How To Create a Sunburst Effect – No Filter Required

Pismo Beach Pier Sunburst Silhouette

I captured this photo at the California Photo Festival during a class with Rick Sammon in Pismo Beach, CA. To get an image like this with the sun (or any other bright light in an otherwise low-light scene) as a sunburst you can do one of two things:

  1. Use a star filter OR
  2. Choose a small aperture setting like f/16 or smaller (you may need a tripod for this option).

Although I own (and love) a star filter – in this image I used option #2. I was using my Induro AKB1 Tripod mounted Canon EOS 7D with Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 Lens set at 34mm, ISO 100, 1/400 sec at f/22.

Pismo Beach Pier Sunburst Silhouette

Thirty Days of Thanksgiving | Day 13

Today I am thankful for:

  • Coffee & Tea – Its been that kind of day.
  • Take-out for Dinner – Yep, still that kind of day
  • A husband who runs errands after work and picks up take-out

What are you thankful for today?

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