A Classic Example Of Why You Don't Use A Polarizing Filter With A Wide Angle Lens

This is what you can get if you fully polarize a wide angle image. (click to enlarge)
Nikon D700; 24-70mm f/2.8 lens @ 24mm; 1/160th sec. @ f/11; ISO 400

Here is an example of why you must think before using a polarizing filter with a wide angle lens.  Notice the sky.   Enough said.

I'm sure all of you know that maximum polarization occurs at a 90 degree angle from the sun and little or no polarization occurs facing the sun or facing 180 degrees away from the sun.  As you move toward or away from the direction of maximum polarization, the amount of polarization of the light gradually changes.  With a wide angle lens, you take in the entire gradual increase and decrease of the polarization effect.  The result is ugly, uneven polarization that ruin the sky.

When I made this image 'I knew better.'  Just another mistake that even seasoned photographers can make if one is not thinking.

Lesson learned:  Think!

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Thanks for looking. Enjoy!  

Dennis A. Mook  

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