Stacking filters and question about Hoya CP

[orisky]

2 quick questions.

For those that use UV and CP's, do you stack them?

Secondly, I bought a Hoya Pro1 MC CP. I had a Hoya CP before and I never noticed the filter element rotates (independent of the threaded ring). Is this normal?

If you don't believe in the use of UV filters, no need to respond as this doesn't need to turn into a "why bother with UV filters" thread :)

[col4bin]

I only use UV filters when shooting in adverse conditions (i.e. in the desert with blowing sand, near the ocean with water spray). That said, when the situation presents iteself, I never stack filters. IMO, there is no need for the light to pass through multiple filters at a time (unless there is a specific effect you are going after).

It is normal for the filter element of a CP to rotate.

[neil_r]

Please do not take this the wrong way, but if you have to ask if it is normal for a CP filter to rotate then you have no idea how they work or how to use one. I would do some reading if I were you

[orisky]

Please do not take this the wrong way, but if you have to ask if it is normal for a CP filter to rotate then you have no idea how they work or how to use one. I would do some reading if I were you

I owned a CP before but I sold it over a year ago. I do not recall it rotating.

[SkipD]

NEVER stack filters unless there is a creative reason to do so (such as stacking two neutral density filters for more effect). Stacking filters is simply asking for problems such as flare in your images.

Polarizing filters must be aligned to the polarized light (from reflections, etc.) that you are trying to control in order to set the level of its effect. That's why they can be rotated. If you are using a polarizing filter, you must rotate it while looking through the viewfinder to align it to get the degree of effect that you want in your image. If you aim the camera in a different direction for a different shot, you'd need to re-adjust the filter again.

Make sure that you ALWAYS use the recommended (or supplied, in the case of Canon "L" lenses) lens hood for each and every lens that you own whenever the lens is out of the camera case.

[neil_r]

an extract from THIS (http://www.great-landscape-photography.com/polarizing-filter.html) site

How To Use A Polarizer
The effect of all types of polarizers is achieved by rotating the filter in relation to the scene. The screw-in types come in a rotating mount, while those for the Cokin system can be spun within the filter holder.

Before you start using your polarizing filter you need to check whether or not the front element of your lens moves when it focuses. If it doesn't you're in luck, as you can rotate the filter at any time and the effect will stay the same if you need to refocus. Many cheaper lenses aren't so forgiving though, and using a polarizing filter on a lens with a rotating front element takes a little more forethought. You'll need to set the focus before you start moving the filter - switching to manual focus can make it easier to keep the filter in the same position.

Whichever type of lens you have, you'll need to get used to seeing the effect of the filter as you change the orientation. The viewfinder can get dark with the filter in place making it hard to see the effect. You'll find it easier to see if you move the filter slowly and give your eye a chance to see the changes in the image. Look out for an increase in the contrast between the blue sky and clouds, and reflections on water disappearing.

[orisky]

Thanks for the info. The stacking filters thing is just laziness, but I get it now.

[Jon]

Stack filters - No.
Polarizers rotating - yes.