I believe there has always been a debate between various factions of photographers, some in Siouxland as well, about whether one should use a polarizing filter on lenses when taking photos. I myself waffle back and forth. Those times I use it, I like the extreme saturation, and almost too dark images that are created. Other times I might go months without using it. And sometimes I don’t even think about it.
Even when taking photographs in black and white a polarizing filter can add more contrast by affecting the light as it strikes the camera’s sensor. I have used one previously when shooting film, both for color and black and white. The above photos give a bit of an idea of its affect. The filter can give a scene an unreal look, but can also create more appeal especially when photographing fall foliage against a bright blue sky. The light quality in the fall is different, not quite so harsh, but a softer light as the earth does its rotation around the sun.
Love the filter or hate the filter, it’s just another tool that can add something to a photograph when the conditions are right and one wants to punch up the scene.
Jerry Mennenga
Sioux City, Iowa
lostinsiouxland 