Bewitch Your Photos with Lens Flare: Secrets to Light Magic

You've taken a picture. Perfect angles, impeccable timing. It lacks *something*. Consider adding some magic by introducing lens flare. Lens flare can turn even the dullest of frames into brilliant visual masterpieces. But, it's not just about slapping on a flare and calling it a day. There is an art to it. Read more now on add lens flare

When you were a child, do you remember experimenting with the magnifying glass and catching sunlight? Lens flares work on the same principle. It's essentially light scattering in your lens. It can transform the mundane into something spectacular! Before you jump into Photoshop wizardry, let's chew the fat on why and how to add this magical touch.


Lens flares are affected by lighting conditions. Picture this: an early morning shoot with the sun just peeking over the horizon. Perfect, right? The warm sunlight will give your flare a golden glow. Be careful, too much light may overwhelm your frame. Like adding chili to your dish, a little can enhance the flavors but too much can burn your tongue.


Let's get into the how-to. It's easier than negotiating with a toddler who's had too much sugar. First off, tools. Whether you're a Photoshop guru or a Lightroom enthusiast, options are plentiful.


In Photoshop:

1. Open your image. Step one, really.

2. You can do this by selecting Filter > Render and then Lens Flare. Bet you didn't think it'd be this easy.

3. Choose your flare. Different flares suit different moods. Play around!

4. Position your flare. Drag it, drop it, make it pop.


Lightroom is more difficult, but still not rocket science.

1. Import your photo. Duh.

2. Select the Develop mode. Here is where the magic happens.

3. Use the Radial Filter. Mimic a flare shape.

4. Adjust Highlights & Exposure. Give it a dreamy burned look.


What is the purpose of a lens flare in photography? This is not for the fainthearted, but it's absolutely worth it. Set your aperture wide (f2.8 or lower), and make light your buddy, not a foe. Remember a scene from an old gangster movie where the protagonist peeks around the corner? This is your picture - drama, suspense and a flash of brilliance.


Enough of the technical babble. Lens flares are personalities. They tell stories and evoke emotions. A sun-kissed beach photo screams serenity, while a cityscape at dusk, with lights just beginning to twinkle, whispers secrets of the urban jungle. Use flares to give your photos these narratives.


My first attempt at a camera lens flare was a total disaster. Picture this: a picnic in the park, family gathered, unabashed laughter... and a huge blinding blotch of light right smack in the middle. Lesson learned: moderation and placement are crucial. Now, I'm older, wiser, and my flares are more subtle whispers than loud proclamations!


Let's address the quirks. Flares overdone can have a negative effect. It's like putting sequins on everything - just stop. Restraint is key, even with lens flares. It's an enhancement, not a distraction. Keep the magic alive by using them sparingly.


It's not always about perfection. Sometimes the most eye-catching flares come from those unexpected moments. Play around, make mistakes, laugh at the ridiculously odd outcomes. Photography is part science, part art, part happy accidents.


Keep in mind that the power is in your hands. It's all about adding that zest, a dash of garnish that makes your photo unforgettable. So go on, make that sunlight dance. Add the sparkle, and let your images mesmerize viewers. Lens flare is more than a filter. It's the spark of your photographic imagination.