If you are only going to have one filter in your camera bag - make it a polarized one.

The Polorized filter is like the lucky packet of filters as it has so many positive effects on your images.

What does it do?

Ups the contrast: a picture of a blue sky with white clouds will have more contrast and the sky will become brighter blue allowing the clouds to stand out more.

Reflections: the Polarized filter clears away reflections in water and on glass or other reflective surfaces. This makes taking a photograph through a window much clearer. By removing reflections on water you are allowing the ducks on the water or the trees around the water to stand out more vividly.

Colour: by reducing the reflection off surfaces like leaves the Polarized filter allows the colour of the object to stand out with more saturation.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Polarizing filter absorbs light, so be aware of that when setting up for indoor shots or low light photography, sometimes it is best to just remove the filter for these shots.

How to use your Polarized filter

You simply screw the filter onto the front of your lens (making sure you have purchase the correct diameter). Auto Focus cameras will need a rotating Polarized filter. Once you are set up, to test it out, point the camera at a window that you can clearly see a reflection in. Slowly spin the Polarized filter in either direction and watch as the reflection disappears.
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When you are taking photos out doors, the position of the sun is important. The polarized filter won’t work with the sun directly infront of you. It’s best to keep it at a 90 degree angle.

View pricing and availability of the Polarized Filters»

Make sure to get the right size filter for your camera.