This was photographed using a 24-70mm lens at F4. By putting the focus on the light on the handrail, it creates a photograph that draws the viewer into the frame and toward the closed door.
Doors are used in stories and mythology to create mystery. They can protect those who live within; or maintain a secret; or seclude a sacred space. For me, this door looks like a dozen others in my childhood small town and by using the soft focus, it becomes any number of doors and holiday memories from my life.
Shallow depths of field (DOF) give the viewer a fuzzy glimpse at the subject forcing them to create the rest of the image in their own imaginations. It can bring romance to an otherwise average location.
Here the soft shallow DOF evokes the traditional Christmas feel of any home. For me, I can feel the crisp cold air and smell the warm cookies just coming out of the oven.
We can only guess what happy surprises await us behind this closed door.