Which Filter…?

Paul

That is really helpful – many thanks. The polariser can be turned so I will try rotating for the optimum image. And, as you say, it now costs next to nothing to experiment and see what suits best. And your tip about the general protective use of the UV filter is very helpful.

Thanks again!;)

Hi Charlie,

UV filters will avoid the slight blue cast that becomes apparent on photos taken in overcast situations – though these days most basic digital image photo editting software will allow one or more ways of rebalancing colour tones to remove the blue tint anyway, so UV filters may not be needed as much as in the days of film-based photography.

I tend to view UV filters now as providing a useful (and cost effective) means of protecting the objective lenses on my D-SLR lenses from abrasion/scratches etc – i.e. I use them more as a physical protection of the lens(es) than for their effect on the image.

Polarising filters can/do give good results in terms of “enhancing” colours by improving contrast and or by reducing reflections in some situations, but I have found they can also tend to give a somewhat “unreal” look to images as the end result may not reflect what the eye could actually see. You will have to use trial and error and a bit of experimentation to work out when they improve the result, and when they may not give the desired result.

One thing to watch for is that the orientation of the polariser can also affect the image – if the polariser can be turned in it’s holder once fitted, fix the camera on a scene(eg with atripod or by placing it ona solid surface), and then keep you eye on the view finder as you slowly turn the polariser lens in it’s mount/holder, you will find the depth of colour in say, the sky, or foliage, varies with the position of the lens. Again, trial and error and a bit of forethought/experience can help get the desired result.

At least with digital imaging it costs next to nothing to go out and play around to see what works – in the days of film cameras “trial and error” could get pretty expensive!

Cheers
Paul F