Annie-Get-Your-Gun Loc: Byron Center, Mi

I'm thinking of buying a filter or filters. Was wondering what some of them do and if they're expensive. Perhaps some of my Hog friends can enlighten me. I'd appreciate any information.

Bill_de Loc: US

https://photographylife.com/lens-filters-explained

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rmalarz Loc: Tempe, Arizona

Yes, I use them almost constantly. Plain glass for the most part, polarizers a lot of the time, and neutral density some of the time. Additionally, I use A25, X1, and Y2 for some work. All are B+W. They cost more, but knowing the quality of product and manufacture, they are my first choice.

There is a Variable Neutral Density filter, as well. Several companies make them. However, my advice is to avoid them. They have inherent problems that are unpredictable. This was explained to me by a B+W optics engineer.
--Bob

Annie-Get-Your-Gun Loc: Byron Center, Mi

Thank you for giving me that site, Bill. That's a lot of information to swallow. There's a lot to consider when choosing a filter(s).

Bill_de Loc: US

It is a lot, but I figured it would be better than getting it in dribs and drabs from pages of posts.

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Annie-Get-Your-Gun Loc: Byron Center, Mi

Thanks, Bob. I just looked at a link given me and it was loaded with information on filters. There's sure a lot to consider when choosing a filter. I think a glass one is out of reach because of the cost.

Mac Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.

It makes no sense to put a cheap filter on a good lens.

rjaywallace Loc: Wisconsin

Do you know what size filters, the lens on your camera takes?

CO

You definitely don't want plastic filters. It's a step down from the optical quality glass of the lens. B+W definitely makes top quality filters but you don't have to spend quite that much and still get excellent quality. Hoya makes excellent quality filters. Nikon makes their own circular polarizers that are excellent quality. I use Hoya neutral density filters and a Nikon circular polarizer.

What type of filter do you have in mind? What will you be using it for?

Leicaflex Loc: Cymru

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

Because there are hundreds of choices for filters it would be hard to give an answer that covers them all. A tutorial might help you out. Like this one. Or just google this "photography filters and how to use them"
https://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0LEV1IKLQhaVsYAUjBXNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTEya2NuZHJyBGNvbG8DYmYxBHBvcwMxBHZ0aWQDQjQ4NTRfMQRzZWMDc2M-?p=types+of+photography+filters+and+there+use&fr=mcafee

SusanFromVermont Loc: Southwest corner of Vermont

Definitely learn what they do before purchasing any. That way you will actually use them! And I totally agree with the statement that there is no sense in buying a cheap filter that will not give the best results. Another thing to learn is the differences between different versions of the same thing by reading specifications, descriptions, and the manufacturer's descriptions. There are filters that are VERY expensive, but not being a professional, I have never considered buying them.

In my opinion, the basic filters to have are a circular polarizer and a graduated neutral density filter. The circular polarizer will reduce reflections [water, shiny surfaces] if used correctly, and deepen colors. [Purchased in the size that fits your lens - B+W is what I use, good quality filter and the ring is brass.] The graduated neutral density filter will let you take a photo of a scene where one part is brighter than the other [sunrise, sunset] but it will not compensate for uneven horizons - that has to be done in post processing. [Purchased in a rectangular shape which can be used hand-held or with a holder that screws into the front of the lens - I use SinghRay which is a good quality.] As for the UV filters [clear glass], some people use them all the time, but they are not really necessary unless shooting in conditions where dirt or sand is blowing around - I have some but they seldom leave the camera bag. Your lens cap and lens hood provide plenty of protection under normal circumstances.

tomad Loc: North Carolina

I have always used a lens protection filter, UV haze or skylight. The only other filter I use a lot is a polarizer. You could start with that and go from there.

Jim Bob

You ain’t never lied.

Annie-Get-Your-Gun Loc: Byron Center, Mi

I didn't have anything in mind because I didn't know squat about them. The information I've been getting has been helpful. I want them for my NIKON D3400. I have a very good camera store (Norman's) in Grand Rapids and I will see what they have to say. If they weren't so expensive the decision would be easy - glass. Thank you again for the info you've been kind enough to provide. 📷