This is a very simple technique I’ve done forever to make a more intense sunburst from the sun. The basics of creating a sunburst or starburst is the point light source (the sun) and closing the lens to its smallest aperture. While not essential, it really helps to have a clean from element / filter as well (to avoid UFOs). Not having anything like clouds between you and the sun is important. And the best starburst comes from lenses with the most number of aperture blades producing the smallest holes. And with that, you’re good to go.
Now in this technique, you take the basics one step further by giving the sun a little squeeze. “The Squeeze” or pinch makes the size of the sun smaller by clipping it by an element in the scene. In this case, the sides of arches at Arches Nat’l Park. By moving physically ever so slightly, the sun is just barely peaking around the edge of the arch. You’re handholding and constantly moving ever so much as the earth rotates exposing more sun. I’m shooting with the Df / 18-35AFS / 16Fish and they give you two different lookin starbursts for comparison. It’s a simple enhancement that can bring that little extra zing to your landscape photos.