B+W UV Filter
Mar 24, 2018 09:08:55 #
Hello would like to get your opinion on the use of a B+W UV filter. I am new to photography and was just wondering if it was necessary to get one.
Mar 24, 2018 09:17:15 #
gvarner
Loc: Central Oregon Coast
From what I've read, there's not much need for filters in digital photography. I use UV filters to protect my lens elements. A polarizer for glare or ND filters to reduce dynamic range can be useful when taking a photo but most filter effects can be applied in post.
Mar 24, 2018 09:20:05 #
tonyi wrote:
Hello would like to get your opinion on the use of a B+W UV filter. I am new to photography and was just wondering if it was necessary to get one.
The consensus is mostly both Yes and No. But if you do buy a UV for protection, which is all it might be good for, definitely B+W is the brand most of us. And I buy in any filters today. I keep UV, 1A, 1B filters on all my lenses but I often take them off indoors when shooting. There is no need to filter out UV light at the lens for digital cameras, that was for film.
Mar 24, 2018 09:21:38 #
Just my thought, but if you feel you want it for lens protection, as well as UV, go ahead with the purchase.
Mar 24, 2018 09:29:58 #
tonyi wrote:
Hello would like to get your opinion on the use of a B+W UV filter. I am new to photography and was just wondering if it was necessary to get one.
I use B&W UV filters on all of my lenses. They are not necessary as most people will tell you but I like them because they keep dust, dirt, and other contaminants off of the front elements of my lenses and I would rather clean a filter than the front element of my lenses. B&W are top quality filters and are reasonably priced but have little or no effect on your photos. I like them simply for the protection they provide for my expensive lenses.
Mar 24, 2018 09:38:22 #
Thank you for the responses. I think I’ll go ahead with the purchase. Thanks everyone.
Mar 24, 2018 10:02:09 #
The only real function of a UV filter is to 'protect' the lens. It may have some benefit in high mountain settings. I have B+W clear filters for all of my lenses because I would prefer to be cleaning dust, sand and general crud off a replaceable filter than an expensive lens surface. If I'm taking a particularly special shot I'll take the filter off and go bareback even though I can't really detect any difference in IQ. Get the 'nano' coated filters for easier cleaning. Note that with B+H, the 010 series are 'clear UV' and the 007 are 'clear'. I prefer the 007.
If you don't have one already, consider getting a Circular Polarizing Filter (CPR) instead. When used correctly, a CPR helps to enrich colors,enhance skies and reduce glare off water etc. There is a knack to using them for full effect and they are not for every situation but you will find that you can leave it on enough to give your lens the same protection as a UV filter. B+H is a good brand, or if you want a more exotic 'new kid on the block' try Breakthrough Photography.
If you don't have one already, consider getting a Circular Polarizing Filter (CPR) instead. When used correctly, a CPR helps to enrich colors,enhance skies and reduce glare off water etc. There is a knack to using them for full effect and they are not for every situation but you will find that you can leave it on enough to give your lens the same protection as a UV filter. B+H is a good brand, or if you want a more exotic 'new kid on the block' try Breakthrough Photography.
Mar 24, 2018 10:03:22 #
B+W also makes clear filters in place of UV filters if you are just going for protection. I have a number of B+W filters and they are excellent.
Mar 24, 2018 10:26:53 #
I have always used B+W, but recently discovered Breakthrough and really like them. Especially in ND. They have less color cast than anything I have ever used, and I have a set of Lee's. Plus, they are guaranteed for 25 years. The cost is a bit more than B+W, but they might be a consideration.
Bill
Bill
Mar 24, 2018 10:59:45 #
Mar 25, 2018 07:02:53 #
gvarner wrote:
From what I've read, there's not much need for filters in digital photography. I use UV filters to protect my lens elements. A polarizer for glare or ND filters to reduce dynamic range can be useful when taking a photo but most filter effects can be applied in post.
Mar 25, 2018 09:19:54 #
My opinion is that you do not need it. I am sure you know that camera stores push the sale of this filter for "protection" of the front element of a lens but the best protection you could give to those front elements are the lens cap and the lens hood.
A common problem with filters in general is that if they get dirty and they stay on the lens they will ruin your images. Filters of low quality will also adversely affect the images made by the camera.
I have never used a UV filter for "protection."
A common problem with filters in general is that if they get dirty and they stay on the lens they will ruin your images. Filters of low quality will also adversely affect the images made by the camera.
I have never used a UV filter for "protection."
Mar 25, 2018 09:28:23 #
camerapapi wrote:
My opinion is that you do not need it. I am sure y... (show quote)
If I am not mistaken some Canon L lens specify the need for a front filter to complete their weatherproof status. Don't know about others.
Bill
Mar 25, 2018 10:09:40 #
jbk224
Loc: Long Island, NY
camerapapi wrote:
I have never used a UV filter for "protection."
I have never used a UV filter for "protection."
I have and do. Twice, the 'clear' filter protected my lens. I also buy B&W. The lens hood is not always on and the lens cap is worthless against impact. Little price to pay for extra piece of mind.
Mar 25, 2018 10:44:39 #
Yes, but purchase a good quality one. I've used B+W filters on all of my lenses for years. There are few times when the filter should be removed for photographing, but mine stay on the lenses 98% of the time. They provide a modicum of protection, which I value.
--Bob
--Bob
tonyi wrote:
Hello would like to get your opinion on the use of a B+W UV filter. I am new to photography and was just wondering if it was necessary to get one.
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