The Importance of Filters in Landscape Photography
Filters play a crucial role in enhancing the results of landscape photography. While some photographers may argue that post-processing tools in software like Lightroom and Photoshop can replicate the effects of filters, the truth is that certain filters cannot be simulated accurately. Additionally, using filters during photography allows for better results in post-processing. In this article, we will explore the significance of filters, their different types, and their impact on landscape photography.
The Benefits of a Polarizing Filter
A polarizing filter is an essential tool for landscape photographers. It is often the first filter they purchase to instantly improve their images. The main purpose of a polarizer is to reduce reflections and add vividness and contrast to pictures. When photographing objects like water and glass, the polarizer helps to eliminate unwanted reflections. Also, by darkening the sky and enhancing cloud details, it makes the scene appear more vibrant.
For lenses with a filter thread, a circular polarizing filter is recommended. These filters are easy to use – simply attach it to the lens and rotate it clockwise or counter-clockwise to adjust the polarization. The filter works by selectively blocking certain light waves while allowing others to pass through, which visually transforms the image. The effect of polarization cannot be reproduced accurately in post-processing, especially when it involves natural reflections. Take a look at the before/after images below to see the impact of a polarizing filter:
Image 1: Without a polarizing filter – reflections and lighter colors
Image 2: With a polarizing filter – saturated colors and no reflections
This is just one example of the transformative effect a polarizing filter can have on an image. If you want to explore more image samples and learn how to use a polarizing filter effectively, I highly recommend reading my article on “lens filters explained.”
Recommended Polarizing Filters
As a seasoned landscape photographer, I have used various filters throughout my career. Currently, I highly recommend the B W Circular Polarizing Filters and the Singh-Ray Warming Circular Polarizing Filter for their exceptional optical quality and slim design. These filters perform exceedingly well in the field and help minimize the risk of vignetting in the final images.
The Role of Neutral Density Filters in Long Exposure Photography
When capturing long exposure shots of running water or waterfalls, achieving that smooth and dreamy/foggy effect requires slowing down the shutter speed. In daylight conditions, simply adjusting the ISO and aperture may not sufficiently reduce the exposure. This is where a neutral density (ND) filter comes into play.
Neutral density filters effectively reduce the amount of light entering the lens, thereby increasing the exposure time. Similar to polarizing filters, the effect of an ND filter cannot be accurately reproduced in post-processing. Below is an example of an image captured with the help of an ND filter:
[Image: A photograph of a waterfall captured using an ND filter]
Various types of neutral density filters are available, each transmitting different amounts of light, quantified in F-stops. Among the filters I have used, the Singh-Ray Vari-ND Filter stands out as the best option. Its adjustable design allows for easy control of the amount of light passing through the lens by simply rotating the filter. However, it is important to note that this filter falls into a higher price range. For those seeking a lower-cost alternative, I recommend the B W 77mm 1.8 ND MRC filter, which provides excellent results.
Using Graduated Neutral Density Filters to Balance Exposure
Situations often arise where the brightness of the sky differs significantly from the brightness of the foreground or background. These scenarios call for the use of graduated neutral density (GND) filters to achieve a balanced exposure. Unlike circular filters, GND filters come in rectangular shapes and are typically used with a filter holder system. However, they can also be handheld.
Filter holder systems offer the advantage of stacking multiple filters and avoid alignment issues. However, they may introduce some vignetting concerns, especially when used with wide-angle lenses below 35mm focal lengths. Below is an image that displays the impact of using a 2-stop (0.6) GND filter to darken the sky:
[Image: A landscape photograph with a darkened sky achieved using a GND filter]
Multiple filter holder systems are available on the market, catering to both full-frame and cropped-sensor cameras. I used the Lee filter holder system extensively for many years, which served me well overall. However, after testing the NiSi filter holder system, I found it to be more user-friendly, especially when combined with a polarizing filter.
Types of Graduated Neutral Density Filters and Recommendations
There are different types of rectangular GND filters that cater to specific scenarios. These include soft-edge GND filters, hard-edge GND filters, and reverse GND filters, each with varying degrees of intensity. If you are unsure about which filter to choose, I highly recommend the 3-stop (0.9) soft-edge GND filter from Formatt-Hitech. With its versatility, this filter proves to be the most useful for landscape photography, especially when lighting conditions significantly differ between the sky and the foreground.
NiSi filters are known for their excellent performance. However, without proper maintenance, the coating on the glass surface can easily scratch. In this regard, I find Formatt-Hitech filters to be better suited for long-term use without risking damage to the coating.
Glass vs. Resin Filters: Optimal Image Quality
As demonstrated in my article on “glass vs. resin filters,” glass filters offer superior optical quality compared to their resin counterparts. There is a noticeable difference in sharpness when using glass filters, and color casts can be avoided by steering clear of resin filters. Therefore, for the best possible image quality, I personally recommend using glass filters.
Affordable Filter Holder Systems: Cokin P and Cokin X-Pro/Z-Pro
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Cokin filter holder systems are worth considering. Cokin offers three different sizes: A, P, and X-Pro/Z-Pro, ranging from small to large. If you opt for the Cokin P series, it is recommended to at least acquire the Cokin P filter holder. However, for full-frame cameras, using no less than the Cokin X-Pro/Z-Pro series is advised to prevent vignetting issues.
Cokin also provides affordable filter kits for both the Cokin P and Cokin X-Pro/Z-Pro series. However, it is important to note that these filters are made of resin. Therefore, if you wish to avoid unpleasant color casts, I recommend using graduated filters or employing other techniques to achieve balanced exposure.
Recreating Graduated Neutral Density Filter Effects in Post-Processing
Some photographers question whether the effects of graduated neutral density filters can be replicated in post-processing. The answer to this question is not straightforward and depends on various factors such as light intensity and the use of HDR or blending techniques.
In situations where the sky is not completely blown out, shooting in RAW allows for post-processing adjustments that can recover detailed information. Recovering up to two full stops of exposure is generally achievable. However, in scenarios where the sky is completely blown out, many photographers argue that bracketing shots and utilizing HDR and blending techniques can yield satisfactory results. Nonetheless, it is crucial to keep in mind that these methods may not always work effectively, particularly in windy conditions.
Personally, I prefer using filters during photography rather than relying on extensive post-processing efforts to recover blown out details. The time and effort spent on post-processing may not always produce realistic results, whereas using filters during photography ensures more accurate and natural-looking images. However, it is important to remember that every photographer may have different preferences and approaches to their craft.
In conclusion, filters are vital tools for landscape photographers, allowing them to capture stunning images with enhanced colors, reduced reflections, and balanced exposures. While software tools can mimic some filter effects, certain filters like polarizing and neutral density filters offer unique benefits that cannot be replicated in post-processing accurately. By investing in high-quality filters that match your specific needs and maintaining them properly, you can elevate your landscape photography to new heights.
The article is compiled and compiled by tipcamera.com
