lindmike

My question regards filters. Specifically the circular polarizer and the UV filter. When do I use either and is it advisable to "stack" filters? Which one attaches to the lens first?

Thanks in advance for the input...

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

"Stacking" is usually unnecessary. If you do, always install your fixed filters first, followed by the operable ones.

lindmike

Thanks for the response. I guess you mean install the UV filter first and then the Circular Polarizer?

Bill Emmett Loc: Bow, New Hampshire

First off there are several schools of thought about this exact subject. Secondly, you should take a look at the search function of this forum to sort through all the previous questions of this nature. Thirdly, my feelings to answer your question is to stack the filters. UV filter add nothing to the quality of the image, with exception of sometimes removing some of the haze in some shots, but is mostly used to protect the outer element of the actual lens from impact, scratches, and blown sand or dirt. Fourth, the adding a CP filter will possibly add some vignetting to the image, if the lens is a ultra wide angle. This is because the stacked UV, and CP add the thickness of their mounts to the angle of view to the lens. The Vignetting is visible as a dark ring around the image. There are thin wafer type mounts for these filter, but this adds to the cost of the filters, and on CP filters it may reduce your ability to rotate the filter without putting finger prints on the filter element. Actually, depending on your use of the filters, it is decision the photographer has to make. When to use the filters, I have a UV, or clear glass on all my lenses for protection. I install a CP filter when there is a possibly of either glare from the background, subject, or foreground and if I am shooting in a sunny locations where the sun is on a 90 degree plane to my shot. A CP filter will reduce the amount of light by up to two stops, so you must plan when to use a CP filter. I have never used a CP filter indoors, at like a church or hall, but do use a clear glass filter, or UV filter to protect my lens. I have had people shove a fork of cake into the lens for a shot, and got it all over the filter. Clean that off. It happened at a friends 65th birthday.

Bill

wlgoode Loc: Globe, AZ

UV does nothing except cost $$ IMHO.

lindmike

Thanks for the great advise. I have done some experimenting with the two filters and have discovered exactly what you said. There is considerable difference in stops with the circular polarizer. I think only to be used outdoors when conditions dictate. The UV will be used solely as lens glass protection and expecting nothing in the way of increased results.

Thanks again.

rook2c4 Loc: Philadelphia, PA USA

...unless you're shooting film of course. Then I'll use a UV filter for most outdoor photogrpahy, especially for landscapes.

olcoach Loc: Oregon

I don't think there is a filter made that doesn't in some larger or smaller way degrade the image. The best glass is in your lens and shooting through inferior glass has a price.

wlgoode Loc: Globe, AZ

Not quite as worthless on film.