How to pick which Filter xxmm

[wonton]

I want to get a UV, cirular polarizer, and neutral density filter. The lens will the be "kit" lens of the rebel 18-55mm. I am also going to get a 70-300mm lens. How do I know which filter to use? They range from 37 - 77mm. Which one should I get and why?

[Europa]

If you want only 1 filter of each type buy them in the largest size (77mm) & use step up rings of the appropriate lower sizes to the 77mm size.

[jaypie77]

Every lens has a certain filter size that will fit. Look at the end of your lens (not the end that meets the camera) and you should see some info and numbers on it. The number you want is preceeded by a symbol that looks like a zero with a line through it (the kit lens filter size is 58mm).

On preview: you could follow the advice to buy the biggest filters and use step-up rings, but that is a major pain in the rear.

[wonton]

OK...thanks a lot for the info. Sorry, kinda new at this stuff.

[Jon]

On preview: you could follow the advice to buy the biggest filters and use step-up rings, but that is a major pain in the rear.
Especially if you want to use a lens hood, too!

[mbze430]

Note also, with very wide angle lens, you'll want to stay away from step-up or down adapters as well as normal filters. You'll need a ultra thin filter for these type of lens, or else you'll get vignetting.

[Jon]

Vignetting is unlikely to be a problem with any EF lens on a DR, and probably only with the 10-22 of the EF-S line.

[pierrot]

Vignetting is unlikely to be a problem with any EF lens on a DR, and probably only with the 10-22 of the EF-S line.
Not even! I've a normal (threaded) filter and get no vignetting ;)

[CoolToolGuy]

Vignetting is unlikely to be a problem with any EF lens on a DR, and probably only with the 10-22 of the EF-S line.

I have noticed vignetting with the EF-S 17-85 IS when using a UV/C-POL stack. And these were both B+W F-PRO filters (B+W's thinnest with a front thread). I went to a Hoya Pro-1 to get as thin as possible while retaining the front thread.

Back to the original question: Canon EF lenses tend to use common filter sizes - 52mm, 58mm, 67mm (just a few), 72mm (again, a few) and 77mm. I don't know how the off-brands do on this. I would get the 'real' size for your UV so you don't hinder the use of the hood. Go with step-up for the C-POL and others if necessary.

Have Fun,

[Jon]

I have noticed vignetting with the EF-S 17-85 IS when using a UV/C-POL stack. And these were both B+W F-PRO filters (B+W's thinnest with a front thread). I went to a Hoya Pro-1 to get as thin as possible while retaining the front thread.

Stacking can cause vignetting in situations that single filters won't because even the thinnest stacked filters (especially when a polarizer's involved) add up to more than a sngle filter. But stacking's less desirable in any case since it adds an extra pair of air-glass interfaces that may introduce flare or distortion.

[Citizensmith]

A good suggestion would be go to the b&H web site and look for your lenses there. Under each lens will be a list of accessories which always includes a few filters of the correct size for that lens.