70-200 f/2.8L IS, best filter for outdoor sports?

Just got the 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS lens, and I will be using it for shooting running races. I am still pretty new to filters and such, so I was wondering what the best type would be for this kind of photography. Definitely daytime photography, and HOPEFULLY sunny... Lol..

I know some of you don't like filters, but I kinda like something protecting the glass since this lens is so expensive.

Any advice would be appreciated.


Ken

Lens hood.

Staszek wrote in post #12459931
Lens hood.

Lol... Figured I get that answer. I just get VERY scared of scratches and such. But the hood is pretty deep. Not sure what to do...

Thanks for the reply...

Don't use a filter. Filters, especially cheapies can degrade your image quality.

yogestee wrote in post #12459989
Don't use a filter. Filters, especially cheapies can degrade your image quality.

Amen to that. Spend $2500 on a lens and put a $30 filter in front of it. Doesn't make much sense to me. I used to have a UV in front of mine till I did some comparison shots, I noticed a difference. That was all I needed to see before I yanked it off for good. I now just use filters for desired effects, not protection. I just made sure my insurance covered any damage and try to use the lens hood whenever possible. However, I would recomend the B&W UV over others I have used.

Pingman wrote in post #12460016
I just made sure my insurance covered any damage and try to use the lens hood whenever possible.

Can I ask what kind of insurance you have? I should be thinking about that since I am slowly moving to more expensive lenses. And I will just try the hood, and be VERY careful!!

Thanks again everyone!!!!


Ken

Ken,, camera gear is tougher than most people think. Don't be a big girl's blouse when it comes to camera gear,, just use it.

And you have a $30 lens...

kenjancef wrote in post #12460071
Can I ask what kind of insurance you have? I should be thinking about that since I am slowly moving to more expensive lenses. And I will just try the hood, and be VERY careful!!

Thanks again everyone!!!!


Ken

It is nothing special, just a rider on my home owners policy. Did the same thing with my wifes wedding rings and other items. Don't count on your standard policy to cover very much in the event of loss or theft.

Pingman wrote in post #12460156
It is nothing special, just a rider on my home owners policy. Did the same thing with my wifes wedding rings and other items. Don't count on your standard policy to cover very much in the event of loss or theft.

Ok, I thought it might be special insurance. I'm still pretty new at this, well, with better equipment than I used to have. I rent, but have a rider on my insurance for my computer equipment (I am an IT guy with a lab in my basement). I will just call them to add the camera gear on it.

Thanks for the info!!!

A small scratch on the front element won't show in pics anyways... And the hood will protect against most minor bumps... Go filterless.

kenjancef wrote in post #12459922
Just got the 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS lens, and I will be using it for shooting running races. I am still pretty new to filters and such, so I was wondering what the best type would be for this kind of photography. Definitely daytime photography, and HOPEFULLY sunny... Lol..

I know some of you don't like filters, but I kinda like something protecting the glass since this lens is so expensive.

Any advice would be appreciated.


Ken

Here's a great filter kit for all your needs the Hoya Filters[/URL]. As an avid photographer I always desire the best optics, but I always can't afford the best available lenses, flash, cases, and other accessories. However, when it comes to filters, I always look for the Hoya brand first. The best filters on the market? -- look for Hoya's own Pro1 Digital Filter Series. They will cost more and they're worth every penny. But the three filters in this kit are an excellent beginner's choice. As a nationally certified optician (ABOC) who is skilled at making optical lenses for patients, I also turn to the Hoya brand for prefabricated spectacle lenses and I also prefer working with the Hoya Optical Labs throughout the country. After you conduct a lot of research and really decide you want the best for your money, you'll come to the same decision many professionals do: go with Hoya. The multi-layer manufacturing process and their quality control methods are second to none. Optically they are near to perfect -- using my own optical lab equipment, I have scrutinized the filters for any aberrations, waves, and any imperfections -- they tested perfectly. The fit and finish of the products are superb! As far as the actual lens filter mounting is concerned, you'll appreciate the exact threading -- they screw on perfectly. Also, the included nylon pouch you receive with this 3-lens kit allows you expand your filter collection -- for the fun of it, go ahead and order one of Hoya's star filters too. You'll love them for all your holiday pictures!

Okay, enough praise of the manufacturing -- how do the filters perform and how will they enhance your pictures? All I can say, I've been taking pictures now for over 50 years and the results are outstanding. My favorite is the Hoya C-Polarized Filter. If you have never used this baby for dramatically improving the sky and clouds, you're in for a treat. Go ahead and have fun! By the way, look at Hoya's own official web site for more education on how they make their lenses and how they differ from other manufactures ([...]). You'll be impressed.

I had a camera in my hands every day for 28 years of my working life. Hardly ever used filters, except for effects etc. I have never scratched the front element of a lens,, ever..

Most UV filters are made of very weak glass. Only UV filter that I know of that is made of tough laminated glass that can withstand something hitting it hard is the Hoya HD class of filters.
May want to look into those.