Contact us via email or phoneEmail us | Phone: +1 615-771-5611
Login  Password Login
Forgot your password? | Not a member? Sign up for free
categories
designers area
photographers area
resources
photo map
free photos
dreamstime blogs
Abstract  Animals  Arts & Architecture  Business  Editorial  Illustrations & Clipart  Industries  IT & C  Nature  Objects  People  Technology  Travel

Collapse | Close
Lightbox/cart:  View & Download
You have 0 images
 
Home > Blogs! > Destinyvispro 's Blog
Polarizing Filters     posted on 1st of october, 2007

A polarizing filter is one of those nifty devices that help block haze, reduce light glare and increase contrast in clouds. Its difficult to describe. Some say its like having a set of vertical blinds that you can close part way, blocking out the glare on a scene. A polarizer works because of the way light waves travel.

Polarizers are great for shooting water or glass because they block those annoying reflections that plague photographers. There are two kinds of polarizing filters, linear and circular. Circular polarizers are generally compatible with all sensor types on all cameras. This is why they are more recommended than the linear type.

You can expect to loose any where from 1 to 2 steps of exposure when using a polarizing filter, but the effect is worth it's weight. The use of a polarizer can be faked (poorly) in computer during post-processing. However, it takes a great deal of time and patience. Indeed, it is a lot more convenient to have a polarizer in the field than it is to fiddle for an hour or so on your computer.

A tip for your snapshots: I wouldn't recommend it for submission on Dreamstime, but in a pinch, some hi-grade sunglasses can be held in front of your lens to fake the effect of a polarizer. Just remember, the cheaper the sunglasses, the worse it's going to look. This cheap trick is also awkward and usually results in some serious vignetting.

Polarizers are just one of those "must have" filters that are worth an investment.

If you want to read more about the science behind polarized light, check here. Happy shooting!


Tags: camera filter howto polarizer technique

Share
No Comments


This article has been read 607 times.
Photo credits: Juan Jose Tugores Gaspar, Destinyvispro, .
 
    Search the blogs!
Latest articles (RSS 2.0 )
  Tale of the Taxes
  Capturing Inspiration and Ideas
  Imitation: Flattery or Violation?
  Developing a Style
  Secrets to following the numbers
  Polarizing Filters
  A musical beast
  A little persistence

Create your own blog in seconds...
My favourite articles
None
More favorite articles
    About Me

confidential info
<10

>I am a chronically diverse artist. I enjoy exploring and creating art in all its forms.
Blogs

  Upload image | About Us | FAQ | Contact Us | Terms of use | API / Referral program | Site map | Privacy policy | Free Stock Images
Support - phone: +1 615-771-5611, Click here to contact us

 dreamstime
  Copyright © 2000-2012 Dreamstime. All rights reserved.
Dreamstime is a member of PACA and CEPIC.