Does the order of a polarizer and ND filter matter when stacking them?
Asked 7/12/2021
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2 answers
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I use a Sony a6500 with a Sigma 16mm f/1.4 and want to stack a 6-stop ND filter with a circular polarizer. Is there any optical difference between putting the ND closer to the lens and the polarizer on the outside, versus the other way around? Are there any drawbacks to having light pass through the polarizer first and then the ND?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
4y ago
2 Answers
1
Try it both ways and see what happens. Maybe it is different one way from the other. Now you have two possibilities to create a picture you want. Or maybe it doesn't make a difference in a way that matters to you.
The most likely way it will make a difference is mechanically.
One way is probably a little easier in terms of making photographs than the other. Maybe it is easier to turn the polarizer if it is first. Maybe it is easier to turn if it is second.
Maybe it is easier to compose and set exposure with one filter on. (or maybe not).
The right way is the way that works for you. Not what someone on the internet says...well except for this of course.
Originally by user95237. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user95237
4y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
In normal use, the order of a standard ND filter and a circular polarizer usually does not make a meaningful optical difference. You can stack them either way.
The more practical differences are:
- A polarizer also reduces light, often around 1–2 stops.
- Stacking filters adds more glass, which can slightly reduce image quality, especially with lower-quality filters.
- Handling matters: it may be easier to rotate the polarizer when it is the outermost filter.
- Workflow matters: depending on the order, composing or setting exposure may feel easier for you.
So the main downside is not the light passing through one first, but the added glass and possible inconvenience. In practice, many photographers stack ND and polarizer filters successfully.
A good rule: use the arrangement that lets you operate the polarizer comfortably and gives you the easiest shooting experience.
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