How well did you answer the questions?

 

Question 1: What is the symbol that denotes your lens’ filter diameter?

  • Â
  • f/
  • Ø
  • Œ

Explanation:

The mathematical symbol for diameter is: Ø. It is usually printed on the front of a lens with the size in millimeters immediately following. eg:  Ø 72mm. This is the size of filters or lens caps that will fit the front of the lens.

 

Question 2: What type of filter would you use to reduce the reflections in a window?

  • Graduated/split ND filter
  • Neutral density (ND) filter
  • Polarizing filter
  • UV filter

Explanation:

The polarizing filter offer the photographer a number of attributes including reducing reflection, when carefully positioned. It can also increase the blue in skies as well as reduce haze. This is one of the most valuable filters in outdoor photography.

 

Question 3: What type of filter would be best for achieving a slow shutter speed on a waterfall shot?

  • Graduated/split ND filter
  • Neutral density (ND) filter
  • Polarizing filter
  • UV filter

Explanation:

The neutral density filter reduces the amount of light allowed to enter the lens, thus allowing the use of slower shutter speeds. Available in a variety of strengths, this is an ideal filter choice for achieving very slow shutter speeds when capturing moving water.

 

Question 4: What type of filter would you use to darken the sky portion of a landscape image?

  • Graduated/split ND filter
  • Neutral density (ND) filter
  • Polarizing filter
  • UV filter

Explanation:

A graduated ND filter has a dark top half and a clear bottom half thereby darkening overly bright skies in a landscape photograph. This is an ideal choice for scenes with a wide dynamic range and a straight horizon.

 

Question 5: What type of filter is frequently recommended for protecting the front of the lens?

  • Graduated/split ND filter
  • Neutral density (ND) filter
  • Polarizing filter
  • UV filter

Explanation:

Protecting the front of the lens from scratches, dirt and water is best done with a UV or clear filter. This filter doesn’t reduce the light entering the lens and if of good optical quality, will not adversely affect image quality.

 

Question 6: At what angle from the sun will a polarizer achieve its maximum effect?

  • 45%
  • 60%
  • 90%
  • 0% (directly facing the sun)

Explanation:

Polarizing filters will have the strongest effect when positioned 90% to a strong light source. When outdoors and working with the sun, keep the sun positioned to either your left or right for the maximum effect with your camera. 

 

Question 7: What forced polarizers to be changed from linear-type to circular-type?

  • TTL flash systems
  • Mirrors for focusing & exposure
  • Mirrorless camera design
  • Digital sensors

Explanation:

Polarizing filters caused a problem with SLR (and DSLR) cameras that used mirrors that were used for focusing and exposure. If a polarizing filter was set to block the maximum amount of light, it would also block light going to the AF sensor and exposure meter. Circular polarizers changed the way the light entered the camera and solved the problem.

 

Question 8: Which of these filter types do you use?

  • Graduated/split ND filter
  • Neutral density (ND) filter
  • Polarizing filter
  • UV filter
  • I don’t use any filters

Message from John:

I use all of these filters, but not at the same time. In fact, I rarely use more than one filter at a time. If I want to use a polarizer, I take the UV filter off. In a very rare case I may combine a polarizing and a ND filter, or a polarizing and a spit ND filter. If I have a heavy flare situation, I remove the UV filter and shoot without any filter on the lens.

 

 

 

Congratulations to the winner of the $80 gift voucher, G Abbott from Wisconsin, USA.