filter white balance

[Guest]

When using a filter, like a polarizer, do you white balance with the filter on or off?

 

[J_Barnes]

Re: filter white balance

In theory, On. Although the glass in something like a polarizer should be color neutral, tests have shown that certain manufacturers use glass that can carry the most minimal tone. In that case, I think it's better to be safe by color correcting with a neutral filter on (this would include ND filters, in my opinion).

For example, a lot of tiffens filters have a tiny green cast to them, whether or not this shows up on camera is debatable.

 

[brian]

Re: filter white balance

i have always white balanced with the filter on. I think it would be too much trouble to take the filter off every time i wanted to white balance

 

[sdjames]

Re: filter white balance

So if you are using something like an antique suede filter, you would white balance with the filter on?

 

[Barry_Green]

Re: filter white balance

No, because that would totally negate the filter. You have to remove all coloring filters before white balancing, or the camera will compensate for your filters, thus rendering them invisible.

 

[Guest]

Re: filter white balance

So are most of your in agreement that we white balance FIRST, then put on any filters? Or does it just depend on the filter?

 

[andre]

Re: filter white balance

Filters meant for coloring the image must be mounted after WB setting. Filters used for "neutral" corrections (polarizer, UV, haze...) need to be put on when WB is being set