What is Lens Flare ?

Flare Effect 4

Lens flare is an optical effect that occurs when light is scattered or reflected within a lens. Resulting in bright streaks or halos in the image. Flare can be caused by a variety of factors, including reflections from the lens elements or coatings, bright light sources within the frame, or light entering the lens from an angle that is outside the normal field of view.

Flare can be distracting and reduce the overall contrast and clarity of an image.

Some vintage lenses also have coating or multi-coating or other features, that are designed to reduce lens flare. Depending by the manufacturer, the production period and the lens model.

How to avoid Lens Flare ?

Use a lens hood: A lens hood is a tube-like attachment that fits over the front of the lens and blocks extraneous light from entering the lens.

This can help to reduce lens flare and improve contrast.

Position the camera and lens carefully: Try to position the camera and lens so that bright light sources are outside the frame or behind the camera.

This can help to reduce the amount of light that is scattered within the lens and causing flare.

Shoot at a different angle. Sometimes simply changing the angle at which you take the photo can help to avoid lens flare. Experiment with different angles and see which one works best.

Use a lens with good flare resistance: Some lenses are designed with coatings or other features that help to reduce lens flare. If you frequently encounter lens flare in your photography. You may want to consider investing in a lens that has good flare resistance.

Use post-processing techniques: If you do end up with lens flare in your images. You may be able to reduce it using post-processing techniques. Such as dodging and burning or applying a contrast adjustment.