When should you typically use a polarizing filter?

A polarizing filter is typically used when capturing landscapes with glare because it effectively reduces reflections and enhances color saturation, particularly in scenes featuring water or wet surfaces. This type of filter works by filtering out polarized light, which is the light that reflects off surfaces like water, glass, or even foliage, creating unwanted glare. By doing so, it allows for clearer and more vibrant images, making skies appear bluer and clouds more distinct, thus improving the overall quality of landscape photography.

In contrast, using a polarizing filter for portraits may not be beneficial as it can alter skin tones and potentially create uneven lighting. In low light conditions, a polarizing filter can actually reduce the amount of light reaching the sensor, making it less ideal for such situations where maximizing light is crucial. For macro shots, while there can be some benefits in certain scenarios, the primary purpose of a polarizing filter is to reduce glare and reflections in landscapes rather than focusing on intricate details in close-up photography. Therefore, its most effective application is indeed in landscapes where glare is present.