CONTROLLING LENS FLARE

One of my favorite non-photoshop techniques is lens-flare. This photo was a painful procedure for me, as it was extremely cold outside. It was no doubt enjoyable for the models however, relaxing in the nice warm outdoor hot tub! I love the result however, as the steam and snow accurately give the viewer a sense of the cold air, and warm water.



It is the lens flare however that makes the photograph for me. This technique is easily done, and the results will always be unique:
1. Overexpose the photograph.
2. Do not have the sun in the composition, but place it just millimeters outside of the frame.
3. You can control (to a certain extent) how the flare will behave by moving your own physical position.
4. Take the picture! If the image is too dark, overexpose more.

This technique is easy to do, and is especially helpful for winter scenes. Make sure you do not look at sun through your viewfinder. For those of you with newer D-SLR cameras with LiveView, you can compose via the screen. Good luck!

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