Photography Guide for Beginners – Chapter 7

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Polarizing Filters

These filters are used to control light so that only light from a certain direction is allowed to reach the lens. This can be useful in helping to get rid of glare from objects such as glass and water. The result is usually a more natural looking image.
A polarizing filters changes the way your camera will see and use light. The result is that it can affect the vibrancy of some colors in your shot.

Some of the areas where a polarizing filter can have a major impact:

Water – When you use this filters with water, you will cut out the glare and even see a change in the color of water. Without the filters, water will usually appear murky and highly reflective.

Sky – the color of the sky can also change a great deal when you use polarizing filters. When you twist the filter, you will see the sky change color from a pale blue to a deep blue. It can also help to cut out the haze cause by smog in most city shots.

Color – Polarizing filters help to get rid of the reflection that is common in most objects, even those you may not think have it. For instance, with a filter, the foliage in your garden may appear greener that it normally is.

Glass – Getting good shots through glass can be a major challenge. With polarizing filters, you can assist to cut down the glare. This is true for most shiny objects such as new cars.

Protecting your Lens with these Filters

A benefit of using polarizing filters is that you protect you lens from UV damage. You will also protect the lens form anything that might damage or scratch it. However, if you are trying to protect your lens from UV, you can always buy a UV filter instead.

The Effect of Polarizers on Exposure

Most of these filters will reduce the amount of light that your lens will receive. To correct this, you will need to use longer shutter times, a larger aperture, or adjust you ISO. Thus, you should not use the polarizing filters at night.

Homemade Polarizing Filters

A polarizing filter is a way to cut down some of the light. To achieve this effect, you can simply use your sunglasses. Place them in front of the lens to cut down the glare. If you have a point and shot camera, this may be your only option.

Purchasing a Polarizing Filter

Most DSLR cameras have groves where the filters can be attached. Before buying a filter, ensure you know the diameter of your lens. The polarizers usually tend to become expensive as the diameter increases.

How to Use Polarizing filters

Most of them can be adjusted by simply rotating them. As you do this, you will notice reflections and colors start to change. Once you get to where you want, take the shot. Beware that use polarizers in low light is not advisable.

Polarizing Filters Summary

A polarizer should be a tool in any photographer’s bag if they will to become professionals. It does not just help change the color of the sky. It also helps to reduce have and unwanted glare. However, it should never be used in low light conditions.