In my first article regarding lens filters I gave a brief overview of what each kind of lens could be used for and when to use them. Here I have given a more detailed explanation of each lens.
From Star filters to ND Grads and Polarizers to Colour filters, they are all here…
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ND (Neutral Density) Filter
I have previously written an article specifically regarding ND filters.
A neutral density filter reduces light of wavelengths or colors equally (and therefore do not effect the colour of the finished photo) that enter the lens. The purpose of a neutral density filters is to allow the photographer greater flexibility to change the aperture or exposure time, allowing for more control, particularly in extreme circumstances.
When using this type of filter during the day the shutter speed can be reduced or a larger aperture used where normally the photo would be overexposed. Examples of images that can be achieved using an ND filter are below;
- By tricky ™
- By Steve Crane
- By squarewithin
ND filters can be purchased at different ‘grades’ these signify the shade of the filter, from very slightly tinted to almost black in appearance (the higher the number the stronger the filter and the less light it allows through to the lens). Using these different grades allows you to choose the correct filter for the correct condition.
ND Graduated Filter
Similar to the above Neutral Density filter however the shade is graduated across half of the filter. This allows you to either darken, for example, the sky to enhance the ‘blueness’ or if you have a scene where there is a dark area that you need to expose for longer than another part of the scene this filter will allow you to achieve this.
If you have a Cokin fitment then this also allows you to swivel the filter for all scenarios.
- By Chris Gin
- By Chris Gin
- By aperture7.1
Star Filter
As the name suggests, a Star filter or ‘Cross Screen’ filter creates points of light which emanate from light sources in the scene you are capturing. This is achieved by fine grooves in the filter which diffract the light. Star filter are available in different types depending on how may light points you would like the filter to produce.
Longer exposures produce a greater overall effect but work well using normal exposures too.
- By Sharon Taylor Photography of Kettering
- By Amir Zamani
- By ClifB
Polarizer Filter
Using a polarizing filter will enable you to reduce or increase the amount of reflection in surfaces such as water or glass, this works by filtering out light polarized perpendicularly to the axis of the filter. This is great if the subject of your photo is the reflection itself or if you want the photograph to capture something either behind glass or in water. This water also has the effect of darkening the sky and giving it a deeper blue colour (again this is controllable). The effects of controlling polarization at the time of exposure by using a filter cannot be replicated in software such as Photoshop etc.
- By mugley
- By vabellon
- By mikebaird (without Filter)
- By mikebaird (with Filter)
Colour Filter
Colour filter, as the name suggests will tint the image to whatever colour you have purchased the filter in. These come in all colours and also in a graduated version. Examples are using a blue graduated colour filter to enhance the colour in the sky, using a yellow filter for a sunset shot etc etc.
You can also mix the filters (Cokin P type) and have up to 3 in the holder for enhancing different colours in one scene. I have previously written a post called ‘Understanding Colour In Photography’ regarding colour which can be found here.
- By svenwerk
- By ecstaticist
- By ecstaticist
Radial Zoom Filter
This filter creates an effect where the centre of the image is clear and the light circulates outwards to the edge of the image. I have used this filter occassionally for nightclub and DJ shots as it is quite a strong effect.
UV Filter
UV filters block ultra violet light from entering the lens. For most shots there is no obvious effect caused by the filter on the photo however the filter can reduce haziness in long distance shots etc. As the effect of the filter is usually un-noticable many photogrpahers (including myself) use this filter as a guard and have it attached to the lens constantly.
Infrared Filter
Infrared filters allow infrared light to pass through the lens and block visible and ultraviolet light. The effect is almost like a negative but different effects can be achieved through different camera settings and post processing.
I have previously written a basic infrared tutorial which explains the process I went through to take and process an infrared image.
- By Werner Kunz (werkunz1)
- By Werner Kunz (werkunz1)
- By Bill Gracey
Rainbow Filter
A Rainbow filter will actually artificially create a rainbow on the image which apparently looks as real as a natural rainbow!?
Light Diffuser Filter
This filter is often used in portrait and wedding photography as it creates a more ‘dreamy’ effect and softens the image and subject. It can also reduce contrast within the photograph.
- By oaspetele_de_piatra
- By Piulet
- By rachel sian
Split Field Filter
This filter allows you to focus on a subject that is very close to the camera without losing the sharpness of the background.
- By code poet
Preview image by Lugenbeal
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