May 3, 2010

Sun Flare

I don't exactly have a 2 + 2 formula to get a great sun flare shot. It takes a lot of practice to get the desired look you are going for. I still don't think I have mastered it. But I can share a few pointers that helped me get these shots.

I always take them late in the day, right before the sun goes down. The sun is less intense that way.

IMG_5312after

I meter and focus on the subject. Which can be difficult is you are using autofocus. I have to manual focus.

mckinneyengagement


mcguirefamily-1

I hope I am not disappointing anyone. It really is that simple. Be sure to practice, practice, practice and practice some more. It took me a while to get it but once I did, it quickly become one of my favorite shots!

*Update- As pointed out in the comments.  With the first shot there was a tree to block most of the sunlight. I kept moving around until I found the exact position that let in just enough light. Which gave me a great shot. In the second picture, it was a little more difficult but I used their faces to block most of the light. I did the same thing with the third picture. You need to use something to block the sunlight. Most of the time I use people but you can use buildings, trees, etc.

17 comments:

  1. I've also found that partially shading the sun helps. This can be done with leaves, faces, bodies, houses, clouds, really the list is endless. And you're right...one to two hours before sunset or after sunrise helps a ton.

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  2. These are beautiful, and something I need to practice at! I live on the water and I'm determined to take some great sun/water shots.

    P.S. I've tagged you with and Honest Scrap Award here:
    http://sweetpplusthree.blogspot.com/2010/05/honestly.html

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  3. These are GORGEOUS!!! I need to get practicing! Wish there was sun today!

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  4. I love the 3rd photo...so sweet. I love taking sun flare shots...they are so much fun!

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  5. Thanks so much for the tips. I am been practicing all weekend. I am having a hard time keeping my subject properly exposed. I get a get flare but my subject is too dark. Any suggestions? Anyone? Thanks! :-)

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  6. Thanks for the tips. I had actually read on the I Heart Faces site last Fall that a good setting for f-stop is around 11. I don't know if you think that matters or not but I remember that one tip. :)

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  7. I have recently found a love of sun flares... they are fun to shoot and edit. Love yours with the mom and son.

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  8. Heather- that's an interesting tip! All three of these pictures were taken at an f.stop of 2.0.

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  9. Goodness, I love the couple one:)
    So romantic. :)
    I saw you visited my blog, so I had to drop by.. :)

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  10. Beautiful work. Still trying to figure out my camera.

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  11. Great shots Monica! I love sunflare and find that every one has different tastes and likes different effects. There is no right or wrong.

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  12. Lovely photos! You are very talented!

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  13. I love that last shoot!! Perfect!

    As for me I have tried and failed many times maybe these tips will help:)

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  14. Eager to start practicing this! Thanks for the tips! I love that last shot...absolutely perfect!

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  15. Lovely shots and thanks for the tips

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  16. Thanks for sharing this! I didn't realize it was that simple. :)

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