Polarizing filter vs Lightroom processing: I'm interested in your opinions regarding the need for a polarizing filter (on my new lens) as opposed to processing pics without the filter...

Ugly Hedgehog - Photography Forum

Home Active Topics Newest Pictures Search Login Register ☰

Polarizing filter vs Lightroom processing

Page 1 of 3 next> last>>

Jun 17, 2015 07:42:18 #

bbrowner Loc: Chapel Hill, NC

I'm interested in your opinions regarding the need for a polarizing filter (on my new lens) as opposed to processing pics without the filter using Lightroom CC.

Thanks

Jun 17, 2015 07:46:13 #

ottopj Loc: Annapolis, MD USA

See what you think after you process. If you like it you're all set. If you don't try a filter and compare.

You've go to please you.

Jun 17, 2015 07:58:48 #

nikon_jon Loc: Northeast Arkansas

I am a staunch advocate for doing it (anything for that matter) in the camera. I use photo editing software only for things I would have done in a darkroom. Mostly tweaking contrast and color if needed.

Jun 17, 2015 08:01:22 #

ottopj Loc: Annapolis, MD USA

nikon_jon wrote:

I think it would be quite entertaining to see you having sex (doing it) in the camera!

Jun 17, 2015 08:10:29 #

zigipha Loc: north nj

I think it would be quite difficult to get the same affect of a polarizing filter using post processing...what was your plan?

Jun 17, 2015 08:21:06 #

minniev Loc: MIssissippi

bbrowner wrote:

I'm interested in your opinions regarding the need for a polarizing filter (on my new lens) as opposed to processing pics without the filter using Lightroom CC.

Thanks

Some of the reasons we use polarizer filters can't be duplicated in post processing, such as cutting down on reflections on water, foliage, windows. Other effects such as darkening blue skies CAN be emulated in post processing and often more evenly. So it depends on what you are trying to accomplish. I always keep a polarizer in my travel bag for those things that PP cannot do.

Jun 17, 2015 08:23:14 #

bbrowner Loc: Chapel Hill, NC

More info re: my question...

Just got a Tamron 16-300. If can get the same result by processing w/Lightroom CC... I could get a (less expensive) UV/Protection filter rather than a more expensive Polarizing filter. so basically... might Lightroom simply duplicate the Polarizing filter?

That's why I asked.

Thanks

Jun 17, 2015 08:26:09 #

dcampbell52 Loc: Clearwater Fl

bbrowner wrote:

I'm interested in your opinions regarding the need for a polarizing filter (on my new lens) as opposed to processing pics without the filter using Lightroom CC.

Thanks

I use a circular polarizer to eliminate reflections in water, which allows me to (in essence) see through the water to get a photo of the fish, turtle, etc. in the water. LR post processing filtering, while good, will not do the same way.

sorry for the additional post below... wanted to add the second photo and forgot to use the add lol.

Turtle, circular polarizer on lens adjusted to kill sun comng from upper left

(Download)

Jun 17, 2015 08:35:22 #

dcampbell52 Loc: Clearwater Fl

bbrowner wrote:

I'm interested in your opinions regarding the need for a polarizing filter (on my new lens) as opposed to processing pics without the filter using Lightroom CC.

Thanks

I use a circular polarizer to eliminate reflections in water, which allows me to (in essence) see through the water to get a photo of the fish, turtle, etc. in the water. LR post processing filtering, while good, will not do the same way.
The data that would have been blown out by the sun's refection on the water in the left of the shot, could not have easily been recovered in LR post processing.
Having said this, your post processing may be better than mine or you may have learned tricks using the circular polarizer in LR that I haven't mastered yet. LR is a great program and there is much that I am still learning. By the way, I love playing with the new Dehazing slider in the Effects group for some things... It is in the latest version of LRCC (6.1) just got it yesterday and am still playing with it.

similar shot without polarizer (this one was workable )

(Download)

Jun 17, 2015 17:01:19 #

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

bbrowner wrote:

I'm interested in your opinions regarding the need for a polarizing filter (on my new lens) as opposed to processing pics without the filter using Lightroom CC.

Thanks

for color saturation - similar results. For reflection control - there is no substitute for a CPL.

Jun 17, 2015 17:13:39 #

Vick I Loc: Texas

bbrowner wrote:

I'm interested in your opinions regarding the need for a polarizing filter (on my new lens) as opposed to processing pics without the filter using Lightroom CC.

Thanks

If you buy a polarizer, be sure you get a circular polarizer. Linear won't do the same job for you. Do you like your Tamron 16-300? I'm thinking seriously of getting one myself.

Jun 17, 2015 17:21:17 #

bbrowner Loc: Chapel Hill, NC

VICK 1

Thanks for your reply.

Re: Tamron 16-300... I bought it and tried it out a bit. Seems good. But it won't be mine till July 3rd when my wife gives it to me for out 50th anniversary. Same goes for her diamond earings!!!

Barry

Jun 17, 2015 17:23:41 #

Vick I Loc: Texas

bbrowner wrote:

Awwww...congratulations in advance, in case I forget it on July 3. World champion lovers, as Paul Harvey would have said :)

Jun 17, 2015 21:18:43 #

Mr PC Loc: Austin, TX

Just got a CPF and I can cut reflections on still water to reveal what's below. I love Lightroom and use it all the time for many things that ND and other filters are used for. I can't duplicate the richer colors, bluer skies or the removal of reflections any easier than using the filter when called for. With that said, I do a lot of wildlife and birds in flight and the CPF cuts down on the light too much for that, so I select when to use it. Also, no filters on the end of my Sigma 18-300, I use a hood for protection and have never had a problem. Why put extra glass over a good lens if it can be avoided? Good luck with that Tamron, a very nice lens.

Jun 18, 2015 05:45:58 #

sueyeisert Loc: New Jersey

You can't get the same results in Lightroom as you get with a polarizer.

bbrowner wrote:

I'm interested in your opinions regarding the need for a polarizing filter (on my new lens) as opposed to processing pics without the filter using Lightroom CC.

Thanks

Page 1 of 3 next> last>>

If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.

Main Photography Discussion

Home | Latest Digest | Back to Top | All Sections

UglyHedgehog.com - Forum