UV filters for lens...question

[Miss Liz]

Ok, so I was going to buy a UV filter for a lens I just bought, but then I read that it's not really necessary for digital cameras. The article I read just said that they were used for film to protect the lens or something like that, and that if used on a digital SLR that it could create blurry images and stuff.

So my question is, should I still get one, or should I believe this article?

Thanks for the help!

[0lBaldy]

Re: UV filters for lens...question

UV filters block ultraviolet light, which can cause a bluish cast in images shot where there's a lot of UV. If you are going to be taking pictures in the mountains or at sea or taking pictures in the snow, the UV filter will filter out the blue haze that normally blurs the background of your picture. However most people use UV filters to protect the front element of their lens as much as to block UV and they leave it on the lens at all times. You can digitally correct in post for the blue cast using Photoshop or other programs so for that reason you may not need it.

You can't digitally simulate the effect of a Circular (NOT Linear)Polarizer on a digital camera. It can darken blue skies, increase contrast of partly reflecting subjects (like leaves and flowers), and reduce reflections from non metallic surfaces like glass and water.
I'd put a polarizing filter #1 on my list of "must have" digital filters and it's my most used filter.

Just my thoughts

[Frank Lopes]

Re: UV filters for lens...question

There is no set answer.

One school of thought says that, besides protection, there is really no major reason why one should use an UV filter. From a protection perspective, I think it is worth since it is much cheaper to buy a broken $30 filter than a $500 lens.

The other school of thought says, why would you put in front of your $500 lens a piece of cheap $30 glass? A cheap filter can cause flare and refractions which you will not have to deal with if you didn't have it installed. Instead of an UV filter these folks would recommend a lens hood.

My recommendation is: buy one, shoot with it and without it and see if it creates problems for you. If it does not create flare or funny reflections, keep it.

Just my 2 cents.

Ok, so I was going to buy a UV filter for a lens I just bought, but then I read that it's not really necessary for digital cameras. The article I read just said that they were used for film to protect the lens or something like that, and that if used on a digital SLR that it could create blurry images and stuff.

So my question is, should I still get one, or should I believe this article?

Thanks for the help!

[skydog]

Re: UV filters for lens...question

For protection of your lens..I'd say yes. When I buy a good quality lens I also buy a good quality UV filter.

[igot2pman]

Re: UV filters for lens...question

I use Hoya UV HMC Super on all my lenses. Never had a problem with them sides the cost.

Supposed to be the best...But i think protection is their main benifit.

-Keven

[Miss Liz]

Re: UV filters for lens...question

Thanks to everyone who replied! It really helped!

Now another question. How do I know what size to choose for filters?

[Frank Lopes]

Re: UV filters for lens...question

The size is often printed on the back side of a lens cap.
Or you can look in the manual.

Or you can look it up in one of these charts:

Nikon-Nikkor

http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Plumtree-Photo/Nikon-NIKKOR-Lens-Chart.html_

Canon

http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Plumtree-Photo/Canon-Lens-Chart.html_

Minolta

http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Plumtree-Photo/Minolta-Lens-Chart.html_

Olympus

http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Plumtree-Photo/Olympus-Zuiko-Lens-Chart.html_

Thanks to everyone who replied! It really helped!

Now another question. How do I know what size to choose for filters?

[igot2pman]

Re: UV filters for lens...question

Look at the back of your lens cap and it should tell you. It should/could also be tward the front of the lense on the side.

-Keven

[Mike]

Re: UV filters for lens...question

Or just take your lens to the camera store and tell them you want the ones that fit.....

[Miss Liz]

Re: UV filters for lens...question

Yeah today I took a look at the back of the lens cap and noticed it he he thanks for your help though