The optimum effect from a polarising filter is when it’s at 90 degrees from the direction of the sun and is of little use when pointing directly at or away from it. However, by rotating the polarised element it is possible to alter the effect, so in my opinion it is worthwhile setting it before taking off. This can be done simply by looking through it and adjusting before attaching to the camera. I think that a stand alone CPL would be more suited to still photography when shutter speed becomes less important and motion blur is not required. For videography, when ND filters are required, combined ND/CPL items may well be a good compromise. If the polarisation is not required for a shot, turning the polarised element to negate the effect would essentially give you a plain ND filter. Personally, I wouldn’t buy a polariser with a fixed element, it makes them more single use. Just for information, I have fitted a UV to both my Mini 2 and MA2 purely to afford some protection for the lens. I would rather try to clean dead insects, dirt or fingerprints from a filter than the lens itself.
1 Like