The basic ingredient,

More and more people seem to be carrying a pro or a semi pro camera these days. Those cameras come with an interchangeable lens. And unexceptionally those lenses allow to use filters. But is a filter really necessary?

The imperative of shooting with a filter (in this case a circular polarizing filter) is to reduce glare of any surface. Glare is a harsh uncomfortably bright light. Take a look at the two photos below to see the difference (click to enlarge).

As you've probably noted, the one on the right has been shot with a filter. It has more intense colors like the sky's blue and vegetation's green. Also the water-surface is clearly transparent and has only little glare.

Using filters is easy and can be done by anyone. They are sold in most stores that sell cameras. Prices vary according to the quality and size, but they are all affordable. Just be sure to check the diameter of the lens, so you have a filter that fits to your objective. For example Sigma in my case tells to use a filter size of 62 mm. Installing is done with a few turns: the filter screws in to the lens. Using is almost automatic.

Necessary - not, but highly recommended! An investment in a filter is a quick step for a grade better photos.