UV Filters

Hello all.
Following a couple of recent threads about UV filters, where different people gave differing opinions about their preference, I thought I will do a simple poll to see how many use them and how many don't.
Thanks for voting.

Your poll is flawed and will reveal nothing.

I have UV/Skylight filters to fit almost every lens I own and use them selectively such as around salt water or abrasive dust. So I use them and I don't use them.

Good point Ken! The question should have been "I ALWAYS use a UV/skylight filter".

As I think this is what the OP meant to ask, I've answered "no".

same interpretation as Pentaxophile, so +1

Steve

Never use them.

Points taken, all.
Yes the question should have been 'I always use a UV/Skylight filter'. Don't know if I can change the poll now though!

Sadly, nobody can, but your explanation will suffice I'm sure. It looks quite positive so far, tending towards a No vote....

+1

Thanks for clarifying, so a 'no' from me.

Ever tried to fit one on a fisheye?

I'm eagerly awaiting delivery of a UV transmitting filter (blocks visible). When that comes I hope I'll give it some use .
I do have standard UV filters for most (not quite all) my lenses, though I don't normally use them. The last time I was photographing near sea spray I didn't have one with me...

Sometimes I'd like to get a couple of camera bags big enough for all my kit, along with a Sherpa or two to carry it! Fortunately it's not too often I find I need something that's back at home.

The coatings on the lens already cuts the UV quite a bit and there is a filter also on the sensor that cuts it as well so to put a third filter on it to remove the UV sounds like an overkill to me.

I tend to have one in place most of the time - Then I remove it to maybe use a CPL or ND then forget to replace it, or as it's in my pocket somewhere and probably needs de-dusting. When I get home I put it back on.
As to why - I've no idea I was told (taught?) many years ago that it would protect the lens.
I have noticed that flare is sometimes attributed to this filter being in place especially when shooting close to the sun angle.

regards
Bernard

That's true, (very) old lenses often have a "soft" front element or coating so a filter takes care of that but now a days the front coatings are very tough so there is no need for the filter anymore. The front elements/coatings now are even tougher than the UV filter since the filter is only a thin piece of glass or plastic so don't expect much protection besides against corrosive materials.

I had got into the habit of using them in my film days, and when I got my K30, carried on using them.

Now I find myself removing them with the lens cap.