How to Avoid (or Use) Lens Flare When Shooting Into Light
Shooting toward a light source — the whole basis of backlighting — often introduces lens flare, which can either ruin a shot or become part of its appeal, depending on how it's handled.
Why flare happens
Light entering the lens at an angle bounces internally between glass elements, creating streaks, haze, or colored blobs — more pronounced on phone cameras and cheaper lenses with less flare-resistant coatings.
Reducing unwanted flare
Slightly angling the camera so the light source isn't dead-center in frame, or using a hand or hat brim just outside the frame to block direct light from hitting the lens, both cut down flare without losing the backlight glow itself.
Using flare on purpose
A controlled amount of flare or haze can add to a dreamy, cinematic mood — many stylized backlit photos deliberately keep some flare rather than eliminating it entirely.
Does a phone case or dirty lens make flare worse?
Yes — smudges and dust scatter light unpredictably when shooting toward a bright source, so wiping the lens beforehand meaningfully reduces unwanted haze.
