Filters To Filter or Not to Filter

[Renegade Viewfinder]

So I know they are relatively cheap lenses but its still cash cant afford to waste. That being said, what filter does everyone have on their lenses. I want to prevent messing up my glass but also still get sharp images. I hope to do more portrait work and was wondering if a ND filter would effect images negatively. Sorry I type like I speak all over the place any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[dmiller68]

I always put a UV filter on my lens. Since it is just protection. I think a ND filter would add an effect you may not want.

 

[Renegade Viewfinder]

Thanks for the info really appreciate it.

 

[Robbie_B]

I too usually have a UV filter on lenses just as added protection for the front element, although with a hood fitted it is probably not really necessary. A polariser or ND permanently on the lens would not be a good idea.

 

[DaveTX]

The coatings on modern lenses are very tough. If you keep a lens hood on your lens you shouldn't need to worry about damaging the objective. Adding a layer of glass, even if it is a high quality one, will degrade your image quality. That said, if you are shooting in an environment where something like gravel is being thrown around, sure, add a sacrificial filter to take the blows.

 

[TMac99]

Another vote for a permanent UV filter for lens protection.

 

[Heilo]

On smaller lenses like my 50mm or 85mm with no hood I keep a UV filter on just for protection. My larger lenses like 16-35, 24-70 or 70-200 all have lens hoods. Keeps anything from contacting the lens. An ND filter would push your shutter speeds and ISO higher than they need for normal shots. Could cause you to introduce noise that you don’t want.

 

[Mantis55]

Hood only for me plus being ultra careful, nobody else touching or borrowing

 

[AnsibleMedia]

I just use the lens hoods to act as lens protection. Lens cap for when it goes in the bag. I've dropped my RF 24-105 a couple times now, and other than some scuffs on the lens hood its in mint shape.

Even a good quality UV filter can lead to weird flares in certain light, never much saw the point personally.

 

[KEN_A]

I have fitted a protect filter on my expensive L lenses. Basically clear optical glass which doesn't appear to cause issues. However, have a lens hood fitted at all times so I suppose, as others have said, a filter is not really required.