user9207: How are lens flares akin to that in shows like Battlestar Galactica, SGU, etc. achieved?
Here is an example:


user674: All the main editing packages have lens flare as an option, so this is incredibly easy in post.
To do it live is less controllable, but is still simple - in fact avoiding lens flare is one of the challenges, as many lens configurations give unpleasant flare when shooting anywhere near the sun.

user9287: I think the type of lens flare you're looking for is anamorphic lens flare.

9207: <p><strong>How are lens flares akin to that in shows like Battlestar Galactica, SGU, etc. achieved?</strong></p>

<p>Here is an example:</p>

<p><img src="https://i.stack.imgur.com/EXSUx.jpg" alt="Lens Flare Example"></p>
 674: <p>All the main editing packages have lens flare as an option, so this is incredibly easy in post.</p>

<p>To do it live is less controllable, but is still simple - in fact avoiding lens flare is one of the challenges, as many lens configurations give unpleasant flare when shooting anywhere near the sun.</p>
 9287: <p>I think the type of lens flare you're looking for is anamorphic lens flare.</p>
