How to Beautifully Capture Lens Flare: Shooting and Editing Techniques | Knowledge #62
Cover image by Rui
Lens flare occurs when sunlight or a strong light source hits the camera lens directly, adding a unique atmosphere to photos. Originally considered a lens defect, it is now embraced as an emotional expression method, frequently used in portrait and landscape photography.
This article introduces shooting points, control techniques, and editing tips for lens flare.
Three Key Points for Shooting
To capture beautiful lens flare, focus on three key points: timing, lens, and angle.
Shoot at the Best Timing
The best time to effectively capture lens flare is during sunrise or sunset. Known as the golden hour, this time provides soft light, ideal for creating natural flares. Directly including the sun in the lens can produce a magical flare.
Utilize Old Lenses
Modern lenses often have anti-reflective coatings, making flares less likely. Using old lenses is recommended to achieve stronger flare effects. Removing the lens hood can also help generate flares.
Experiment with Different Angles
Flares change with the angle of light, so try shooting from various angles. By making slight adjustments during shooting, you can find the optimal flare. Don't be afraid to experiment and challenge yourself.
Controlling Lens Flare
By focusing on three key points and adjusting the aperture and lens focal length, you can capture more beautiful lens flares.
Adjust the Aperture
The shape of the flare changes with the aperture setting. Opening the aperture wide allows light to diffuse, creating a soft flare. Conversely, closing the aperture results in a sharp starburst flare. Balancing the sharpness of the subject and the flare is important.
Utilize Focal Length
Using a zoom lens can make flare effects more pronounced due to increased reflections within the lens. On the other hand, wide-angle lenses capture light sources smaller, resulting in different flare effects. Choose lenses according to the scene.
Editing Techniques for Lens Flare
Adobe provides basic editing techniques for lens flare using Photoshop and Lightroom.
Add Flare in Photoshop
- Open the photo in Photoshop and create a new layer.
- Fill the layer with 50% gray and set the blend mode to overlay.
- Select Filter > Render > Lens Flare and choose the flare type you want to emulate.
- Decide the placement and click OK.
Adjust in Lightroom
In Lightroom, you can fine-tune the flare effect by adjusting exposure and contrast. This allows you to maximize the flare effect while balancing the overall photo.
Master lens flare to add originality and creativity to your photos. Enjoy experimenting and find your unique expression!
