 BetterPhoto Member |
Filters for various size lenses Hi everyone, I have just bought my second lens and I hope to buy 1-2 more within the next year or two. The lens I currently shoot with has a 58mm thread. I own a UV filter, a polarizing filter, a ND filter, and a close-up filter. Here's the question... What's the best way to deal with filters on lenses that are different sizes?? The new lens has a 52mm thread. Do I buy the same three filters in the 52mm size? Do I buy a 52-58 step-up ring and use the filters I already own? Am I better off investing in some sort of filter holder system that can be used on any lens? I don't plan on going crazy with filters, but I see myself getting a few others (graduated ND, sunset, etc.). I appreciate any advice you can give me. Thanks!
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Michael H. Cothran |
Seth, Since you're familiar with Stepup/Stepdown rings, I suggest that the best way to go is to buy ALL of your quality glass filters in one larger size, then buy "step-up" rings for each size lens you own. Personally, I own all 77mm filters, and can use them on lenses from 52mm and up, because I have a lot of step-up rings (which are much cheaper to buy than a different size glass filter!). The BIG problem with buying all filters 58mm or smaller as you questioned, is that you will most likely buy a lens with a larger size thread someday, and then be dead in the water with your current small filters. (You really want to avoid putting smaller thread filters on larger thread lenses.) Many of the current crop of zooms and fast fixed lenses come in 62, 67, 72, and 77mm threads. I would be willing to bet that you will own one eventually. While it is certainly true that the larger the filter, the more expensive it is, it still seems more economical to pay a little more money for a larger glass filter, rather than buying several similar filters in different sizes. You are wise in sticking with glass filters. My advice is to stay away from anything plastic. If you've got good lenses, why spoil it with a piece of junk sitting in front? You're also wise in not wanting to go "crazy" with filters. Michael H. Cothran www.mhcphoto.net
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Kerry L. Walker |
Michael is 100% correct.
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Doug Elliott |
Seth, I concur with both Michael and Kerry. I will throw my towel into the ring. You may want to look at Cokin or Lee Filter systems. These allow you to use many different types of filter in different sizes with only one adapter. You might look into these systems and see if they might be something you can use. Hope this information is helpful, keep shooting. Doug
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