The polarizing filter: deeper skies and clearer water

A circular polarizer is the one filter that cannot be replicated in editing. It removes reflections and glare by blocking polarized light.

What it does

• Deepens blue skies and makes clouds pop
• Removes reflections from water, revealing the bottom of shallow seas and cenotes
• Cuts glare on leaves, making greens richer
• Reduces reflections on windows and car paint

How to use it

Screw it onto the lens and rotate it while watching the effect. The strongest effect on the sky happens at 90 degrees to the sun: point your index finger at the sun and your thumb shows the direction of maximum polarization.

When to avoid it

• With ultra-wide lenses like a 14mm, the sky can look unevenly dark.
• When you want reflections, such as a building mirrored in a pool.
• In low light: it costs about 1.5 to 2 stops.

Real estate tip

A polarizer reduces glare on pools and windows for exterior property photos, making water look inviting and blue.