What's a good Circular Polarizer

Jerry Morris · #1 06-14-2007, 07:28 PM

I have been shooting with a Quantaray CP filter on my Canon 100-400L IS and notice sometimes the photo's are really sharp and sometimes not. After testing the identical shot with and without I have found that with the filter on it is hit or miss. Don't know why, but it is. Always sharp without and not always with it on.
I know it is "an inexpensive" filter and I would like advice on what is a good CP filter that will work on 100-400 and 70-200 2.8 and not interfere with the sharpness of the lenses.
thanks in advance for you responses.

Dennis_Vied · #2 06-14-2007, 07:56 PM

I'd go for a Hoya. I've had good service from them.

Since I'm a new Canon user, the only C-PLs I have are left-over Nikon 72mm and a Hoya 77mm. I haven't had a chance to try the Canon C-PL as yet, but I'm sure it's fine equipment. I used mostly Nikon filters before, and I am a fan of OEM filters. You get what you pay for, and I would consider Canon, B&W, and Hoya filters in that order.

Noel_Carboni · #3 06-15-2007, 12:28 AM

Canon would probably tell you only a Canon filter would work. Dunno 'bout that, but I use a Canon Circular PL-C myself and haven't seen problems with sharpness personally.

-Noel

David_Buzzard · #4 06-15-2007, 01:08 AM

B+W is a good brand. A 77mm circlular polarizer runs about $164.00 at B&H. A low end filter is really going to take a bite out of your optical performance.

David Buzzard's Technical Blog

AKPhotos · #5 06-15-2007, 01:20 AM

Well it depends on what you want. If you are using expensive lens, like the Canon L series, I would suggest either the Heliopan, or the B+W, as they are both GROUND glass like that found in your lenses, the rest are standard window type glass. I have both of the top of line HOYA and a Heliopan, and there is a slight difference, and I also find the build of the heliopan to be better, its a lot smoother. Hope this helps

Jerry Morris · #6 06-15-2007, 10:35 PM

Thanks for the info. Looks like a toss up between HOYA Pro I and B+W. Both about the same price. Will probably go with the B+W... Now I've looked at heliopan and more decisions.

Noel_Carboni · #7 06-16-2007, 01:09 PM

By the lack of other responses touting Canon, have I been mislead in my understanding that they make some of the best filters? I notice Canon's price isn't out of line with the others.

-Noel

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