Shooting Video at Golden Hour - Embracing Lens Flares
Capturing the Magic: Shooting Video at Golden Hour and Embracing Lens Flares
Introduction:
As filmmakers and videographers, we are always in search of that enchanting, ethereal quality in our shots. One of the most captivating times to shoot video is during the golden hour – that magical time just after sunrise and before sunset when the sun casts a warm, soft light that bathes everything in a beautiful glow. But what if we take it a step further and deliberately shoot into the setting sun to create stunning lens flares without relying on additional lighting or reflectors to fill the shadows? In this blog, we'll explore the art of shooting video during the golden hour and harnessing the power of lens flares to add a touch of enchantment to your footage.
The golden hour is a coveted time for photographers and cinematographers alike. It occurs shortly after sunrise and just before sunset when the sun is low on the horizon, and its light becomes soft, diffused, and golden in hue. The resulting lighting conditions create a warm, flattering glow that lends a magical quality to your shots. Shooting during this time can help eliminate harsh shadows and create a visually appealing atmosphere for your video.
Lens flares occur when direct sunlight enters the camera lens and scatters internally, creating dazzling streaks or bursts of light across the frame. While some may consider lens flares as unwanted artifacts, many filmmakers intentionally use them to enhance the visual storytelling and add a dreamy, otherworldly feel to their videos.
When shooting into the setting sun, it's essential to be mindful of certain techniques to achieve the desired results:
a. Sun Position: Positioning the sun just outside the frame or partially obscured by an object, such as a tree or building, can create striking lens flares while preventing excessive glare and overexposure.
b. Manual Focus: Switching to manual focus allows you to control the focal point and emphasize the lens flares, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
c. Aperture Settings: Experiment with different aperture settings to control the intensity and size of the lens flares. A wider aperture (lower f-stop value) tends to produce more prominent and pronounced flares.
d. Flare Control: Using a lens hood or your hand to shade the lens can help control the flare's appearance and minimize unwanted glare.
To maintain a natural and unforced look in your video, avoid using artificial lighting or reflectors to fill shadows. Instead, embrace the subtle variations in lighting that the golden hour provides. This will not only create a more organic and authentic atmosphere but also let the lens flares take center stage.
Shooting video during the golden hour and intentionally incorporating lens flares into your shots can elevate your footage to new artistic heights. By understanding the dynamics of the golden hour and employing specific techniques when shooting into the setting sun, you can achieve a visually stunning and magical look that captivates your audience. Embrace the imperfections and unexpected beauty that lens flares bring to your videos, and let the enchantment unfold on screen. So, the next time you head out with your camera, keep an eye on the sun's position, and don't be afraid to explore the possibilities of shooting video with the golden hour and lens flares as your allies. Happy shooting!
We were lucky enough to catch golden hour at the spectacular North Head Reserve in Manly. Here’s a BTS look at our shoot and some footage from the final result.