UV Filter?

[Borreicho]

I've recently ordered a G3. I haven't got the camera just yet! (I was told it would be delivered this week!!! YUPI!!! :) ) Before buying it I joined this forum. You guys convinced me! Ok... my question:

What effect does the UV filter have on pictures taken? I've heard you also use it to protect the main lens. Is that all it does? (I'm guessing it isn't)

Thank's!

[tarzan]

quoted from www.lensmateonline.com

"UV filter - Improves contrast color saturation by reducing the effects of ultraviolet light, atmospheric dust and haze in sunny landscapes. Can be used to protect front lens element."

[Deckyon]

Basically, most people use it to protect the lens. When I used to carry my Nikon SLR, I always had 3 UV filters with me. On one trip alone to Scotland/Ireland I scratched up 2 of them. Better a $25 filter than a $700 telephoto lens.

However, the UV filter will help cut down on haze. I have noticed a difference when I use it, and when I dont. Also, when I shoot during the day outside, I have a circular polarizer filter on as well. I recommend the circular polarizer (which usually costs more than the linear polarizer) because you can vary the amount of polarization. I can really tighten down on the water and reflections with it. The UV and circ polar filters in combination really cut the haze as well.

Worth looking into.

[jglisson73]

Many people leave the lens adapter and a uv filter on all the time. I would like to do this, but the internal flash is blocked significantly at full wide-angle. So...until I get an external flash, I use the filters for day shots, and take it off for low light/flash photography.

John

[ryuwulf]

I second the above statements.

:)


I just leave mine(UV filter) on all the time. It is supposed to help but after 3 years of SLR photography, i still cant tell the difference.

A skylight filter will show some difference in reducing haze.

I buy sunpak because they are super cheap. I bought my UV and Cpolarizer for 15 bucks. Generic brand but decent results.

[Borreicho]

And all I need is the lens adapter LA-DC58B that can be used with all 58mm filters.

Thank's you all!

[hypokondriak]

After talking with Scott (who takes some of the best pictures on the G3 board IMO), I have decided to stop using the UV filter. I have come to the conclusion that the only benefit it provides is protecting my lens, but I'm careful with the camera anyway. That being said, from a technical standpoint I have eliminated the filter under the theory that the less glass there is the better.

I think either way you'll be fine, really,...

[PFlor]

hypokondriak wrote:
After talking with Scott (who takes some of the best pictures on the G3 board IMO), I have decided to stop using the UV filter. I have come to the conclusion that the only benefit it provides is protecting my lens, but I'm careful with the camera anyway. That being said, from a technical standpoint I have eliminated the filter under the theory that the less glass there is the better.

I think either way you'll be fine, really,...

Funny, it was also Scott (SDommin) who made me rethink about using a UV filter at all. Before this I did some comparison tests with (using a Hoya SMC UV) and without the filter. Under very close examination the UV filter added a very slight yellow/brown cast which tended to make the image look slightly darker. This is not always noticeable in outdoor shots but more obvious in low-light, indoor pictures, especially when there are a lot of white walls. As far as loss of detail with the filter, I couldn't really tell a difference.

So my conclusion: there's really nothing wrong with leaving a UV filter all the time as long it's of high quality - ie. Hoya SMC or B+W MRC. But for the most part I will now keep it off and only put it on when protection is really necessary.

[sdommin]

PFlor wrote:
hypokondriak wrote:
After talking with Scott

Funny, it was also Scott (SDommin) who made me rethink about using a UV filter at all.

Ahhh...

So someone DID hear my rantings!