Tiffen

Tiffen 72POL 72mm Linear Polarizer Filter

4.3 (164 reviews)

A reliable 72mm linear polarizer built with Tiffen's ColorCore technology to cut glare and deepen skies in-camera.

$35.95*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Tiffen 72POL 72mm Linear Polarizer Filter is a classic optical tool designed to manage reflections and enhance image quality directly at the point of capture. Built using Tiffen's proprietary ColorCore technology — where the polarizing film is laminated between two layers of optical glass — this filter provides reliable color accuracy and physical protection against edge delamination and moisture intrusion. By filtering out polarized light waves, it reduces or eliminates glare from non-metallic surfaces such as water, glass, painted surfaces, and foliage, while simultaneously deepening blue skies and increasing overall color saturation. The rotating mount lets you fine-tune the degree of polarization in real time by simply turning the filter ring until the desired visual effect appears in your viewfinder.

It is important to note that this is a linear polarizer, not a circular one. While both types achieve the same visual polarization effect, linear polarizers can disrupt the phase-detection autofocus and through-the-lens metering systems used in most modern DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. This makes the Tiffen 72POL best suited for manual-focus film cameras, rangefinders, view cameras, or any setup where autofocus and automatic metering are not relied upon. For photographers working with these systems, the linear polarizer remains a highly effective and often more affordable option than its circular counterpart, delivering the same glare-cutting and contrast-enhancing benefits that have made polarizers an essential part of outdoor photography for decades.

Key Features

Essential general-use outdoor color filter

Can be rotated to achieve desired effect

72mm diameter

Reduces glare and reflections from nonmetallic objects and glass surfaces

Minimize haze in both color and black-and-white photography

Specifications

Brand
Tiffen
Model
72POL
Filter Type
Linear Polarizer
Diameter
72mm
Technology
ColorCore
Function
Reduces reflections and glare, enhances skies and foliage, minimizes haze
Compatibility
Color and black-and-white photography

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Tiffen's ColorCore construction ensures consistent color fidelity and protects the polarizing element from moisture damage
  • Effectively reduces glare and reflections from water, glass, and non-metallic surfaces without post-processing
  • Rotatable ring allows precise, real-time control over the polarization strength directly on the lens
  • Useful in both color and black-and-white photography for enhancing contrast and minimizing atmospheric haze
  • Tiffen's long-standing reputation and USA manufacturing provide confidence in optical quality and durability

👎 Cons

  • Linear polarizer design can interfere with autofocus and TTL metering on modern DSLR and mirrorless cameras
  • Reduces light by approximately 1-2 stops, which may force slower shutter speeds or higher ISO in dimmer conditions
  • Single 72mm thread size means it only fits lenses with a matching filter diameter without step-up rings
  • No multi-coating mentioned, so it may be more susceptible to flare and ghosting than coated alternatives
  • Provides no effect when shooting directly into or away from the light source — maximum polarization occurs at 90 degrees to the sun

Frequently Asked Questions

A linear polarizer like the Tiffen 72POL filters light in a single plane, which is effective at reducing reflections and glare. However, linear polarizers can interfere with autofocus and metering systems on modern DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. If your camera uses through-the-lens metering or autofocus, a circular polarizer is typically recommended instead.
You rotate the filter ring while it is mounted on your lens. As you turn it, you will see reflections and glare increase or decrease through the viewfinder or on your LCD. Stop rotating when you achieve the desired effect.
ColorCore is Tiffen's proprietary process where the polarizing material is laminated between two pieces of optical glass. This construction provides consistent color accuracy and protects the polarizing element from edge moisture and physical damage.
Yes, the Tiffen 72mm Linear Polarizer is effective in both color and black-and-white photography. In color work it deepens blue skies and reduces reflections; in black-and-white it increases tonal contrast and minimizes haze.
Yes, polarizer filters typically reduce light transmission by approximately 1 to 2 stops, which may require you to adjust your exposure settings or use a slightly slower shutter speed.