Looking for the BEST CPL for sailing / ocean pics. I would think said CPL would work well for my Alaska / Denali trip next week as well.
I used a HOYA NXT a couple of months ago on a sail trip. It was my first use of one. Pics came out good. I was kinda expecting more of a "WOW" or "POP" out of the pics, but it didn't happen.
Any recommendations?
After trying several, I've settled on the Hoya HD CPL. I like that it gives better light transmission (you'll lose about 1 to 1.5 stops versus 2 to 2.5 stops with a typical CPL) and how easily they clean up.
Did you remember turn the filter to find the right degree of polarization based on prevailing light/conditions? I ask because in looking at the pics in your post, I'm thinking you didn't; those shots look to me like (very) minimal polarization was applied. I would encourage you to experiment more with the CPL that you have to see if you can't get results you're happier with; I personally wouldn't shoot outdoors during the day, anyway, without a CPL. They don't add a dramatic degree of "POP" to your shots, but they will increase contrast and saturation to a degree and cut down of course, on reflected light.
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