BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: Camera Filters

Photography Question 

Wendy Ellis
 

UV Filter


I just got a new lens - the Canon EF24-70mm F2.8L USM - and I need to get a UV Filter for it. I primarily want it just to protect the lens. I was reading some reviews that said the type of glass on the filter makes a big difference in quality of pictures, and the filter that the reviewer recommended is about twice the cost of most UV filters I've seen. Is there really that big of a difference in quality to warrant such an increased cost? If there is, then I don't mind shelling out the extra money. But I wanted to get some other opinions first.
Thanks!


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March 04, 2005

 

Jon Close
  Multicoated filters are much more resistant to flare than cheaper single or uncoated filters. The other thing to look at is the ring material. Brass is generally the best, aluminum or titanium pretty good, and plastic should be avoided. The plastic rings have soft threads that are easily deformed and increase the likelihood of the filter getting stuck on the lens.
Spending more for B+W or Hoya's top-line Super HMC (Hoya Multi Coated) is appropriate for your L lens, but you may not necessarily see a difference in your photos. I'm happy using Tiffen and Hoya's mid-line Standard or HMC filters and using the lens hood to control flare.
The makers also have a more expensive line for use on wide-angle lenses, where using a filter may contribute to vignetting. Called Ultra (Hoya), Slim, Wide, WA (Tiffen Wide-Angle), etc. these usually eliminate the front threads (so filters cannot be stacked). Generally not a problem for your zoom, these are usually more appropriate for use on focal lengths less than 24mm.


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March 05, 2005

 

Tony Sweet
  If you feel the need for a UV filter, consider the Singh Ray Hi-Lux. It is a multi-coated UV with an 81A built-in, super high-quality glass. Works especially well when using flash, as the 81A tends to warm the cold light generated from the flash, including the slight blue cast on wedding gowns when using flash. http://singhray.com


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March 05, 2005

 

Ted Strong
  I opted for the Hoya Clear mult-coated, ultra thin glass filter rather than a UV. My thinking was the glass filter would give me a "what I see is what I get" picture.


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March 08, 2005

 

Wendy Ellis
  Thanks everyone for your advice!


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March 10, 2005

 

Chris J. Browne
  I shoot with my lense nude. No filter. . .just be careful. Keep the lense cape on unless you take a photo. . .UV filters are overrated and the protective idea is just an excuse to mistreat your lense. . .Remember anything infront of the lense will alter the photography. ANYTHING!


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March 12, 2005

 

Peter K. Burian
  I agree with Chris.

This lens is SUPERB. Why take a chance on degrading image quality with a filter?

Keep the lens hood on at all times to protect the front element from scratches and fingerprints.

Peter Burian


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March 19, 2005

 

Peter K. Burian
  I can understand the need for a polarizing filter.

See my article at:

http://www.edigitalphoto.com/tips_techniques/0305edp_sharpen/

or at http://www.edigitalphoto.com/tips_techniques/0307edp_getbetter/

But be sure to buy a high quality brand such as B+W or Hoya Super Multi Coated.

Peter Burian


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March 19, 2005

 
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