WORK WITH FLARE

Take control of optical effects for greater depth and intrigue

Lens flare is often seen as an unavoidable defect, introduced by lens design. However, there are many cases when it can add a tremendous amount of atmosphere to a shot. In landscapes or night cityscapes, stopping down the aperture renders light sources as hard-edged starburst-like points, which lend added interest and shape. Conversely, using a wide aperture produces a diffused flare, effective for scenics and portraits shot against the sun.