Lens flare occurs when direct light falls upon the front element of the lens resulting in potentially distracting patterns of light which may even ruin an image. It is easy to think of lens flare when shooting into a light source, but you should also take care of situations when light is coming from the side of your composition. Here are some ways that I avoid lens flare.
Don’t shoot into direct light
@ Dylan Toh
Although this sounds impractical, it is clearly the most foolproof way to avoid lens flare. Many photographers have a preference for shooting opposite light sources where there can still be dramatic light such as alpenglow or rainbows.
When shooting directly into the light
Make sure your lens is clean. Any specks of dust, moisture or smears will accentuate any natural lens flare.
Take multiple images of the same scene. If I am shooting into the sun, I will often shoot three images. The first image with no adjustment containing the lens flare. The second image with a finger held in front of the lens to obscure the light source such that flare is removed from the rest of the image. The third image with a finger held in front of the lens from a different angle to obtain a flare free segment in the part of the previous image taken with your hand present! I then blend all three images together.
When shooting with side light
If your lens has a lens hood, use it. This will often prevent direct light from falling onto the lens.
If you do not have a lens hood, hold your hand or a solid object between the light source and your lens but ensure that it does not invade your composition.
As with shooting into the light, make sure your lens is clean.
Best Filters I’ve Used for Landscape Photography – NiSi Screw-in Filters for Nikon Z 14-24mm F2.8 S Lens
by Dylan Toh
