filter questions

[JoeyB]

Hi All, new here & first post, so go easy on me!  , just a few questions about use of filters for aviation photography.
I've been snapping for a good few years now, but not much aircraft (RIAT '05 & a few Portrush & Ards shows) & was wondering if use of a polarising filter (sunny days) be helpful for both reducing glare from windows etc. and darkening the blue of the sky (depending obviously on the angle to the sun).
would anyone use this or is it not worth the loss of f-stops?

Thanks,

Joe

[casper]

  Hi Joe and welcome to the forum
I haven't used a polariser in many years and never for photography aircraft. If I had one now I guess I might attempt to use it for static displays but never for moving aircraft, the reason - I find it hard enough to photography aircraft without having to fiddle with a filter on the end of my lens 
Although this photographer says they're a must

Count on purchasing a polarizing filter. This filter cuts through the reflections on objects such as water, or better yet, atmospheric haze. This filter can salvage a hazy day, knock down the reflections on that new paint scheme, and boost colors into the high-definition-television realm.

http://www.aopa.org/photocontest/tips.html

[JoeyB]

Cheers for that Casper, I shoot a lot of Bikes & find the polar. loses too much light for the action stuff & just wondered if the more experienced air 'togs would find them useful.
 

[casper]

just wondered if the more experienced air 'togs would find them useful.

You might find that they do Maybe I'll give it a go someday.

[Dave]

I looked into this myself a short while ago and it seems most photographers that use filters use them to protect their lens glass, rather than benefitting from what the filters offer. Also a good few photographers will not use filters as it just adds more glass to the lens which will reduce quality slightly.

Personally I have two filters but have never used them however I would be tempted to try a days shooting with a polarizer in an attempt to retain some blue in the sky.

[Angry Turnip]

I always use a UV filter-just to protect the lens-polorising filters are very trivky to use on moving aircraft-I would not recommend it especially in our weather!