You’ve taken a picture. Perfect angles, impeccable timing. Yet, it lacks that *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 http://www.addlensflare.com

Remember when you were a kid, experimenting with a magnifying glass to catch the sunlight? Lens flares work on the same principle. This is essentially light scattered in your lens. It can transform the mundane into something spectacular! Let’s talk about why and how you can add this magic touch to your photos before you start Photoshop wizardry.

Lighting conditions seriously affect lens flares. 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.

Now let’s dive into the how-to. Negotiating with a sugar-engorged toddler is much easier. Let’s start with tools. Whether you’re a Photoshop guru or a Lightroom enthusiast, options are plentiful.

In Photoshop:

1. Open your image. Step zero, really.

2. Go to Filter > Render > Lens Flare. You didn’t expect it to be so 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. Upload your photos. Duh.

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

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

4. Adjust Exposure & Highlights. Give it that dreamy burnt look.

Photographing with an intentional lens flare? This is not for the fainthearted, but it’s absolutely worth it. Set your aperture to f2.8 (or lower) and use light as your friend, not your enemy. 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 technical babble. Lens flares have personalities. They tell stories and evoke emotions. The sun-kissed photo of a beach screams serenity. A cityscape with just starting to twinkle lights at dusk whispers secrets about the urban jungle. Use flares to give your photos these narratives.

A little sidebar story here – my first attempt at a 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. The lesson learned is that moderation and placement of flares are important. My flares now are subtle whispers rather than loud declarations.

Let’s address the quirks. Overdoing flares can backfire. It’s like putting sequins on everything – just stop. Restraint is key, even with lens flares. It’s an enhancement, not a distraction. Use them sparingly to keep the magic alive.

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. You can make your photos memorable by adding a little zest. So go on, make that sunlight dance. Add the sparkle, and let your images mesmerize viewers. Lens flare isn’t just a filter; it’s the magic spark in your photographic imagination.