Lenses & focus / Learn by doing
Lens Flare explained simply
What is “Lens Flare”?
Unwanted or creative bright shapes, haze or streaks caused by light reflecting inside the lens.
- 01Light enters lens
- 02Reflections appear
- 03Shade and compare
How do you use Lens Flare practically?
A small exercise
Photograph a safe bright lamp just outside the frame, then shade the lens with a hood. Compare contrast and bright shapes.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does Lens Flare solve a problem?
It helps diagnose a washed-out picture or create a deliberate atmosphere with backlight.
What can go wrong?
Never look at the sun through an optical viewfinder or point equipment at unsafe intense sources.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Light enters lens → Reflections appear → Shade and compare. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
Lens basics — Canon
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
Planning a portrait or product session? Use the glossary with our practical shoot guides, then check the studio facilities and send your confirmed requirements with an availability enquiry.