Creative Photography Techniques: How to Use Camera Filters
8 May 2010
Author: Holly Craft
Before there were digital cameras, we used film. While some adjustments could be done during processing, most creativity took place when the photo was taken. One of the biggest tools used were add on filters. These filters still work on digital single lens reflex cameras (DSLR) and many can even be held in front of point and shoot cameras for a fun and creative effect. Let’s explore the possibilities and learn how to use camera filters!
Filter Size:
Each lens you use on a DSLR camera will have a filter size. Filters are usually screwed on to the threads that are found at the end of the lens where you will find the circumference shown such as 58 mm. There are also systems that have a holder that attaches to the lens and the filter slips on the holder. Like most things, you get what you pay for….the better the material, the higher the price and the better the image.
Polarizer:
One popular filter is a circular polarizer. This filter is adjustable, in that you can physically turn it to get the desired results. It will give you greater saturation resulting in a more vibrant blue sky. It also cuts down on reflection and glare.
 |  |
Without Polarizer
| With Circular Polarizer
|
On this example, you see how much reflection there is on the surface of the water without a polarizing filter. When the polarizer is used the reflection is greatly reduced. This filter comes in handy when shooting landscapes, scenes with water, or images behind glass.
Diffuser:
A diffuser filter gives an overall soft effect, which works great in portrait photography.
| 
|
No Diffuser
| With Diffuser
|
The effect is subtle, as you can see when you compare this photo without the diffuser and one taken with it.
Fog Filter:
For a more dramatic or ethereal look, you might want to try a fog or mist filter. It creates or enhances the effect of a natural fog as seen in this example.
|
Fog Filter
|
Spot Filter:
If you want to accentuate a clear central subject and diffuse the background, a spot filter is something to consider. This filter is great for facial portraits or to spotlight a subject such as the sculpture in the example.
 |
Spot Filter
|
Starlight Filter:
Another favorite filter is a starlight or star effect filter. This filter produces a star effect from pinpoint light sources and is available in differing number of points.
The optical glass is actually cross hatched to create the effect. The sun is a source of light that is effected by this filter as seen in this example.
 |
Starlight Filter with Sun
|
Care must be taken when using it with the sun, as a bright source of light can be too much light and the effect will take over the photo. Even light coming in a window will be picked up as in this example.
 |
Starlight Filter with Window and Chandelier
|
As you can see, chandeliers are a great subject for use of the starlight filter.
 |
Starlight Filter with Multiple Chandeleirs
|
Different colors of light might react differently as you see in this shot of the Eiffel Tower.
 |
Starlight Filter with Different Colors of Lights
|
Even reflections of light off water or any shiny surface will create a star effect.
 |
Starlight Filter with Light Reflected Off of Water
|
Weddings are a great venue for the use of this filter with candles and jewelry.
 |  |
Starlight Filter with Wedding Candles
| Starlight Filter with Wedding Jewelry
|
Other subjects to consider with a starlight filter are holiday lights and city lights. This effect can also be achieved without a filter to a degree with the right settings on the camera (narrow aperture setting) or on photo editing software by blurring or using star brushes.
UV Reducing Protection Filter:
There are many other filters we could discuss, but one filter everyone should use on their SLR or DSLR cameras is a UV Reducing Protection filter. This add on filter will protect the surface of your lens. A scratched filter is much less expensive to replace than a scratched lens.
Speaking of scratching, we have only scratched the rim of the subject of filters, but hopefully this brief look will encourage you to explore the possibilities. Some items become obsolete when technology changes but that is not true of filters; they are just another choice in achieving special effects on your special photos! Now that you understand how to use camera filters, invest in a few and shoot some creative new photographs - or at minimum, add a filter to protect the investment in your camera lens!