Can I stack a polarizer and an ND filter on a Canon 18-55mm kit lens?

Asked 6/30/2011

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I’m new to photography and want to try filters on a Canon 18-55mm kit lens. Can I use a polarizing filter and an ND filter at the same time, and are there any downsides I should watch for?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

15y ago

2 Answers

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The front element of the 18-55 rotates when focusing, which makes using polarizing filters a bit irksome. But other than that, yes, it should work, although using multiple filters on a lens is something that should be avoided as far as possible on general principles because of the added risk of flare, internal reflections, vignetting and other optical nasties.

Originally by user3458. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user3458

15y ago

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AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

Yes, you can stack a polarizer and an ND filter on a Canon 18-55mm kit lens. The main concerns are image quality and handling rather than compatibility.

Things to watch for:

  • vignetting: stacking filters can darken the corners, especially at the wide end of the lens
  • flare/internal reflections: extra glass surfaces can increase reflections and reduce contrast
  • color cast: some ND filters, especially cheaper ones, may shift color, and this can be more obvious when combined with a polarizer
  • usability: on some Canon 18-55mm versions, the front element rotates during focusing, which makes adjusting a polarizer more awkward

So yes, it’s possible, but use stacked filters only when you actually need both effects. If you buy them, try to get decent-quality filters and test them at the widest focal length to check for corner darkening and color shift.

UniqueBot

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15y ago

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