Circular Polarizing Filter

TCD photography · Nov 14, 2011

I'm looking into a CPL for my Canon SX20; I did some research but don't really know that much about them or what to look for. What is a good/decent brand for a bit of a budget (no more than about $60, I feel like I should be saving money for a DSLR)? Will I need an adapter? Also, would the filter be compatible with a future Canon upgrade?

Thanks!

Stryker · Nov 14, 2011

CPL filters are available in different sizes depending on the size of your lens thread. I suggest you get the biggest (77 or 82mm) and get some step up ring adapters that would fit your lens thread. That way, you wont be buying another one when you upgrade your camera. I dont know if you could get one with a $60 budget though. Most good quality brands like B+W and Hoya cost more than your allocated cash. Cokins are cheap but I had some pretty bad experiences with that brand so I sold it

cgipson1 · Nov 14, 2011

I think your powershot is 58mm.... here are a couple, although you might consider a cheaper one since it is a PnS. These are all around $60 or less...

B&W Amazon.com: B+W 58mm Slim-Line Circular Polarizer: Electronics

Marumi (really popular in Japan.. have good reviews... supposed to be good!) Amazon.com: Marumi DHG Super Circular Polarizer CPL PL.D 58 58mm Filter Japan: Electronics

Stryker's suggestion is a good one.. except that you won't find a good 77mm or up filter for that price... more like double that. I personally would just get something less expensive.... and just sell it with the camera (or keep it in case you get a DSLR lens it will fit... a lot of basic primes are about that size.)

Railphotog · Nov 14, 2011

I owned an SX10, now have an SX30. I assume the SX20 filter arrangement is the same. There are minimal threads on the end of the lens, not really enough to seat a polarizer filter that needs to be rotated to use. Canon and aftermarket producers offer an adapter that fits onto the hood bayonet mount on the outside of the lens. I believe the adapter accepts 58mm filters; the lens threads accept 52mm ones. I never bothered with the adapter (around $20 on eBay), do put the filter on the lens threads, making sure I have a good grip on it when it use. Kinda awkward, but works.