The Tiffen 6.6 x 6.6" Linear Polariser Filter is designed to minimize reflections and glare by filtering out light that has become polarised through reflection off non-metallic surfaces. When sunlight interacts with air molecules, it becomes partially polarised, which causes the scattered light to create a hazy appearance. By utilizing a polarising filter, this directionally polarised light is arranged and filtered perpendicularly to the reflected light, enabling the absorption of a significant portion of this light. This process leads to a visible reduction in glare and unwanted reflections from surfaces like glass or water, and it also enhances the saturation of skies and foliage, making colors appear richer and more vibrant.
Linear vs. Circular Polarisers
A linear polariser differs from a circular polariser in that it lacks the additional quarter wave plate found in circular polarisers. The quarter wave plate is used to convert linearly polarised light into circularly polarised light, which is essential when working with modern camera autofocus and exposure systems. Because linear polarisers break down and orient the light differently, they can interfere with a camera’s autofocus and exposure metering functions, potentially leading to inaccurate results. In contrast, circular polarisers allow these camera features to function correctly by circularly polarising the filtered light.
Recommended Usage
This filter is best suited for setups where in-camera exposure metering or autofocus is not being utilized. The Tiffen Linear Polariser is non-coated and provides approximately 40% average light transmission, ensuring effective filtration without excessive loss of light.
Tiffen’s ColorCore Technology
Tiffen filters are manufactured using ColorCore technology, a unique process where the filter substrate is laminated between two pieces of optical glass and then ground flat to an exceptional tolerance of 1/10,000th of an inch. This manufacturing technique ensures high quality and reliable performance for demanding photographic applications.
