|
Polarizing Filters for Warmer Shots |
|
|
| Add This Article To: |
Del.icio.us |
 Digg |
Google |
Spurl |
Blink |
 Furl |
Simpy |
 Y!
MyWeb |
|
|
Written by OpenDP
|
|
Monday, 13 November 2006 |
From shiny gleams atop bald heads to brilliant sun caught in autumn foliage, reflections can do both good and bad in photographic composition. But what if a certain digital camera accessory could reduce glares caused by reflection while also intensifying color saturation?
Invaluable to many photographers, the polarizing filter both neutralizes the reflective glares in photos and also deepens hues in the photo’s composition. Skies appear bluer, clouds appear whiter, and overall, the photo’s components look brilliant and vibrant.
When a photographer wants to shoot subjects or objects on an angle behind water or glass, a polarizing filter makes a tremendous impact on reflection reduction. Polarizing filters, or polarizers, allow the photographer to manipulate the amount of light that reaches the camera’s sensor by rotating the filter. This in turn deepens the colors in the captured image while also increasing contrast.
Polarizing filters also help photographers avoid glare caused by shiny objects in a photo’s composition. Glossy metals, gleaming puddles and other glistening surfaces often reflect light in funny ways. When this reflected light gets caught in a photograph, it sometimes causes distortions and hazy glares. For this reason alone, it’s easy to see how photographers have limitless value to gain from a polarizer.
When photographers opt to apply a polarizing filter to their cameras, they must choose between linear and circular polarizers. These two kinds operate similarly and produce the same results. Photographers need only make their selection based on compatibility with their digital device to prevent interference with camera functioning. When in doubt, photographers should consult their camera’s manufacturer before selecting a particular polarizing filter.
Benefits of polarizing filters:
- Achieve warmer tones in photos
- Sharper, more vivid colors
- Avoid reflections and glares
- Great for photographing scenes with lakes and bodies of water
If your camera is not compatible with lens filters, you can create a similar effect by holding your sunglasses in front of the lens.
|
Featured Photographers 
