Customer Reviews

Canon PL-C 72mm Circular Polarizer

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Polarizing filters are used to eliminate glare on non-metallic surfaces like glass or water. They can also be used to increase the contrast and color saturation of your image. I use my polarizer not only to eliminate glare, but also to make skies a nice shade of blue or to get some "pop" out of clouds.

There are so many options to consider when purchasing the Polarizing filter for your needs. For instance, linear vs. circular, film or digital versions, or quality vs. price.

If you are making use of a TTL or auto-focusing system, Circular Polarizers are designed to work with those features. Linear Polarizers has their uses, but they are manufactured differently and may not work. Unless you are certain, just get a Circular Polarizing filter.

There are some digital circular polarizers on the market. I am not sure what makes a cir-pl lens better for digital as opposed to film. I use a Canon 20D Digital SLR and see no problems caused by using a supposed non-digital filter on a digital camera.

Most of the time, when it comes to filters; you get what you pay for. Does that mean you need an expensive polarizer? Of course not, just be sure to get the right filter for your needs. What ever polarizing filter you get, make sure it is color neutral to prevent unwanted tinting. Spending more on a color balanced filter will save time in post. If you need multiple filter sizes, consider saving money by using step down rings.

Currently I use the Hoya Pro1 filters, as the Canon polarizing filters I previously owned were without question bulkier and heavier. The weight might not seem like much, but when you stick all your items in a backpack all the extra bits of weight add up quickly. I can spend a good amount of time with my equipment on my back so this is a big concern for me. When it came down to the images, at times I would see a browning tint on my photos. The tint is easy to clean up in Photoshop CS2, but I don't see that problem with the Hoya Pro1 filter.

Overall, I would recommend against the Canon polarizing filters. I originally thought, "it is Canon, it must be quality." Since then I have replaced all my Canon filters. This filter works, but comes at a cost of disadvantages to other similarly priced filters. Consider spending the extra money for the Hoya 72mm Super-HMC Circular Polarizer Multi Coated Pro 1 Extra Thin Glass Filter instead.

PROS:
Can be used for film or digital cameras
Eliminates internal reflections and ghosting

CONS:
Bulky and heavy
Not neutral color balanced

Great glass BUT it cannot accommodate a lens cap - so keep a hood on (hard if you have large fingers and are using the Canon) or run the risk of scratching it.

What is Canon thinking? Buy an nice-expensive Circular Polarizer, mount it on my lens and then find the lens cap won't fit (no threads in the front of the filter). I will return this item and search for another.

I mainly use this when taking landscape shots where I want to either make the clouds pop or liven the sky up some (remember it works best 90 degrees from the sun.) I also put it on when shooting highly reflective vegetation or waterscapes that would otherwise cause blown-out highlights. One other little secrete is to use this when shooting waterfalls since it will allow you to shoot at slower shutter speeds thus increasing the wispy waterfall look.

I am not sure what makes this so expensive but I guess there has to be a reason. I bought this for my Canon SLR and it has been a life saver when taking pictures at the beach in bright sun. It works great and the pictures come out cool and crisp.

Good quality and easy to use. A must have for those 'certain' lighting conditions. Especially useful when shooting cars or through glass. I do not keep this filter on my lens full time as I opt for clear UV filters for daily use but great to have when you need it.