Lensbaby Lens Hacks Series Part 3: OMNI Filters and Natural Light

Apr 30

In Part 3 of the Lensbaby Lens Hacks series, we’ll explore how light itself can transform your images—especially when paired with OMNI Filters. Whether you’re shooting in harsh sunlight, soft cloud cover, or late golden hour, the OMNI system helps bend and bounce light into expressive, emotional images. This post is a personal walkthrough of how I work with natural light using OMNI tools and what to look for when the light shifts.

Missed Part 1 &2? Start here with Easy Ways to Use OMNI Filters

Welcome to Part 3 of the Lensbaby Lens Hacks series. In this installment, we're exploring how natural light throughout the day interacts with OMNI Filters to create unique photographic effects. Understanding the quality, direction, and temperature of light is crucial for maximizing the potential of these creative tools.

The Dance of Light and OMNI Filters

Light is ever-changing, and its interaction with OMNI Filters can dramatically alter your images. Let's examine how different times of day affect the light and how to best utilize OMNI Filters during these periods.

1. Golden Hour: Sunrise and Sunset

Golden hour, occurring shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers soft, warm light that enhances colors and textures.OMNI Filters during this time can reflect rich hues and create subtle flares. Instead of shooting directly into the sun, position yourself slightly off-angle to allow the wands to gently reintroduce sunlight into your frame.

All photos were taken in my kitchen throughout one day to demonstrate how light evolves—and how OMNI Filters interact with it.

2. Midday

Midday light is intense and can wash out colors, resulting in cooler tones. This period might not be ideal for photography, but if shooting is necessary, seek shade or use shadows for dramatic contrasts. OMNI Filters at this time may produce white reflections, so consider using color filters to add interest.

3. Afternoon Light

As the day progresses, light becomes warmer again, offering more appealing tones. During this time, colorful OMNI Filters can introduce vibrant elements to your photos, contrasting the ambient light. However, crystal wands might still yield less impactful results under these conditions.

4. Golden Hour (Evening)

The evening golden hour mirrors the morning's soft, warm light, ideal for capturing magical images. Even without direct sunlight, the ambient glow can be harnessed using OMNI Filters to create enchanting effects.

5. Blue Hour

Occurring approximately 20 minutes before and after sunset, blue hour presents cooler, subdued tones. Many photographers overlook this time, but it's excellent for capturing unique hues. Crystal wands are particularly effective now, reflecting the remaining light to produce captivating results.

Conclusion

Understanding and adapting to the natural light's nuances throughout the day can significantly enhance your photography with OMNI Filters. Experiment during different times to discover how light and filters can transform your images.

Feel free to share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below. Stay tuned for more insights in my Lensbaby Lens Hacks series.

Explore the Full Series:

👉 Part 1: Easy Ways to Use Your OMNI Filters
Tips for handheld, mounted, and hybrid use + practical setup insights.
👉 Part 2: OMNI Flare Expansion Pack
Explore expressive wands like Prism Flare, Saber, and Zig-Zag, with visual examples.
👉 Part 3: OMNI Filters and Natural Light (you’re here!)
How changing light throughout the day transforms your OMNI results.

Want to explore these techniques with others? Join my free group, Develop with Light, where we share creative prompts, lens tips, and encouragement.