 Brett M |
Use of UV Filters? I was told that I should buy a UV filter to out on my lens as a measure of protection for my lens. This way, the lens would be protected form scratches. In addition, I wouldn't have to worry about damaging the coatings on the lens. It would be cheaper to replace a UV filter than a lens. This all seems to make sense to me. Are there any reasons I should not do this? Under what conditions would the UV filter be detrimental to my photographs. I have the Canon 5D Mark II if makes any difference.
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Alan N. Marcus |
UV filters block UV light. They are a must for high altitude photography as they provide haze penetration. They are less effective at this task at lower elevations. A close relative to the UV is the skylight, a UV tinted pinkish. The skylight serves to neutralize the cold blush daylight common to landscapes under clear blue-sky conditions. Their use is arguable in the digital age as cameras now feature ‘white balance’ logic. They do however afford protection. There is a downside to mounting any filter. You are mounting glass with two surfaces. If not perfectly flat, distortion is induced. Additionally the extra two surfaces contribute reflections that increase flare. Flare can be devastating as it reduces image contrast. A UV filter slightly cuts down of the amount of exposing light. My recommendation is: you should only mount a filter to gain a known advantage. Alan Marcus
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Pete H |
To add: If you are getting a UV filter, do your research. All UV filters are NOT created equal. Some are just plain garbage with very poor pass bands. Brett, if your concern is simply protecting the glass, may I suggest a low profile lens hood.
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Bob Cammarata |
I agree with Alan. Filters should be applied only when a desired effect or corrective application warrants their use. There will be those who disagree but in my opinion, the concept of selling "filters for protection" is a marketing strategy. You can protect the front element of your lens by just being careful...and by keeping your lens cap on while in transit.
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John P. Sandstedt |
I agree with Pete regarding a lens hood. If you must consider a filter, you might try a Hoya Skylight 1B [I find them better than the 1A's.]
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- Carlton Ward Contact Carlton Ward Carlton Ward's Gallery |
Hi Brett, I bought a couple of UV filters for the same reason you stated "to protect the lens". I made the mistake of buying cheap UV filters and once I started buying L lenses, I quit using them. Why put a sub-standard optic in front of my expensive L glass ? When I am in hazy conditions I will use a UV for its function but not for protection (and I did buy quality UV filters). I am pretty good about using a lens hood & I also place the lens cap back on after I have taken the shots I want. The only filter I use a lot is a B&W Kaeseman Circular Polarizer (77mm since this fits 6 of my lenses) and sometimes a ND (Neutral Density) filter. The CP is good for waterfalls as it controls the reflection off the water and can make your sky bluer & allow for more detail in darker areas. The CP filter does cost you 2 stops but I always have my tripod with me anyway so I can get as much DOF and use slower shutter speeds. Many of the warming & cooling filters can be simulated in Photoshop so I dont carry these. Everyone provided you with great information - Good Luck, Carlton
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Brett M |
I am using L series lenses as well. Since I bought the 5D Mark II, I can spare no expense in glass. I bought a good, $75 Sigma UV Filter (77mm) but have yet to use it because the camera is hasnt arrived yet. Thanks for suggesting the CP filter and telling me its function. I know about the camera and its standard uses but I haven't ventured into the wonderful world of filters. I would be really nice if I could buy a book about this. If someone wrote a book like "So, You Want to Use a Filter: A Simple explanation of the con's pro's and effects of every filter known to man," I would be thrilled. :)
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John P. Sandstedt |
Go to a good library. There are any number of books on filters. I have two, one from Kodak the other from Tiffen. Or, simply Google "Filters."
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