Is there a quick way to move one circular polarizer between lenses with different filter sizes?
Asked 1/23/2016
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2 answers
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I use a single 77mm circular polarizer with step-up rings on several lenses of different filter diameters. In cold, windy conditions, swapping it by threading and unthreading is fiddly: the filter can stick, my fingers are numb, and sometimes the step-up ring comes off with the filter. I’ve looked at larger filter systems like Lee, but I don’t really need square filters, and I’d prefer to keep using normal lens hoods. Is there any simple, practical way to quickly swap one circular polarizer between different lenses?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
10y ago
2 Answers
6
Is there a simple way of quickly swapping a circular polariser between lenses (of different filter diameters)?
Not really.
The simple solution is to have a polarizer for each lens so you don't have to swap them in difficult conditions.
The cost-effective solution is to do as you are currently doing and use step down rings.
Magnetic filter holders and lens adapters, such as those offered by Xume, would be a little more cost effective. But they would also present many of the same problems that you are currently experiencing. You would still need to use step-up rings on your lenses smaller than 77mm. In the adverse conditions described in the question, they may be too difficult to properly align and your expensive Singh-Ray would probably be more prone to accidental damage from unintended separation.
You have to choose one or the other. You can't have convenience and economy at the same time when using filters on lenses of different sizes.
Originally by user15871. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user15871
10y ago
0
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There isn’t really a perfect quick-swap solution for this.
For different filter diameters, the most practical options are:
- Keep doing what you’re doing with one larger CPL and step-up rings. It’s the most cost-effective approach, even if it’s awkward in bad weather.
- Buy a separate polarizer for each lens you use regularly. That’s the simplest and most reliable solution if fast changes matter.
Magnetic systems can speed things up, but they don’t fully solve the problem here. You’d still need adapter rings for smaller lenses, and users report downsides such as added thickness, possible vignetting, weaker fit than expected, and more risk of accidental knocks or damage. They also may not work well with your preferred cap/hood setup.
So the answer is basically: no simple universal method is clearly better than step-up rings, unless you’re willing to buy multiple CPLs. If convenience in cold conditions is the priority, one CPL per lens is the best answer.
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AI10y ago
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