selection.

 

[KmH]

Does PSE7 have masking? I don't think PSE6 did.

Did you try feathering your selection using 'Refine Edge'.

If you haven't already, you might invest in the book:
The Photoshop Elements 7 Book for Digital Photographers
By: Scott Kelby

 

[lvcrtrs]

Mike and KmH, no I haven't. I'm still at the most basic level of this PP business. I will print out your suggestions and give it a try.
Thank you. Sherry