Usually, when photographing living objects, many photographers use a 100mm macro lens. Usually this lens is accompanied by an aperture of f/7.1 - 16 to capture living creatures clearly. There are several techniques you can use to get bokeh results in the foreground of your photo.
EOS 5D Mark III/ EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM/ FL: 100mm/ Manual exposure (f/5, 1/100 sec.)/ ISO 100/ WB: 4,600K
Source : https://snapshot.canon-asia.com/
1. Use a wide aperture
By using a 100mm macro lens, you can use an aperture of f/5 and look for a well-lit location. Focus on the back so that the subject in the front becomes bokeh. You can also use a flash to help illuminate the area around you.
EOS 5D Mark III/ FL: 100mm/ Manual exposure (f/4, 1/10 sec.)/ ISO 100
EOS 5D Mark III/ FL: 100mm/ Manual exposure (f/5, 1/10 sec.)/ ISO 100
2. Aim at the same height as the coral
The focus distance to the coral is approximately 80cm. Try to keep your position parallel, at the same eye level as the coral. Try to get as close as possible to the subject of your photo.