The polarizing filter is one of the most popular filters among nature and landscape photographers. Its task is to eliminate reflections. This works particularly well if the photographer shoots at right angles to the light source. For example, when using a polarizing filter, the sun should come from the side if possible. If I have the sun behind me or am photographing against the sun, the polarizing filter will only work to a very limited extent or not at all. A polarizing filter is usually screwed into the filter thread of the lens from the front. With cell phones or compact cameras, you simply hold the filter in front of the lens. If you look through the camera at the surface of the Hermann pond with the filter screwed in, you can turn the polarizing filter. You will find a position of the filter where hardly any reflections can be seen on the water surface (image 1: without polarizing filter, image 2: with polarizing filter). With the help of a polarizing filter, the photographer can therefore decide at the edge of a body of water: If a reflection in the water looks interesting, he photographs it. However, if it is boring or disturbing, he can remove it with a polarizing filter. The color of the water can then be seen in the picture. The person behind the camera decides what is more beautiful and interesting.
Task:
Water surfaces are mirrors. In the village (and sometimes in nature) there are other mirrors. What could they be? Pay attention to such reflections. Try out different perspectives and shooting locations until you see an interesting motif in the mirror. Apart from the reflection, include as little of the surroundings as possible - but as much as necessary to make it clear what your subject is reflected in.
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