In Camera Lens Flare (5D Mark II & L series lenses)

[TheTripodSquad]

I've been working on a project recently, where in I need to achieve high levels of lens flare (as per 'Star Trek', 'Transformers' and a hundred other Sci-Fi blockbusters of the last few years) through both in camera and post-production techniques.

I'm currently using (to film this project) a Canon 5D Mark II and a Canon 550d, as well as the following lenses: Canon 17-40mm f4 L, Canon 100mm f2.8 Macro L, Canon 70-200mm f2.8 IS L, Canon 50mm f1.4 and a Canon 50mm f1.8 Mk2.

I've seen some 'Cinemorph Filters' from Vid Atlantic that seem to do an amazing job, and will most likely purchase for my higher speed lenses. However, after talking to one of their guys, they suggested against the purchase of a custom 77mm filter for the 17-40mm running at f4.

So, my question to you all: does anyone know of, or have any experience in, achieving convincing in camera, controlled lens flare, with a Canon 17-40mm f4 L, or similar lens

Thanks,
Justin

 

[Harvey_nikon]

As no one else has replied.

I've never tried to get lens flare, however, the only time I've ever really experienced it was with a kit lens like yours and a UV filter.

I suppose it would just be a case of experimenting and seeing what you can achieve, however I would of thought doing it in PP would be the easier of the two to do!

 

[GeForce Junky]

Its a big feature of using a anamorphic lens isn't it? (I seam to remember reading that somewhere) Prehaps you could look at anamorphic lens adapters for your dslr.

 

[TheTripodSquad]

As no one else has replied.

I've never tried to get lens flare, however, the only time I've ever really experienced it was with a kit lens like yours and a UV filter.

I suppose it would just be a case of experimenting and seeing what you can achieve, however I would of thought doing it in PP would be the easier of the two to do!

I've tried similar things with UV filters, but the results are too weak, or inconsistent for the directed glare that I'm trying to achieve. it would be easier or achieve an exact look in PP, however, I am trying to achieve the perfect mix or real and digital. Beyond that, it is a personal preference to achieve lighting effects in camera - the old "It feels more real" argument that traditional film based directors use against people like me on digital

Its a big feature of using a anamorphic lens isn't it? (I seam to remember reading that somewhere) Prehaps you could look at anamorphic lens adapters for your dslr.

I have looked into the converters, however decent quality ones are a bit beyond budget at present. Hoping that of I find a deal, then I'd take it, but looking for alternatives constantly.

 

[itsdavedotnet]

I think a key here will be in the lighting - even the best lenses will flare with an in shot light source in the 'right' place