The benefit of polarizing filters only those who have one know it. It is impossible to know their usefulness and not want to get hold of one or two. If your photographic equipment still does not have one of these filters, you need to read today’s article. In it I will give you an example of the usefulness of these little gadgets. And if you want to know more about photographic accessories, don’t miss the mega guide with buying advice and recommendations.
What is a polarizing filter and what is it used for?
It is exactly that: a filter. It is placed at the end of the lens (mediating between the scene we are going to photograph and the lens glass), and it is mainly used for 2 things:
- Reduce reflections on some metallic, glass or water surfaces.
- Enhances the blue of the sky in contrast to the white of the clouds.
- It can have more useful situations but it is mainly used for the two previous situations.
Examples of photos taken with and without a polarizing filter
Here are a couple of examples to illustrate the power of polarizing filters.
In the following image, using a polarizing filter we get rid of the annoying reflection of the sun on the car:
Another example of very frequent use of these filters is the sky, which is enhanced and with a much more intense blue color:
Polarizing filter: types, brands and qualities
There are two types of polarizing filters: circular and square (also called linear). The most common, practical and easy to find are circular filters. They are attached to the lens by means of a thread and do not get in the way at all. Even when in autofocus mode, the filter follows the movement of the autofocus part of the lens.
The linear ones have the disadvantage that they often move (fall?) with the movement of the autofocus.
There are polarizing filters of all brands and qualities, you will notice it in the wide range of prices 😉 Although you don’t have to go until one of 150 euros. A 52mm diameter HOYA brand polarizer could cost you around 20 euros on average and you can expect very good results from it.
Oh, very important. Look at the diameter of your lens before you go shopping for one of these filters. Otherwise it might be too big/small for the lens.
This all for today. You know, if you want to take outdoor photography seriously, you can’t go without a good filter of these.
PS: There are other types of filters, such as neutral density, protective, or colored. In the following article I talk more extensively about all the types of filters there are.