Good filter for keeping skies from being over exposed?

13 years 2 months ago #51665 by Duorts
I've noticed that I'm getting a lot of over exposure from the bight (non-cloudy) skies in my city shots lately. I've been trying to get some shots of the skyscrapers in downtown Chicago but it always seems no matter how hard I try I get blown out skies.

I assume I need a filter. If so, what filter do I need?


,
13 years 2 months ago #51667 by lillton
ND filter...I think?:unsure:


,
13 years 2 months ago #51668 by Hoky Poke
Yes, typically you would use a split or graduated ND filter. The problem is that these filters have a straight line transition from light to dark...and if you are shooting a skyline type image, the filter might darken other parts of the image, besides the sky.


,
13 years 2 months ago #51669 by Duorts
Thanks guys...time to go shopping.


,
13 years 2 months ago #51861 by Baydream
A circular polarizing filter will darken the sky (by reducing glare) but not have as big an impact on the rest of the scene. To me, this is a "must-have" filter. I do also use graduated ND filters (both grey and blue).

Shoot, learn and share. It will make you a better photographer.
fineartamerica.com/profiles/john-g-schickler.html?tab=artwork

Photo Comments
,
13 years 2 months ago - 13 years 2 months ago #51900 by Screamin Scott
Go with the "Cokin" style square Grad ND's as they allow you to control where the effect starts . Circular Grad ND's are typically pretty much in one place & may not fit your composition.

Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

Photo Comments
,
13 years 2 months ago #51979 by Joves
Circular Polarizer for everyday use. You dial it in till you get the right amount of blue to it, you dont want to go too far as it will make the sky too blue and artifical looking. You can use the Graduated ND or straight ND but, it will always darken in the case of the ND. For the Graduated you need to meter from where the center of the ND is.


,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Sigma DP2 Quattro is a rare breed. It’s a large-sensor point-and-shoot camera with a 29MP sensor and a 30mm f/2.8 fixed lens. The question is, who is this camera for? Let’s find out!

Jul 17, 2024

I’ve been testing the Vanguard VEO 5 264CB-160S for several weeks now, and I have to say that my first impressions are nothing but good. Vanguard has knocked it out of the park yet again!

Jul 01, 2024

The Fujifilm X-H2s is Fuji’s flagship hybrid APS-C mirrorless camera. It launched in the summer of 2022 and has been impressing photographers and videographers alike ever since!

Jun 17, 2024

The Sony a9 III is a powerhouse professional-grade camera. The question is, should it be the next item in your camera bag? Find out if it’s worth the money in this comprehensive review!

Jun 09, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Latest Articles

The Canon EOS R1 was finally released last week, and the question is - does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in and explore firsthand what this camera does and doesn’t offer.

Jul 23, 2024

Improving your photography skills takes time, effort, and dedication. But with these unique exercises, you can make the process of becoming a better photographer more fun, too!

Jul 23, 2024

Night street photography is a fun pursuit with opportunities to develop your skills with portraiture, light trails, and architectural photography skills - and your nighttime photography skills, too!

Jul 22, 2024

The Canon EOS R5 Mark II has been unveiled, but it has a hefty price tag. If it’s out of your budget, the original Canon EOS R5 is a fantastic option. Learn more about it in this guide!

Jul 18, 2024

The Sigma DP2 Quattro is a rare breed. It’s a large-sensor point-and-shoot camera with a 29MP sensor and a 30mm f/2.8 fixed lens. The question is, who is this camera for? Let’s find out!

Jul 17, 2024

You need to try unique newborn photography ideas from time to time to keep your inspiration levels up. With the ideas in this guide, you can do just that!

Jul 17, 2024

What is the best landscape lens for photography - a prime or a zoom? The answer is a little murky, as it depends on the specific situation. Learn more about these lenses in this detailed guide!

Jul 16, 2024

Lightning photography is a tricky beast, but with the right tips, tricks, and tools, you can make the most of the next storm that rolls through. Learn some essential techniques in this guide!

Jul 16, 2024