As a photographer who spends a lot of time working with natural light — whether I’m shooting outdoor portraits, still life in windows, or content on the move — I’m always curious about new tools that claim to help tame harsh sunlight or cut through reflections. So when PolarPro reached out and sent me their Shortstache Everyday Filter to test and review, I was happy to give it a go.
Please note: While Polar Pro sent me this filter to review and keep, all thoughts are my own
PolarPro “Everyday” Filter — What is it?
It’s called the “Everyday Filter” because it’s designed for daily use — ideal for lifestyle, travel, outdoor portraiture, and documentary-style photography. It claims to combine a variable polariser with a ‘mist’ filter (think of a low ND filter), offering both light control and reflection reduction in one tool.
I hadn’t heard much about this particular filter before, and while the branding is clearly aimed at travel and lifestyle creatives, I wanted to see how it would stack up in my own, more controlled and creative workflows. Here’s how it performed — the good, the not-so-good, and whether or not it earned a place in my camera bag.
Out of the box, this filter is quite nice. The packaging is sleek and minimal, like everything PolarPro does. The filter itself feels premium: aluminum, solid build, satisfying rotation. You definitely get the feeling that this is a “designer filter” — but hey, we all like pretty gear, right? The box is a little tricky to open, you have to push the lid and flick the clip. This became more difficult after a few uses, and when I added a step-up ring in there as well.
PolarPro “Everyday” Filter — Tech specs
Let’s get into the numbers and features:
- Type: Black Mist + Polariser [Everyday Version – PL + subtle halation for filmic character]
- Stops of Light Reduction: Approx. 1–2.5 stops
- Glass: Chroma Glass delivers exceptional color accuracy
- Frame: Aluminum frame with laser-etched ridges
- Sizes: Available from 43mm, to 82mm (I used the 72mm)
- Price Point: Around US$130.00 [so a little on the pricey side]
PolarPro “Everyday” Filter — Real-world use
Let’s talk about the Polariser function first — does it cut reflections?
In short… not a lot, a little, but not as much as I was expecting.
I tested it on water, glass, wet leaves — all typical CPL scenarios. The reflection reduction was minimal, if anything. Compared to what I expect from my trusty Hoya CPL, I felt it really wasn’t up to the task, in terms of managing reflections. If your goal is to shoot through windows, reduce harsh reflection on surfaces, or get that silky clear look over a lake or puddle — this filter won’t be your best friend. The polarisation effect is just too subtle.
Where it does shine is in controlling sun glare and saturating colours, especially in strong daylight. As a PL (or ND) filter, it works beautifully in this regard.
I shot with it during midday sun (you know, that glorious but harsh Aussie light) and it helped cut down the harshness just enough to keep contrast and details in check. Think of it like putting on a pair of good sunglasses — the light is still there, but softened, more controlled, and colours become more vivid without feeling artificial. Greens were lush, blues were punchy — perfect for stylised travel or lifestyle shots.
PolarPro “Everyday” Filter — Handling and build
From a usability point of view, it’s a not bad. The filter rotates smoothly and holds its position well. Although when I used it initially it was a bit stiff, but loosened up with a little use. I did not find that the etched edges make it easy to dial in consistent settings or not, there are no real markings. The slim design prevents vignetting, even on wider focal lengths. But did make it tricky to twist around. Twisting the lens seemed to have little effect on the Polariser to be honest. I have more luck taking the lens on and off? I had to point it to where there was quite harsh light and contrast to see the subtle effect the CPL was having.
Also, it’s not exactly lightweight, but not overly heavy. It’s not heavy enough to throw off your gimbal balance or weigh down your kit, if you’re trying to go ultralight, it’s worth noting. Fits comfortably in your pocket in the case.
Photo examples
Here are some side-by-side images with and without the filter:
If you’re reading this on the blog, click to enlarge — the changes are subtle but effective in the right situations.
Final Verdict
So — does the PolarPro Shortstache Everyday Filter live up to the hype?
Yes and no.
If you’re buying it for the CPL capabilities, I’d say skip it. The polarisation effect is too mild to be useful for serious reflection control. You’d be better off with a dedicated CPL if that’s your main need.
But as an ND filter for everyday outdoor use, it’s quite good. It gives your images a richer, more cinematic quality without introducing strong colour casts or awkward vignetting. I particularly liked it for outdoor with natural light — any time when the sun was a bit too strong, but I didn’t want to lose clarity or contrast. It also made the blue sky and Autumn colors pop! The starburst was quite cinematic as well.