Should I choose a linear or circular polarizer for DSLR use and for a DIY variable ND setup?
Asked 10/17/2010
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I’m looking for a linear polarizer mainly to experiment with a low-cost variable ND setup by stacking polarizers, and also because linear polarizers are often cheaper than circular ones. I’ve heard some claims that certain cameras may meter or autofocus fine with a linear polarizer, but I’m unsure how reliable that is. Are there meaningful quality differences between linear polarizers from different brands, and is a linear polarizer a sensible choice for DSLR shooting?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
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As I noted in comments, I think that you can generally expect that a company that makes a good circular polarizer will like also make a good linear one. However, if the purpose is to reduce cost, because of different lenses (now and in the future), then there is an alternative option: Lee Filters or the Cokin P Series.
In a nutshell, these are square/rectangular filter systems that you purchase an inexpensive filter holder that slides onto diameter adapters (also quite inexpensive) and then slide filters into the adapter. Most, as I noted, are rectangular except for the polarizers. These are round and fit into a special slot on the holder and then you adjust as normal. The polarizer is large enough to handle lens diameters specified by the chosen system and so you can get quite a range (I'm ranging from 49mm to 77mm with one polarizer).
In terms of quality, Lee is generally regarded to be better than Cokin, but is also more expensive. Cokin is, however, decent and may not only cover your needs well, but may be easier to find. Either way, I literally saved close to a $1000 on circular polarizers and other filters by going this route.
The final upside is that you can get a lot of other filters, such as ND, graduated ND, and more and use them on your lens collection. Saves a lot of dough and there are third party makers of these filters for the two systems.
Originally by user472. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user472
15y ago
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For DSLR use, a circular polarizer is generally the safer choice. DSLR phase-detect autofocus systems use mirrors/prisms that are polarization-sensitive, so a linear polarizer can interfere with AF and sometimes metering. A circular polarizer is designed to avoid that issue.
If your goal is experimenting with a cheap variable ND, a linear polarizer can still make sense for that specific purpose. In terms of quality, linear polarizers are less commonly compared in detailed tests, and many brands seem to offer only one main linear model. As a rule of thumb, brands known for good circular polarizers often also make decent linear ones. Mid-range multi-coated glass options are often a sensible balance over the very cheapest filters.
If cost across multiple lens sizes is the main concern, consider a square filter system like Lee or Cokin with adapter rings, which can be more economical than buying separate screw-in filters for every lens diameter.
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