Question about UV filters: I have read many opinions about the pros and cons of adding a UV filter to a lens for protection. I have seen them priced from $10.00 to almost $300.00. I...

NealB Loc: Lowell Indiana

I have read many opinions about the pros and cons of adding a UV filter to a lens for protection. I have seen them priced from $10.00 to almost $300.00. I just purchased a Sigma 150-500mm lens and am unsure if I need to buy one (86mm) and how much to spend if I do. All opinions welcome. Thank you.

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

FAQ: Which Photographic Filters for Digital Photography?
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-26502-1.html

"A UV Filter is used to reduce haziness created by ultraviolet light, to which photographic film and sensors are sensitive, but not the human eye. A UV filter passes all or most of the visual spectrum, and blocks ultraviolet radiation. UV filter quality is important."
Read more here: http://www.lenstip.com/113.4-article-UV_filters_test_Description_of_the_results_and_summary.html

Haydon

Here's a reputable source with testing.

http://www.lenstip.com/113.1-article-UV_filters_test.html

NealB Loc: Lowell Indiana

Nikonian72 wrote:

b FAQ: Which Photographic Filters for Digital Pho... (show quote)

Thanks I will get to reading.

NealB Loc: Lowell Indiana

Haydon wrote:

Here's a reputable source with testing.

http://www.lenstip.com/113.1-article-UV_filters_test.html

Thanks that is quite an article. It should keep me busy for a while.

Rongnongno Loc: FL

NealB wrote:

I have read many opinions about the pros and cons of adding a UV filter to a lens for protection. I have seen them priced from $10.00 to almost $300.00. I just purchased a Sigma 150-500mm lens and am unsure if I need to buy one (86mm) and how much to spend if I do. All opinions welcome. Thank you.

If you have seen the pros and cons of UV filters why are you not able to make up your mind?

RichardSM Loc: Back in Texas

NealB wrote:

I have read many opinions about the pros and cons of adding a UV filter to a lens for protection. I have seen them priced from $10.00 to almost $300.00. I just purchased a Sigma 150-500mm lens and am unsure if I need to buy one (86mm) and how much to spend if I do. All opinions welcome. Thank you.

Hello Neal

Forget the uv for protection use the lens hood for the front of your len's for protection. But if want a glass type filter get a CLEAR GLASS one from Hoya or B+W.

Nikonian72 Loc: Chico CA

NealB - You are under no obligation to answer any questions concerning your motives for more info.
There are many of us here willing to assist in your learning, and then there are others.

NealB Loc: Lowell Indiana

Nikonian72 wrote:

NealB - You are under no obligation to answer any questions concerning your motives for more info.
There are many of us here willing to assist in your learning, and then there are others.

Thanks I am just trying to balance the plus and minus in my mind since this lens purchase was considerable for me and I am not experienced in this hobby. If I was still young and dumb I would throw all caution to the wind, but I am older and wiser so I like to limit the chances that I do something stupid. I have jumped into this hobby with both feet since starting in April so I just need a reality check every now and then. I know most of the folks on the UHH are good hearted and helpful. I have dealt with some of them and they are honest and straight forward.

NealB Loc: Lowell Indiana

RichardSM wrote:

Hello Neal

Forget the uv for protection use the lens hood for the front of your len's for protection. But if want a glass type filter get a CLEAR GLASS one from Hoya or B+W.

So I guess I was misinformed on what type of filter was needed for protection. It was a good thing I decided not to buy the filter recommended by the sales person at the camera store last weekend.

rook2c4 Loc: Philadelphia, PA USA

In most (but not all) situations, the difference between a cheap and an expensive UV filter is negligible. This is easy enough to test: buy a cheap filter. Shoot with the filter on, then without the filter. Compare the results. Keep in mind, a lens with an expensive filter cannot perform any better than the same lens with no filter at all.

RichardSM Loc: Back in Texas

NealB wrote:

So I guess I was misinformed on what type of filter was needed for protection. It was a good thing I decided not to buy the filter recommended by the sales person at the camera store last weekend.

Hi Neal

Good for you on your decision not purchasing a UV filter, but as I said on my previous post would be a better way to go! I My self don't use UV filters for protection a len's hoods work for most of the time if I'm in a area where its dusty or salt water I use a clear glass for protection.

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

Nikonian72 wrote:

NealB - You are under no obligation to answer any questions concerning your motives for more info.
There are many of us here willing to assist in your learning, and then there are others.

:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Guy Johnstone Loc: Ocean Shores WA

I think the mount is as important as the glass. B+W/Schneider Kreuznach use only brass. I have never had one get stuck. I have seen lots of the aluminum seize.

BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

Nikonian72 wrote:

NealB - You are under no obligation to answer any questions concerning your motives for more info.
There are many of us here willing to assist in your learning, and then there are others.

Thank you for saying what I (and I hope a lot more members) was thinking!