Using UV Filters

I hate to sound controversial but didn't you check?

Personally I can see no detrimental effect when I'm using the filter and the odd occasion where I 'think' it might make a difference I take it off.

I think we can easily get carried away by what we read on forums etc. and forget to check things ourselves.

I use filters on most of my lenses. Primarily to stop me having to clean the front elements (and risk scratching them in the process) more often. I'm more concerned about finger prints or marks than impact damage. I've never tested the IQ with verses without - there are so many more important basic things you need to worry about before worrying about the filter. Obviously if you are having problems you should remove them and investigate.

My exceptions are lenses that can't take filters (fisheyes) or my large diameter medium format lenses where decent filters would be prohibitively expensive (an 82mm would in some cases cost as much as the [used] lens that's already had 20yrs of abuse by others).

However, there is a correct use for UV filters, they allow you to cut through haze a bit better, useful in aerial photography.

John.

I'll agree with everyone

There's a time and place for the use of protective filters but for everyday use they should be left off, as far as dirt goes it doesn't stick to lenses like the DA*s with the special coating, had my 16-50 and 50-135 for probably 4-5 years and never had to give them a "proper" clean, even the odd fingermarks seem to disappear with the light wipe of a lens cloth.

Here's my take on the matter: http://blog.danielbridge.co.uk/2012/03/uv-or-not-uv.html

Also, this last week I've had a couple of lenses on loan; one a DA*, one which has the new HD coating. Both have suffered smeared front elements as a result of my 3 year old, the DA* receiving some yogurt, the HD lens some banana. Both cleaned up fine with no problems at all.

The moral of this story? Don't lend me a lens.

Dan

Daniel wrote:

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Exactly my sentiments: use a lens hood.

However, I don't think I will try the hammer test.

Regards, Horst

Well said, Dan

Only a couple of months ago I started a topic about uv filters as it happens one did break on my lens what a mess small bits of glass al over the shop must have happened in the camera bag which was in the back of the car I was lucky this time don't use them now.

Regards Dave

In my case camera with lens rolled slowly off the top of my bag (8 inches?) onto a thickly carpeted floor. fragments of expensive filter embedded in front element. Lesson learned.

Why would you not always aim for the absolute best photo you can take :

Personally I would rather run the (slight) risk of damage than knowingly take pictures that might not be my best effort.

Sometimes I take snaps, general photos as if I was using a point and shoot. I actually put the camera on 'auto' (yes I know I'm going to get therapy) and click away just trying to capture basic images to remind me of where I've been. I even take them through train, plane and car windows!

Other times, when I can take the time, I consider the composition and the lighting, I put the camera on manual and pretend I'm a proper photographer. I even import the images into LR and adjust things to try and make it better.

Sorry if that doesn't match everybody's high standards but that's just me

I only ever use a UV filter if i think the situation requires it. Such as down the beach with salty water or on a lens that has no hood.
I had a Canon lens damaged in a museum by a clumsy oaf with a rucksack a few years ago. Barged by and the metal buckles ran across the lens. Lovely scratch across the coating. I didn't have a hood for my nifty fifty, really wish i had a UV filter fitted that day. But on the whole i agree with others, no UV filter is my way too.

I never use UV filters. IMO they're akin to expensive cables with hi-fi equipment - another way for dealers to part you from your money.

UV or Skylight filters - no. I've found tendency to pick up internal reflections. (I sold hundreds in my camera shop film era days at Campkins)

Lens hoods - always

Lens cap - always in bag, rarely when in use unless dust in air.

Other filters, ND, Grad ND and polarising - rarely but I have them in my bag

Fine dust when travelling in warmer countries by far and away the greatest concern.