Page 130 - (DK) Advanced Photography Guide

128 EXPLAINING | EFFECTS FILTERS

USING EFFECTS FILTERS

Filters can do more than just control exposure; with which you can add color to selected
they can also be used to create visual effects areas of a photo, and soft-focus filters that
that are not normally seen by the human eye. create a diffuse, romantic effect. Applying
These effects can be subtle or dramatic. The effects filters with careful thought can make
handiest effects filter—one that you can use on the difference between a good photo and
a daily basis both in the studio and outdoors— a great one. However, be aware that once a
is the polarizing filter. It can reduce or eliminate photo has been shot it is impossible to undo
reflections on nonmetallic surfaces and the filter’s effect. You may also find that
deepen the blue of the sky. Other helpful overuse of these filters can make your
effects filters are colored, graduated filters, photos look formulaic.

SKYLIGHT AND UV FILTERS POLARIZING FILTER

These two filters absorb UV light, which helps reduce the Polarizing filters have two common uses: to deepen the blue of
effect of atmospheric haze on your photos. They also skies, and to reduce glare and the intensity of reflections from
reduce the blue cast caused by UV light at high altitudes. nonmetallic surfaces. The strength of these effects is adjusted
Skylight filters are a warm pink, and are available in two by turning a ring on the front of the polarizing filter. Linear
strengths: 1A and 1B. 1B adds the most warmth to an image polarizers can affect the focusing and exposure accuracy of
(this warmth will be lost if Auto White Balance is selected). modern digital cameras and are more suited to film cameras.
UV filters are completely transparent and do not have Circular polarizers can be used with any type of camera. A
any effect on exposure. polarizing filter can also be used as a 2-stop neutral density filter.
BEST FOR BEST FOR

◾ ◾ Reducing the effects of atmospheric haze ◾ ◾ Making water look more transparent
◾ ◾ Shooting in snow and ice ◾ ◾ Reducing glare on shiny, nonmetallic surfaces
◾ ◾ Adding depth to sunny skies

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