The Great Lens Flare Debate of Feb 2009

[Mad Aussie]

Here's a shot I took in NZ a couple of years ago that produced a fair bit of lens flare.

I entered this shot in an online comp back then, and it won.
Probably more due to the fact the comp subject was Energy and I titled the photo 'Solar meets Wind' which I guess brought meaning and purpose to the lens flare.
I figure the photo won more for the comp subject than it own technical qualities.

So ... I'm happy to hear what you people think (critique welcome) about the photo itself but also, more specifically, the lens flare.

Lens Flare is usually not a desired element in a photo, as far as I can see and have read/heard, but I'd love to see other photos added that you have taken that feature lens flare.

[Iguanasan]

Personally, I like it. The lens flare would be horribly distracting if you were doing a portrait or flowers or some such. When the focal point of the photo is the sun or sunset, etc. then I think the flare can add to the photo.

Grant it, I like a good sunset/sunrise without the flare but it depends upon mood.

Regards, Iguanasan

[EJC]

I think lens flares used in context are wonderful things. It's another example of breaking the rules is okay if you know why you're doing it. This is a great example.

cheers
EJC

[Mad Aussie]

The great lens flare debate didn't really get started did it? I guess I won

[Mad Aussie]

Another example that might rate ...

[tomorrowstreasures]

get a new camera... you have too many lens flare issues - jk. i like them both. I especially like the windmill one because I love rainbow-ie type things -

[EJC]

This is my favorite shot with an intentional flare

Cheers
EJC

[Mad Aussie]

Thanks for adding your shot EJC

[Mad Aussie]

I took this lens flare shot last week and figured it might as well rest here