Are coated filters worth the extra money?

I just ordered a Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM and the lens hood (I get hoods for every lens) and B&W UV filter. I found out later they make a higher-cost model coated to combat lens flare.

The 50mm f/1.4 isn't a cheap lens, and I'll gladly return my filter and upgrade if it makes any difference. If I use the hood, though I'm wondering if it really matters.

Thoughts, anyone?

John

If you use a filter, you should use a good multi-coated one. Never know when there'll be some stray light wanting to bounce around off uncoated glass.

Good multi-coated filters, such as B&W or Hoya, will help reduce CA, lens flare, and generally produce a better photo in the conditions which may cause CA, etc. A good many folks, myself included, don't use the UV/Skylight filters as the lens, especially with the proper hood, are normally themselves multi-coated to reduce these phenomena. Although circular polarizers/graduated ND and ND filters are widely used because there effects are difficult to impossible to reproduce in PS.

Yes

Multi Coated filters are highly recommended!

John,

Yes, the multi-coated filters make a difference. But if you were to purchase a single filter I would go for a polarizer IMHO. As Jeff says, it is difficult to reproduce certain effects on PS.

Cheers!

John

Yes.

B&W are good quality so I don't think you made a mistake. Take a shot with and without the filter when you get it. I'll bet you can't tell the difference.