lamiaceae wrote:
I concur with Longshadow. Depending on diameter expect to pay > $50 for a new filter that is highest quality. I buy B+W (Schneider) brand filters.
Yes you want good optical quality filters with proper anti-flare coatings ,and B+W are some of the best quality ones.
And to add to the endless debate, I am a professional photojournalist of over 50 years in the business, who has shot all subjects around the world. All of my top quality lenses have good optical quality filters over them. These filters offer more direct intrusion protection than just lens hoods alone (yes I use my lens hoods) , and many times over my career these filters have saved my front elements from scratches, debris and grit damage, and even being shattered, as the filters and their meta rings absorbed some of the intrusion impact.
And when I go to sell or trade these lenses, I remove the filter and I have a pristine front element, giving my lenses more sale value.
Furthermore, the best top optical quality filters will not degrade your image quality in spite of what some think. The only objective and independent test of this, using top quality B+W filters found only an imperceptible 0.03% difference in image quality. I have never lost a client, never lost a publication, never lost a worldwide photo contest due to my use of top optical quality filters over my lenses, EVER. But these filters have saved my lenses and proved their value.
Just two examples of the millions of professional images I have made over the decades, with B+W filters over my lenses. You decide if there is an image quality loss, even with UHH compression. Click on download to see best IQ.
1) The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California, USA. 61MP Sony A7RIV, Sigma Art 24-70mm f2.8 DG DN lens, 24mm, ISO 200, f8, 1/80 sec, handheld. B+W UV filter
2) A Snowy Egret takes off from its watery perch on caribbean Island of Sint Maarten/St. Martin. 50mp Sony A1, Sony 200-600mm lens, 319mm, ISO 1600, f6.3, 1/4000 sec., handheld. B+W UV filter
Cheers and best to you.