Do you use filters during concerts ?

[MFNO]

Hi

I own different lenses, some of them are quite expensive, and I would like to avoid their front lens being damaged. The lens cap is usually on, but still...

As I'm doing a lot of concert photo, I would like to know if neutral filters (no UV haze or anything) could end up in bad optic effects or anything on pictures for concerts photography ? I mean, I guess on daytime, for landscape or anything, those filters are specifically made so that the pictures are as good with the filter on. But I'm wondering if with low light, spot lights in various directions, different colours, etc... maybe there are other effects I should fear ?

I hope my explanations are clear, I'm not English or American, and I don't speak English perfectly...

Thank you.

[René Damkot]

No filters at any time.
Hood 24/7.

By the way: UV filters are mostly used as "Neutral" filters, for "protection". (Which, IMO, they don't offer, except for flying liquids and maybe sand, if you're on a beach)

In my experience, any filter *will* add flare in a performing arts environment.

Protective Filter FAQ (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=368177)

[johnms88]

I can not imagine the lens flare you would get using a filter (especially a less than top of the line one) during a concert. As long as you are not reckless, you will not damage your front lens.

If you are in a situation where somethings going to be happening that could easily do real damage, then you need to weigh if you should even be there cause a lot of force is needed to damage a lens element if you have a hood on. As long as you keep the hood on and dont drop the thing, you definitely shouldnt be too worried.

[blackshadow]

Using filters for concert photography is like leaving your pants on to have sex.

[johnms88]

Using filters for concert photography is like leaving your pants on to have sex.

bw!

[Jacob Dinesen]

I can not imagine the lens flare you would get using a filter (especially a less than top of the line one) during a concert. As long as you are not reckless, you will not damage your front lens.

If you are in a situation where somethings going to be happening that could easily do real damage, then you need to weigh if you should even be there cause a lot of force is needed to damage a lens element if you have a hood on. As long as you keep the hood on and dont drop the thing, you definitely shouldnt be too worried.

I always use UV/protection filters. Lens flare is an issue, even with good filters, but if you are careful it should not be too bad.

Still though I think it is worth it. I have no count of how many times I have been hit with beer/water/petroleum/fireworks; you name it. All sorts of stuff flyes around at concerts and it is almost impossible to dodge it all. If you place yourself in a moshpit you will get hit by shoes and so and it is definately nice not having to worry about glass.
Add too that if you only have a couple of songs to make the pictures its nice to be able to use a tshirt or whatever is within reach to wipe off liquid - no worries about scratching the front lens. The same goes for festivals during the summer - it will rain and both you and your gear will be soaked but once again...its nice to be able to quickly clear the filter with a tshirt or so.