Ask any question about Photography here... and get an instant response.

How can I create a sunburst effect in landscape photography?

Asked on Dec 19, 2025

Answer

Creating a sunburst effect in landscape photography involves using specific camera settings and positioning to capture the sun's rays as distinct lines radiating from the light source. This effect is achieved by adjusting the aperture and carefully composing the shot to include the sun partially obscured by an object like a tree or mountain.

<!-- BEGIN COPY / PASTE -->
    Aperture: Use a small aperture (e.g., f/16 or f/22) to enhance the sunburst effect.
    Composition: Position the sun partially behind an object to create defined rays.
    Timing: Shoot during golden hour for softer light and more dramatic sunbursts.
    Lens: Use a lens with a high-quality diaphragm to produce cleaner rays.
    <!-- END COPY / PASTE -->

Additional Comment:

A tripod can help stabilize the camera for sharp images at smaller apertures.
Experiment with different angles to find the most appealing sunburst effect.
Consider using a lens hood to reduce lens flare and enhance contrast.
Post-processing can further enhance the sunburst effect by adjusting highlights and clarity.

✅ Answered with Photography best practices.

Ask any question about Photography here... and get an instant response.

How can I create a sunburst effect in landscape photography?

Asked on Dec 19, 2025

Answer

The Q&A Network