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Polarpro Shift Dioptre Shortstache review
Get up close with PolarPro + Shortstache dioptre filters – sharp, colour-neutral shots with a touch of creative flair
|27.02.2026
2 min read
At a glance
Using screw-in dioptre filters to get closer to your subject is not a new idea, but the funky filter brand Polarpro has made them sexy and relevant again.
PROS: Close-up capability, minimal light loss, creative effects
CONS: Reduces max focus distance, can’t stack filters
What is the Polarpro Shift Dioptre Shortstache?
By teaming up with Shortstache, the online brand of well-known adventure shooter Garrett King, Polarpro’s new set of three filters comes complete in either threaded or Polarpro Maglock fitments and with a trademark green Shortstache case. They are designed so that your shots retain the look of your original lens, as they offer very little decrease in light transmission, are colour-neutral and combat fringing.
All sets come with +2, +4 and +8 dioptre filters which go onto the front of your lens and reduce its minimum and maximum focus distance. So, you can fix on a filter for superfast macro-style shots without swapping lenses.
They also decrease the maximum focus distance to around 50cm for the +2, 25cm for the +4 and 12.5cm for the +8, so you can’t leave them on all the time. They also can’t be combined, as there would be significant vignetting.
We tried them on a full-frame Sony A1 with a 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN II Sigma lens set at 70mm and its minimum focus distance to shoot details of a watch. The +2 and +4 ones get you in a lot closer, but the strongest version adds a unique look of its own as the depth-of-field can be so shallow. While the two less powerful dioptres are very good at fending off flare, the +8 has a much larger front surface so flares and creates unusual effects at the edge of the frame. Purists may not like it, but it is a more creative option.
Polarpro Shift Dioptre Shortstache price and availability
The price varies according to size but the threaded, 82mm set is £249.
For more information, visit the Polarpro website.
The Polarpro kit comes with three close-up filters to help you achieve the right level of magnification. Image: Polarpro
- Material Optical-grade, multi-coated, cinema-series glass in aerospace aluminium rim
- Fitment Threaded 49, 67, 77, 82, 86 and 95mm, Polarpro Maglock fit
- Grades +2, +4 and +8 dioptre
- Transmission 94%
- Weight with case From 98g threaded, 140g Maglock (depending on filter size)
Verdict
Overall rating: 9/10
For instant close-ups without changing your lens, the Polarpro kit is a valuable addition to your kit bag, ideal for either stills or video. The strongest dioptre offers a unique look, too
PROS: Close-up capability, minimal light loss, creative effects
CONS: Reduces max focus distance, can’t stack filters
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