Space Flash Effect Filter: Adding Star Bursts to Photos
By REFLECTLENS® | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Product Reviews
Learn how to use the REFLECTLENS® Space Flash filter to create clean, horizontal star bursts in your photos. Step-by-step guide with tips.
Quick answer
The Space Flash filter from REFLECTLENS® uses parallel white/transparent stripes to stretch light sources into clean, horizontal flares — giving your photos a cinematic star burst effect without altering natural colors.
Why choose a white-light star burst filter
Unlike colored effect filters that tint the scene, the Space Flash preserves the natural tone of your image while adding structure and motion. The white light from the stripes creates a subtle, anamorphic-style flare that works well in both daylight and night shots.
The filter is minimalistic by design — it does not add rainbow flares or heavy diffusion. If you want a bold, colorful effect, consider a prism or colored streak filter instead. The Space Flash is best when you want a clean, professional-looking burst that enhances rather than overpowers your subject.
How to use the Space Flash filter for star bursts
- Mount the filter securely: Screw the Space Flash onto your lens. The RFL Infinity Ring™ lets you spin the filter endlessly after mounting, so you can rotate the stripes to any angle without removing it. Common mistake: overtightening. The ring spins freely — finger-tight is enough.
- Position a bright light source: Point your camera at a streetlamp, car headlight, or the sun (at low angle). The stripes will stretch the light horizontally, creating a clean flare. For a stronger burst, use a smaller aperture (f/8 to f/16). Checkpoint: avoid pointing directly at the sun with a wide aperture — the filter does not reduce UV or heat.
- Rotate the filter for desired angle: While looking through the viewfinder or live view, spin the RFL Infinity Ring until the star burst aligns with your composition. Horizontal flares work well for cinematic landscapes; diagonal adds dynamic energy. Common mistake: forgetting to check the edges — the flare may extend beyond the frame at extreme angles.
- Adjust exposure and focus: Meter for the brightest part of the scene to avoid blown highlights. Use manual focus to keep the flare crisp — autofocus may hunt on the stripes. Bracket your shots if the light is uneven. Checkpoint: if the flare looks too faint, increase the light source intensity or move closer.
- Review and refine: Take a test shot and zoom in. The flare should be clean and horizontal, not smeared or double. If you see unwanted artifacts, rotate the filter slightly or change the light source angle. Common mistake: using too many light sources at once — one bright point gives the cleanest burst.
Product details
- Space Flash: White light. Anamorphic clarity. SPACE FLASH is a minimalistic anamorphic-style filter built with parallel white/transparent stripes that stretch light sources into clean, horizontal flares. This means you get a consistent, subtle star burst effect without color shifts, making it versatile for portraits, landscapes, and street photography.
Space Flash
