One of the most beneficial filters to use when photographing landscapes is a Circular Polariser and this is one filter I would never be without. Below are some of the benefits of using one.
Getting Rid of Glare
I predominantly use a Circular Polarising (CP) filter when photographing in rainforests, as the filter helps reduce glare shimmering off the water, rocks and greenery. Some CP filters have a dot or triangle on the ring, which when pointed at 90 degrees to the sun, are perfectly positioned to reduce glare. If there is no dot or triangle, simply turn the ring until the glare is reduced the most.
Increase Contrast and Reduce Haze
A CP filter filters out polarised light. A polariser minimises scattered light and allows for greater contrast (i.e. white clouds and blue sky) and also helps to reduce haze.
Milky Water
Photographers often try and create that ‘milky effect’ when photographing waterfalls, cascades etc. A CP filter can reduce your shutter speed by 1.5 to 2 stops of light, slowing down the water.
Saturated Effect
I have never been a big fan of over-saturated images. By using a CP filter, your images will have a bit more of a saturated look, but not over-the-top.
Don’t Buy Cheap!
When looking to buy a CP filter, I strongly advise you not to but cheap, online ‘no name’ brands. Brands such as Singh Ray, Lee and Nisi are all recommended and are of the highest quality.
If you have a passion for wildlife, nature or travel photography and would love to go on a small-number, professional photography adventure, please get in touch with Michael Snedic at WildNature Photo Expeditions. You can call him on 0408 941 965 or fill in this Contact Form and he will get back to you ASAP.