Reflections off cars

[RonJohnson]

Evening all,

Just starting with this photography lark, so please be patient if I ask any stupid questions. Went to Cadwell last weekend for the Historic meeting and managed to get some decent shots. What seemed to bug me all day though was the reflections off the cars. Is there a decent way to prevent this? Filters?

Thanks in advance.

[GetCarter]

Circular poloriser.

[RonJohnson]

Thanks, thought that might be the answer, but wasn't sure. I take it that (as with everything) you get what you pay for? Any recommendations?

[MonkeyHanger]

GetCarter said:

Circular poloriser.

Not wise for Motorsports. A CP can cause some very odd reflections in windscreen glass as well as costing you at least a stop of light and reducing AF performance.

The best option is simply to keep the sun behind you. Get to know the circuit and where the sun will be at any given time of day. Move around accordingly . I also have my camera set to -1/3 EV. This reduces blown highlights on the cars a lot.
As the OP has mentioned Cadwell Park, here's a few samples from the BARC season opener a few weeks ago...

Edited by MonkeyHanger on Thursday 15th April 20:45

[GetCarter]

MonkeyHanger said:

GetCarter said:

Circular poloriser.

A CP can cause some very odd reflections in windscreen glass as well as costing you at least a stop of light and reducing AF performance.

True on both counts. Doesn't make it a bad thing to stop reflections though. You need to know how to use it mind, or you'll end up with problems like this :

[Muska]

If cost is no issue i'd recommend a B+W Kaesemann MRC Circular polarizer. Not cheap at about £180 but considered to be the best.

I believe Hoya's new range are good although i've not tried them.

[_dobbo_]

That's why I love PH, a beginner posts about how to control reflections and in no time someone has recommended a £180 filter!

[Muska]

in my defence, he did make mention to the fact you get what you pay for, and asked for recommendations!

[johnnywgk]

Mr Carter, problems like what? That looks like an exellent photo to me, so i've obviously missed something.

[GetCarter]

The colours on the headlams - you wouldn't see them with the naked eye - it's the polariser.