Camera filters are a way to add more color and life to your photograph. In situations and cases where in the natural look of the image does appear pleasing, the creative use of the right type of filter can help create more drama to your image. This technique is different from using photo editing software. By definition, a filter is a piece of translucent glass which alters how the light enters the camera lens. It does not change any other aspect of the image, retaining much of the image’s message. There are several types of these special camera glasses you can use, depending on the effect you wish to achieve. Read on to learn more about some of the more popular types and tips on how to choose a filter.

There are three types of protective filters: the UV filter, sky and clear protector. Attached to the camera lens, such types work as lens protectors. If the camera is dropped accidentally, it is the filter which shatters and not the camera lens. A UV filter is used to reduce the amount of haze and ultraviolet light in an image. The sky filter is useful in making skin tone appear warmer. This type of filter also reduces the amount of reflection produced by nearby objects. Haze or clear protectors help protect the lens from scratches and dirt while reducing the amount of haze in an image. To differentiate between the three types, a UV filter is made from clear glass. On the other hand, skylights have a pink tone while a haze filter has a more yellow tint to it.

A polarizing filter is useful in reducing glare and the amount of reflection produced by reflective surfaces such as glass and water. Landscape photographers use polarizers to make skies bluer while reducing the contrast between the sky and land. Polarizing filters often have two separate rings. The filter is attached to the camera through the first ring while the second ring allows the photographer to control the intensity of filter.

Another popular type of filter is known as the neutral density or an ND filter. This type of filter lessens the amount of light that reaches the camera’s lens without altering the colors. An ND filter is useful when shooting in extremely bright locations and situations, reducing the chances of producing a washed out image. It is also useful in blurring movement and making water flow appear smoother, as in the case of photographing ebbs and waves or a waterfall.

Camera filters can be purchased from local photography shops or online. Local shops are preferred over online types as it allows photographers to physically inspect and test the filter before purchasing. Photographers are advised to bring their camera to the shop or test the filter with a similar model to ensure that it will fit perfectly. Personally testing the filters on an actual camera will also allow you to determine the right camera settings to use with the filter such as the exposure, shutter speed or white balance. Before heading for the nearest shop or going online, check the barrel of your lens to determine the filter size. This will be indicated by a symbol of a circle with a line going through it. The number immediately next to it is the filter size.

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