Landscape photography

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Allanp

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Allan
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I have a Nikon D3100 and starting to use it when out hill walking. Now I still currently use the landscape setting on camera as I am not fully sure on how to use manual. But I have heard I would be better to use a circular polarize lens. What would be the reason for that and any recommendations?

Thanks
 
Without circular polariser, this shot won't have as nice colours:

8063343590_7296005ea8_c.jpg

Tower bridge by wuyanxu, on Flickr


You want CPL (circular polariser) filter, not the lens. CPL filters cut down glare, it basically makes glass greener, sky bluer and water more or less see through.


I recommend B+W filters as they are the best quality, failing that, get Hoya HD or Pro1 filters.
 
Looking at getting a 72mm polariser for my 150 macro ti cut out glare and reflection. Those B+W ones are mad expensive! Think I'll go Hoya.
 
Allanp said:
I have a Nikon D3100 and starting to use it when out hill walking. Now I still currently use the landscape setting on camera as I am not fully sure on how to use manual. But I have heard I would be better to use a circular polarize lens. What would be the reason for that and any recommendations?

Thanks
Click to expand...

Yes, polarising filters are great for landscapes. The 'circular' bit refers to the optical construction and not the fact that they're usually round.

A polariser cuts polarised light. Light from a clear blue sky is polarised and a CPL can darken that substantially when the angles are right, but not at all when the angles are wrong, or if it's overcast (because the atmosphere de-polarises the light).

Reflected light is also polarised and again when the angles are right, a polarising filter can remove reflections completely, eg from glass or water. The critical angle is between 30-40 degrees to the surface (Brewster's Angle). Polarisers work well on grass and foliage, making it darker and richer, because there are always some leaves or blades of grass that just happen to fall at the right angle.

Polarisers are all about angles - angles to the subject, and angle of rotation. Sometimes the effect is dramatic, sometimes barely noticeable, but usually beneficial in some way. Very easy, just rotate it and watch the image change.
 
Thanks for the advice and information. Will see what size my lens is later and order a polarized one. Thanks
 
Quick way to check: it'll tell you the size on the back of the lens cap ;)
 
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