Lens Polarizer

Boddie · #1 (**permalink**) 01-12-2009, 01:25 PM

Do polarizers offer anything that cant be counteracted by photoshop. I intend to use the camera it would be fitted to for architecture and landscape

Cheers

Richard G. · #2 (**permalink**) 01-12-2009, 02:35 PM

Short answer is yes.
Long answer is here.

Not sure if there is that much to be gained in architechtural photography, depending on whether it's interior or exterior shots, might be useful if sky is included for example?

For landscapes though, a polariser is critical, IMHO. Not just for sky's, but foliage, water etc. Cuts down on the, usually, unwanted reflected light and helps to increase saturation.

GTH · #3 (**permalink**) 01-12-2009, 03:31 PM

I agree Richard.......landscapes with reflections is a must to get the best shots.

Geoff

Tormentil · #4 (**permalink**) 01-12-2009, 05:44 PM

As to arrky.....arcetec.....buildings, would a polariser eliminate reflections (if any) in windows?

Geoff F · #5 (**permalink**) 01-12-2009, 07:03 PM

So the alternative answer is:- Maybe.

I've carried a polarizer in my bag for years; but I rarely use it now. And the downside is that adding extra glass can reduce sharpness. Also, it means removing the UV filter, which has to be put somewhere safe, before screwing on the polariser. Then repeating the process afterwards.

So, if you have problems with reflections it might be worth a go, otherwise I wouldn't bother for 'normal' photography.

Boddie · #6 (**permalink**) 01-12-2009, 07:04 PM

Hey guys, as usual fantastic answers. You have made my mind up.

Now just to find the right one

Thanks

Andrew

Boddie · #7 (**permalink**) 01-12-2009, 07:31 PM

The big issue I am having is that I use the DMW-LW46 after a DMW-LA4 adapter.

Does the polarizer have to be infront of the lens or can it be between the lens and the adapter?

RichBrew · #8 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 06:05 PM

A polariser does not have to be in front of the lens to work - it just has to be in the light path. My 300mm f/2.8 Nikkor has a filter slot where a polarising filter can be inserted between the elements, not in front of them.
So long as the filter can be rotated to give the desired effect I can see no problems.

RichBrew

Boddie · #9 (**permalink**) 02-12-2009, 06:21 PM

Thanks kindly for that Rich.

Appreciate the answer

Boddie · #10 (**permalink**) 03-12-2009, 11:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RichBrew

A polariser does not have to be in front of the lens to work - it just has to be in the light path. My 300mm f/2.8 Nikkor has a filter slot where a polarising filter can be inserted between the elements, not in front of them.
So long as the filter can be rotated to give the desired effect I can see no problems.

RichBrew

With regards rotation - is the filter more filtered on one side then? By that I mean is it graduated?