Quick answer
Choose a Circular Polarizer (CPL) for cutting glare and deepening skies in landscapes; choose a Starburst FX filter for adding dramatic sun flares or star effects in night scenes.
How they differ in use
A CPL filter works by rotating to block polarized light, reducing reflections from water, glass, and foliage. This makes it ideal for outdoor daytime photography where you want richer colors and clearer details.
A Starburst FX filter uses a patterned coating to diffract bright highlights, creating visible starbursts or flares. It shines in low-light or backlit conditions where point light sources like street lamps or the sun are present.
The trade-off you need to know
No single filter does both jobs well. The CPL cannot produce starburst effects, and the Starburst FX does not reduce reflections or enhance color saturation. Your choice depends on the scene you shoot most often.
If you shoot landscapes during golden hour, a CPL helps manage reflections on water and leaves. If you shoot cityscapes at night or want creative flare effects, the Starburst FX gives you that look straight out of camera.
Which filter should you choose?
- Choose the CPL if…: You want to reduce glare from water or glass, deepen blue skies, or make foliage pop in outdoor daytime scenes. It works best when you have a clear subject and want to control reflections.
- Choose the Starburst FX if…: You want to add dramatic star-like flares from street lamps, the sun, or other bright point sources. It is especially effective for night photography, concerts, or creative portraiture with backlight.
- Consider using both…: If you own both filters, you can stack them (with care to avoid vignetting) to combine reflection control with flare effects. However, stacking may reduce overall image sharpness and introduce unwanted artifacts. Test your lens and filter combination at home before a shoot to confirm the look you want.
Products at a glance
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Circular Polarizer (CPL) Filter: Features a rotating ring that allows precise control over reflections and glare by selectively blocking polarized light from non-metallic surfaces. You can dial in just the right amount of reflection reduction for water, glass, or foliage without losing image brightness.
Circular Polarizer (CPL) Filter
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Solar Flare FX Filter: Creates organic looking solar flares that change depending on the filter's rotation and orientation, available in Clear and Amber color versions. You get in-camera flare effects that are repeatable and adjustable, saving post-production time for creative shots.
Solar Flare FX Filter
Which filter fits your style?
Best for
- Landscape photographers who want to cut glare and boost color saturation in daylight
- Travel shooters needing a versatile filter for water, sky, and foliage scenes
Not ideal for
- Night or low-light shooters who want creative flare effects (choose Starburst FX instead)
- Videographers who need consistent flare shapes without rotating elements
