WHY YOU SHOULD USE OR AVOID LENS FLARE

Yesterday, a photographer friend of mine asked me what lens flare is all about, and it took me a bit of time to give my response because I knew little about lens flare. So after making my research about it, I decided to share it with you guys.

LENS FLARE is typically the bright light shining into the lens of a camera which is mostly called the light flare or lens glare that is scattered into the lens system after it touches the element of the lens. Lenses with larger elements are vulnerable to lens flare such as the zoom lenses. The flare is usually said to damage images, however, sometimes, it is used to enhance the quality of an image. A lot of photographers and cinematographers actually use it intentionally as a means to beautify their work although it can be avoided if you’re not a fan of flares.

If you’re wondering how to avoid/eliminate flare follow the helpful tips below:

• Fix a lens hood on the camera lens, by doing this, you are avoiding extra scattering light coming into your lens.
• Use prime lenses, avoid lenses that are vulnerable to flares.
• Avoid your camera from the light source/shoot with light source behind you.
• You can fix your shoot towards the golden hour.

Following these tips would help you eliminate lens flare but if you want lens flare in your footage or you don’t know how to use it to your advantage, here are some tips that will help you achieve the flare effect.

• Regardless of the unpleasant effect it causes to some photographers’ works, other photographers/filmmakers use it to create classic and dynamic shots. Also, the kind of flares you get is dependent on the type of lens; the size and shape your lens possesses.
• You can shoot under the sun to help you create  the stunning effects you might need in your footage/image.
• Try using angle light to create a beautiful flare on your image.

I would really love it if you can share with us how you use lens flare in the comment section.