The Art of Flare

[pgk]

This might seem like an odd query, but how do your lenses flare? Which lenses do you like the flare characteristics of and why? How controllable is flare do you think?

I quite enjoy trying to force flare and wonder if others have any comments they are interested in sharing. I've found some lenses to produce harsh unacceptable flare spots (not talking about Leica lenses in this particular instance) which I found unacceptable. My favourite Leica flare is from the 80/1.4 R so far. Whilst it can be tricky to control when possible (especially wide open and into the light) it can produce some very pleasant effects. Here's an example taken from a short distance from where I live, into the sun.