I was wondering how many of you use or not use UV filters for protecting the front element. I know that anything in front of the lens can possible degrade the image but I just use one just in case. But maybe many of you don't use one to get the best possible image quality.
I use them sometimes... like when I'm shooting in a lens-unfriendly environment (dust, mud, salt air, etc.). The key is to use good quality filters (anytime filters are used)... my protective filters are Nikon L37C's or B+W.
I have never used filters for protection. Just another piece of glass to shoot through. The lenses are coated and are more durable than one would think. If I was shooting in the desert (Sahara) I would probably use a PL. I just cannot see spending $80 for a filter to protect a lens. I have had any problems in years and years.
I know that a lot of people use them for protection. I would like to know if the UV does anything to help, as far as effect.
I use them for protection so I dont have to worry about the front element on my lenses when im shooting on the fly and or in dirty/grimy conditions, which I am most of the time
I'm a cover filter guy. I go places where lenses can get splashed, nicked, smeared, salt mist, chemicals, windblown sand, etc. I'm using Hoya's HD series UV these days (was using B+W's best UV filters). If the filter will be a problem for a shot, I just take it off.
Too much investment in lenses not to. Besides, landscape photography usually demands something to help reduce haze, whether it's a polarizer or a UV filter.
Wow, I bet no one ever thought to ask that qusetion before
Did you "search" before asking, because I think you'll find this come up again, and again, and again, and again, and again.................................
BTW, No, I don't use filters. If I know I'll be in salty/sandy/dirty conditions and I have to shoot (which is rarely if ever) then I'd opt for a filter. Otherwise, why put something on the glass that is not going to improve IQ?
If you want a better answer, then ask a different (better) question(s). Find out how much experience the respondent has, how and where they shoot, and whether they do or do not use filters on a professional or even a regular basis. You'll get better information than opening it up to all comers....
jaehoppa wrote:
I was wondering how many of you use or not use UV filters for protecting the front element. I know that anything in front of the lens can possible degrade the image but I just use one just in case. But maybe many of you don't use one to get the best possible image quality.
I've used a protection filter on my lenses for over 35 years and it saved two lenses when I fell on ice. If I get into a flare situation then I take them off and shoot.
