UV filter?

[britt777]

I need some advice. I currentley am taking a photo class and I have been advised that not using a UV filter is best. The less lens the camera has to focus through the better. I have been advised that I should only us a UV filter if around alot of sand or something that may affect the lens, but I have had many say this theory is rediculous and that my lens may get harmed. Any input on this matter would be greatly appreciated.:D

[defordphoto]

It's a personal choice. I use UVs on all my lenses. Some think you're killing babies if you use a UV. I call it cheap insurance, though sometimes I do remove them when in a very difficult lighting shot.

[SkipD]

Britt, a good lens hood is all you normally need, in my opinion. I've got quite a few high quality lenses that are nearly 40 years old and none of them have ever had filters on them for "protection". The glass in every one of them is in nearly mint condition. The lens hoods that I have used have provided protection against both stray light and impact.

If I were going to take photographs in a sandstorm I would likely think about putting a good quality clear filter on the lens, but I haven't photographed anything in sandstorms.

[defordphoto]

And yes, hoods are a must.

[britt777]

great! that makes me feel so much better. I just went to Disney World and had a man take my picture and the first thing he said was how nice my camera and lens were but how I must get a filter for it to protect it. I have had so many people say that and felt I was doing a bad thing. I do use a hood but not always. Is it ok to use a hood even in lower light conditions?

[SkipD]

To reiterate what Jim said - ALWAYS use a lens hood. As an example of why - in 1968 I dropped one of my cameras onto a sidewalk while moving around photographing the Grand Prix of Monaco. The lens hood was folded in, but that took almost all the force of the impact. The lens and body are still in fine shape today without any repair work at all, other than buying a new lens hood.

[xdjoynerx]

uv filters prevent uv rays from entering the camera. you will get improved color, and improved contrast when using one, in addition to lens protection...

ever put on a pair on pair of sun glasses with uv protection? on bright days, glare is gone and there is clear contrast, allowing you to see better. the uv filter does the same thing, except its not tinted.

i dont know why you wouldnt use one in almost all day time shooting conditions.

[robertwgross]

uv filters prevent uv rays from entering the camera.

Keep in mind that the anti-aliasing filter also eliminates UV before it gets to the sensor, so trying to use a UV filter just for this purpose may be futile.

On the other hand, when I am in a hostile environment, like taking desert sand photos in Belmondo's back yard, I sure want every little bit of protection for the lens surface, so I would use some sort of filter there.

---Bob Gross---

[Webarcher]

Using a UV filter on a Digital Camera has NO effect on the picture. Digitale cameras don't care about UV. UV filter are used on analog Camera.
However, the reason people still use UV filters is only as a mean of protecting the valuable lens. But for that same reason you could consider using the hood all the time.