I have to admit right away that my idea for the subject for these experimental shots is not unique. I got the inspiration from a very similar photo I stumbled across online while reading about Bokeh masks. I’d love to reference the original photo but I was viewing it on my iPhone and never ended up bookmarking it or saving it otherwise.
There are many tutorials for DIY Bokeh masks (aka Aperture masks) as well as some kits available but I decided to wing it and dove into the cutting and crafting. I chose a heart shape to start with in part because of the inspirational photo and also in part because my kids just happen to have some heart shaped stickers around that made a great template.