Semi-Newbie Filter Question

[ghostowl]

Hi Everyone!

I'm brand new to this forum, and so excited to have found it! I've got a Canon Digital Rebel and a Digital Rebel Xti that I just purchased. I have a question about neutral density filters versus circular polarizing filters. I have both. I know that the polarizer cuts down on reflection/glare, while the neutral density filter reduces light coming into the lens. I assume the polarizer also reduces light coming into the lens because of its dark color. Are the two basically interchangeable, or will the ND filter not remove glare from water surfaces the way the polarizer does?

Thanks,
Ghostowl

[Cody21]

Correct ... the polarizing effect is different than the ND filter - which primarily just allows you to shoot in harsh light while at the same time bring the ability to step down on aperature, shutter, and ISO. You'll also probably find that you'll lose a stop or so of light using a CPL.

[argyle]

Are the two basically interchangeable, or will the ND filter not remove glare from water surfaces the way the polarizer does?

Thanks,
Ghostowl

They're interchangeable to the extent that, in a pinch, you can use the CPL as a 2-stop neutral density filter. A CPL can do what an ND filter can do, but an ND can't do what a CPL can do.

[ghostowl]

Thanks Cody & Argyle - that clears it up quite well!

Do either of you carry multiple ND filters? I bought the Tiffen .6 - but since on the digital I can step exposure down (if that is the right way of putting it), is it necessary?

Thanks again!
~G~

[Cody21]

I only have 1 ND filter ... a 3x (3-stop). Where it comes in handy is when I want to shoot in very bright light but at the same time want to have a slow shutter speed (e.g., to capture the silkiness of a water fall). I actually want to get a GND so that I can better balance lighting between say a bright sky against a darker groound - to prevent a blown-out (overexposed) sky.