How To Add Lens Flare :
In this tutorial, we'll learn how layers and layer blend modes in Photoshop
make it easy to add a lens flare effect to an image without
making any permanent changes to the original photo. We'll start by learning how
to add lens flare, and position it exactly where we need it, using Photoshop's Lens
Flare filter. Then, to keep things non-destructive, we'll undo the
effect, add a new layer, and then instantly re-apply the Lens Flare filter
using a handy shortcut!
Finally, we’ll use the power of layer blend modes to easily
blend the lens flare into the image, and finish off by adjusting its colors to
better match the colors in the photo. We’ll also apply some blurring to soften
the lens flare and help it look more realistic.
I'll be using Photoshop CC (Creative Cloud), but this
tutorial is also fully compatible with Photoshop CS6. For
earlier versions of Photoshop, check out our original Non-Destructive Lens Flare Effect
tutorial.
Download our tutorials as printable PDFs!
Learning Photoshop has never been easier!
For best results, you'll want to apply the lens flare effect to an image
that has the light source actually visible in the photo, whether it's the sun,
a studio light, or whatever the case may be. Here's the image I'll be working
with (family on beach at sunset photo
from Shutter stock):
The
original image.
