Scratch on a CPL Filter: I usually shoot outside with a cir pol filter. Last year I bought a used 16-35 mm zoom lens on Ebay with a different filter size than I already owned, and...

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Scratch on a CPL Filter

Mar 26, 2017 09:30:37 #

DRG777 Loc: Metro Detroit

I usually shoot outside with a cir pol filter. Last year I bought a used 16-35 mm zoom lens on Ebay with a different filter size than I already owned, and figured I would need to get a new CPL filter for it. I was surprised when the lens arrived and had a CPL filter on it already. It is a 'Breakthrough Photography' X1, and it has a faint scratch on it, about 1/2 in long, about half way from the center to the rim, running parallel to the rim. The scratch seems to be only in the outer coating, not in the glass. I have tried a couple test shots with it, and do not see anything from the scratch. So the question is, will I be OK to use this filter, or should I get a new one?

Mar 26, 2017 09:38:28 #

PixelStan77 Loc: Vermont/Chicago

DRG777 wrote:

I usually shoot outside with a cir pol filter. Las... (show quote)

If it was me, I would get a new one. Depending upon how the light hits the scratch and how deep it is, it can diffract and cause a defect in the image. And then you can go into LR or PS and fix it.

Mar 26, 2017 09:42:13 #

jim quist Loc: Missouri

I would buy a new one because it would drive me crazy just knowing it was there, but you should be okay with it. The lens will focus beyond the scratch. I wouldn't worry about it unless you see a problem.
Now I will sit back and let the people who know what they are really talking about let me have it and give you a hundred technical reasons to replace it.

Mar 26, 2017 09:43:21 #

cthahn

You just said you took several pictures and do not see any problem. Why would you want to purchase a new one?

Mar 26, 2017 10:29:36 #

Manglesphoto Loc: 70 miles south of St.Louis

jim quist wrote:

I agree on all counts.

Mar 26, 2017 11:45:02 #

DRG777 Loc: Metro Detroit

cthahn wrote:

You just said you took several pictures and do not see any problem. Why would you want to purchase a new one?

My test shots were not under a wide range of light conditions or directions, and might have missed conditions that would demonstrate a problem. With some online research, i have learned that the X1 grade of filter is the cheapest one, so I will probably get something better. Breakthrough Photography has an X4 CPL that they claim is the best available @ $149. The next contender would be B+W XS-Pro HTC at $95.50, or Hoya Pro1 at $61. Thoughts on those?

Mar 27, 2017 08:56:25 #

Ranjan Loc: Currently Cyber-Nation!

DRG777,

From what I have read a blemish (small/shallow scratch/dust etc) on the rear element of a lens is more degrading for the image than one at the front end (front element/filter etc).

Mar 27, 2017 09:21:48 #

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

DRG777 wrote:

I usually shoot outside with a cir pol filter. Las... (show quote)

Take lots of test shots before wasting your money.

http://photographylife.com/what-to-do-with-dust-inside-lens
http://kurtmunger.com/dirty_lens_articleid35.html
http://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2008/10/front-element-scratches

Polarizers - priced in Polish currency. I use Hoya with Xume magnetic adapters.

http://www.lenstip.com/index.php?art=139
http://www.lenstip.com/139.25-article-Polarizing_filters_test_2015_Results_and_summary.html

Mar 29, 2017 10:24:26 #

wizbird Loc: Burnt Store Marina, Punta Gorda, Fl

That is an expensive filter. Try using it and see if you can note any signs of scratch in photo. Chances are it will be OK. What do you have to lose by trying it?

Mar 29, 2017 11:40:33 #

rook2c4 Loc: Philadelphia, PA USA

Unlike a chip or crack, a scratch will have virtually no impact on your images. However, some photographers refuse to use any filter that is in less than pristine condition, no matter how minor the flaw. Who knows how many perfectly functional filters have ended up in the trash because of this unreasonable mindset.

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