Flare

So, for a couple of months now I've been trying to figure out how to introduce flare into my pictures.  My boss gave me some tips (just get the sun in the frame), and I figured it would be so simple.  Yeah right!  Getting flare in my pictures has become as elusive as making good fudge!  My family has a fudge curse.  It usually comes out horrible!   In fact, it wasn't until my buddy Jen came to town with fool-proof, step-by-step instructions that we managed to get it right (on the second try!).  So...back to the flare.  

My first attempts at it have been epic fails.  Too hazy!  

Then I was just randomly thinking about it last week and realized (duh) I've been leaving the lens hood on all the time.  The lens hood which basically prevents flare!  After reading some articles on it, I decided since I'm so accident prone, leaving the lens hood on was probably a good way to keep me from damaging the lens when I bump it into stuff (like door frames).  

So...this evening I was out on the back patio with the kids and figured it was the perfect time to test out my lens hood theory.  I will definitely get some good flare now! 

Ugh....not so much.  The haze is gone, but I don't know...there just wasn't enough flare.  Maybe the sun was still too high...or maybe I should try to get it over in the corner rather than somewhat centered...I'm working with a teeny tiny back yard though, so it's tough to get good angles when I'm trying to work with the sun.  

Alas...flare continues to evade me.  "/  Maybe Jen will show up at my door with step-by-step fool-proof instructions on how to get good flare.  (hint...hint...)

For now...I'll just stick with that I know works...Anna and bubbles.  :)