Are you looking to add a hint of sparkle to your portraits that doesn’t look overly edited? Then the Star Filter is the perfect solution. Capture any image of a light source with the Star Filter attached, and soon you’ll be mesmerized. Glamour shots are meant to wow, and an added star effect will allow the model to glow. In this guide, we’ll discuss tips on how you can capture stunning glamour shots with your iPhone and an attachable Star Filter.

A star filter is an attachable filter you can use to create a starburst effect in your photos and videos. It works by using a grid etched into the glass to diffract light, creating radiant lines that extend from bright points in the image, like streetlights, candles, or reflections. The number of lines, or “points,” can vary depending on the filter, typically ranging from 4-point, 6-point, to 8-point effects.

Each style offers a slightly different aesthetic—4-point gives a classic sparkle, 6-point adds a more dramatic flare, while 8-point delivers a bold, cinematic look. Star filters are especially popular for nighttime cityscapes, holiday lights, and glamour portraits, adding a dreamy touch without needing post-editing.

Attaching a star filter to your iPhone for glamour shots can give your photos a more captivating look. Since the 1970s, the starburst effect has been used for album covers and glamour photography, especially during the disco era. That era was marked by a heightened desire for visual flair and drama. Today, the starburst effect adds a vintage or retro feel to your images. By placing a light source behind your subject, you can fill the background with star-like flares.

The star filter naturally transforms light sources into dazzling star effects. To make the most of sunlight, aim to shoot during sunrise or sunset, when the sun sits low in the sky and can be easily framed in your shot. For best results, focus on small, intense points of light. Specular highlights, like reflections off jewelry, glossy lips, or sequins, produce sharp, well-defined starbursts. Pair these with hard, direct light sources such as the sun, LED bulbs, or fairy lights for added drama.

2. Mind the Angle

The direction and appearance of star flares depend on both your lens angle and how you rotate the filter. Pointing your lens directly at a strong light source (like the sun or an LED) creates bold, symmetrical flares, while tilting it slightly softens or shifts the effect. Rotating the filter changes the orientation of the starburst lines, letting you align them with elements in your frame. Together, these small adjustments give you creative control over how the star effect enhances your shot.

3. Focus on Key Highlights

When creating a starburst effect, carefully position your subject and light source so the burst naturally draws the viewer’s attention to focal points, like the eyes, lips, or standout accessories. For example, placing a light behind an earring or just above the brow line can amplify drama and elegance. This technique not only enhances visual appeal but can also subtly guide the viewer’s gaze to what you want to highlight.

Adding a star filter to your photography toolbox can open up a world of creative possibilities, especially for glamour shots. When photographing models, the starburst effect brings a sense of elegance and drama, turning ordinary light sources into radiant stars.

Whether it’s the glint of jewelry, the sparkle in a model’s eyes, or backlighting with a cinematic glow, the filter helps create a polished, editorial-style look. It’s an easy way to infuse your portraits with vintage aesthetic and a professional finish.