Polarizing filters are little lenses than can create a lot of magic. Basically what they do is change the way your camera sees light. This can cause tremendous impact on the vibrance of colors. Skies can to either have a very contrasty, deep blue tone or an opposite, pale shade of blue. They are extremely powerful tools against reflections and they are one of the few filters the effect of which cannot be reproduced by editing software. When shooting a photo of a water surface, the filter can be adjusted so that it cuts glare and allows you to see through. The same applies when shooting through glass. Without a filter , it’s virtually impossible to avoid reflections.

They work by rotating the polarizer ring around the filter, according to direct sunlight. To achieve maximum effect , the filter must be positioned perpendicular to the direction of the sun. For a less pronounced polarizing effect, shift the angle of maximum effect slightly towards, or away from the sun.

Some filters are better than others. There are a some specifications to look for. The number of coating layers is one. The glass is treated with special substances that give it the ability to reduce glare. The more layers there are, the better. A thinner filter is preferable to a thicker one , as you will be adding weight to the front of your lens ( I assume you already have a quality UV mounted on it ).

Here are our top 5 recommendations:

• Marumi DHG Super Circular Polarizer
• B+W 67mm Kaesemann Circular Polarizer
• Hoya Circular polarizing filter
• Tiffen Circular polairezer
• Cokin 77mm Pure Harmonie Super Slim Circular Polarizer

Image credit: soleg / 123RF Stock Photo