SLR Geek

The easiest choice may be choosing between a circular or linear polarizer. Circular polarizers are designed to work with TTL or auto-focusing systems found in most modern SLR and DSLR cameras. Linear polarizers have their uses, but they are manufactured differently and may not work with your camera. Unless you are a hundred percent certain, a circular polarizing filter is most likely the right choice. Since this is the most common type of polarizer sold, it’s even possible no thought has even been given on this subject.

With the introduction of DSLRs, the filter industry has been shifting their marketing efforts to digital photographers. Digital filters including circular polarizers are becoming common on the market. I am not sure what coating applications makes a filter lens better for digital as opposed to film. If you shoot digital and the cost is negligible, go for the digital version. I bought my polarizer before digital polarizers were available and have no problems with it using a Canon 40D Digital. I suspect this is more about marketing than results.

When it comes to filters, most often you get what you pay for. Does that mean you should purchase the most expensive version on the market? Of course not! Reputable manufacturers like Hoya tend to have several quality lines to choose from. The main differences between the lines are the filter coatings. Hoya’s Pro1 version has seven layers of multi-coating applied to the rear surface to eliminate internal reflections and ghosting. Compare this to Hoya’s standard line which includes one layer of anti-reflective coating. Typically with well known manufacturers, more coats results in a better filter, but also cost more. I would recommend purchasing a high quality multicoated filter if your budget allows. Just make sure it is neutral color balanced.

When it comes to choosing the right polarizing filter, consider the options in this article. Common options include, linear vs. circular, film or digital versions, or quality vs. price. Beyond these, there are other options each manufacture promotes. Best of luck and happy shooting.