Intentional Lens Flare

I shot several backlit images with flash fill, intending the type of lens flare that produces a low contrast image and the flare is evenly distributed over the frame producing a washed out look. What I got is this:

Wikipedia has this to say about the subject:

When a bright light source is shining on the lens but not in its field of view, lens flare appears as a haze that washes out the image and reduces contrast.

The sun was out of the field of view, and the desired effect was visible in the viewfinder, but not captured.

Could it be the lens (Nikon 80-200mm)? Any thoughts, tips?

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