Why You Need A Circular Polarising Filter & How To Use One

Photoshop and other powerful photo editing software has made some photographers think that filters aren't something they need to attach to lenses anymore. However, there are some effects which still look better when created in the real world with the help of a filter. Plus, by creating the desired effect in-camera, you also save time and it's often easier to achieve the look you're after. (We actually have an interesting article that covers the debate of Physical Filters Vs Photoshop that's well worth a peruse.)

Yes, you can use saturation tools to make skies 'pop' but if you attach a circular polarising filter to the front of your lens, you can see just how deeper the sky looks and how it balances with the landscape which means you can perfect your shot without turning your computer on. 

We've used the circular polarising filter as an example as this is the filter Jon Adams is talking about in the above video. When you hit 'play' on the tutorial, you'll hear Jon talk through the benefits of using polarising filters, why spending a little bit more money on filters is a worth-while investment and he also gives a little step-by-step advice on capturing a landscape scene. 

Enjoy the video and for more information on Hoya filters, take a look at our filter guide section. We also have a tutorial from Photographer Andrew James on using the Hoya ND1000 Filter should you wish to learn a little more about the power of ND filters.