Circular Polarizer Filter

[Malcolm Benn]

Just curious if anyone uses a circular polarizer on their long lenses i.e. 300mm, 500mm etc. I was looking at a Canon 52mm Drop-In Circular Polarizer Filter and it's ridiculously expensive but it could come in handy. Anybody use one and what do you think about the results?

[Nick Palmieri]

I have always been told there was no need for it. I guess it depends on what you are shooting though. I have the 600 which I use for birds and the polarizer would only reduce light therefore I would lose speed, the last thing I would need when shooting birds.

[Charles Glatzer]

I use a 3 stop ND filter in 52 drop in holder for reducing light with big glass. The main advantage is that I can use a wider f/stop with slower shutter speed.

Chas

[Arthur Morris]

As per Chas:


B&W 52mm 3-stop Neutral Density filter (Slim: 0.9 ND) for the Canon Super-telephoto lense (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/155036-REG/B_W_65099789_52mm_103_Neutral_Density.html/BI/6633/KBID/7226)s

and this:

Canon 52mm Drop-In Filter Holder for Super-telephoto lenses (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/186092-REG/Canon_2612A002_Drop_In_Filter_Holder_for.html/BI/6633/KBID/7226)

Note that you need the Slim version for the .9 (3-stop) ND. As thanks for the research, please use these exact links if you purchase :) and thanks.

You can get down to 1/4 sec. at ISO 50 in the sun if you wish.

[Roger Clark]

I have the drop in circular polarizer for my 500 f/4. I rarely use it and if traveling light, usually leave it home.

Roger

[Malcolm Benn]

Thanks for the various responses, they've given me a bit more to think about i.e. using a ND in the drop-in slot ... I had been thinking of the CP for the glare reducing factor in shooting herons and ducks on the water with the 500mm and possibly in my 300mm for a different twist on landscape shots. Always more to think about .. thanks again.