So, you’ve captured a photo. Perfect angles, impeccable timing. Yet, it lacks that *something*. Consider adding some magic by introducing lens flare. Lens flare, when employed correctly, can transform even the dullest frames into visual masterpieces shining with brilliance. It’s not as simple as slapping a flare on and calling it good. There’s art to it, a method to this madness! Read more now on http://www.addlensflare.com

Remember when you were a kid, experimenting with a magnifying glass to catch the sunlight? Lens flare works on a similar principle. This is essentially light scattered 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? That warm sunlight can enhance your flare, giving it that golden glow. But be cautious; too much light can overwhelm your frame. It’s like adding chili to your stew – a little can heighten flavors, too much can set your tongue on fire.

Let’s get into the how-to. Negotiating with a sugar-engorged toddler is much easier. Let’s start with tools. There are many options available, whether you’re an expert in Photoshop or a Lightroom fanatic.

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, on the other hand, is a tad trickier but far from rocket science:

1. Upload your photos. Duh.

2. Head to Develop mode. Here is where the magic happens.

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

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

Photographing with an intentional lens flare? Not for the faint-hearted but absolutely gem-worthy. Set your aperture to f2.8 (or lower) and use light as your friend, not your enemy. Remember the scene in an old gangster film where the protagonist peeks behind a corner? This is your picture – drama, suspense and a flash of brilliance.

Enough of the technical babble. Lens flares have 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 create these narratives in your photos.

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. Stop adding sequins to everything. Even with lens flares, restraint is your bestie. This is an enhancement and 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. Make mistakes and laugh at the absurdly bizarre results. Photographic art is a combination of science and art.

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. Your images will be mesmerized by adding sparkle. Lens flare isn’t just a filter; it’s the magic spark in your photographic imagination.