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Secrets Of A Former Life.Church Photographer

Can I share them with you?

Author

Brady Shearer
May 02, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 6 minutes

Hey, it’s Brady,

A former Life.Church photographer taught me a few tricks. Can I share them with you?

#1. The “Streak” Effect

First is a way to get beautiful anamorphic-like streaks across your photos (see example below). And it's all done in-camera. No need for plugins or some AI generator.

The “Streak” Effect

The way to accomplish this is with a lens filter that you can hold up to the end of your camera lens with your hand - no need to even screw the filter onto the lens thread.

It's called a flare filter.

Here's another example of this streak effect - this time on a beautiful black and white stylized photo:

Links to recommended options and 1-page cheat sheet PDF for this filter below:

#2. The “Starburst” Effect

Next, take a look at the image below of a pastor preaching from stage. See those lights above him? And the beautiful blue streaks almost in the shape of stars? That's also created by a lens filter.

The “Starburst” Effect

Here’s another example from another angle in the sanctuary. This time the starbursts are glowing orange:

The filter you'll want to create this effect is a starburst filter.

Links to recommended options and 1-page cheat sheet PDF for this filter below:

#3. The “Mist” Effect

Finally, take a look at this shot below in a church lobby - pretty standard. Except for the heavenly glow in the bright parts of the image.

The “Mist” Effect

Amazingly, that’s not a digital effect. It's created in-camera (again) using a lens filter.

Here's another example of that same filter, but for a shot during worship. Just look at the diffusion and glow on the blue lights behind the guitar player:

The filter you'll want to create this effect is a mist filter.

Importantly, mist filters come in different densities. If you want the dreamy/glow effect you see in these examples, 1/4 is the ideal density.

Links to recommended options and 1-page cheat sheet PDF for this filter below:

Important Notes About Using Filters

#1. Make sure you get the right size filter for your lens. If you’re not sure what size you need, look up “thread size” for the largest lens you use.

#2. For your smaller lenses, get step-down rings that match the thread size of your largest lens so you can use the filter on those lenses too.

#3. Alternatively? Hand hold the filter up to the lens manually. No need to screw on the filter at all.

#4. For best results, use filters while shooting with open apertures (f2.8 and lower) and wider focal lengths (24mm-50mm).

The Producer Behind Lecrae & Tim Ross’ Podcasts

Both Tim Ross and Lecrae have launched successful podcasts in the last couple of years.

They haven't done it alone though.

This week on the podcast we’re joined by the creative director of the studio behind both of these new shows.

We talk about how they come up with episode ideas, set design, and of course, everyone's favorite topic - the gear they're using.

Thanks as always for your time, attention, and trust. Talk to you next Thursday. - Brady Shearer