B+W Filters...

Hi!

Recently picked up an expensive bundle, the 5D Mark III w/24-105mm L lens and the 85mm f/1.2 L II - the guy at the local store decided to show us his appreciation (damn right :P ) by including two B+W filters, one for each lens respectively. I took them as they were free, and originally $160 something each, but I've always been a little wary of filters since I've heard so many mixed reviews on them (and how they could change sharpness, colour, etc.) I'm wondering if anyone here has any experience with this specific filter? The full title is:

B+W Filter Digital MRC F-PRO "Professional" - Clear Transparent

The guy at the store is a wedding photographer and told me he uses the filter on his own 85mm, and swore it never changed the IQ - but Id like to hear other's thoughts At the end of the day they were free, but that doesnt mean I have to keep them on my lenses. I'd probably still use them as protection, but I just want to make sure that my image quality won't be sacrificed

** In addition, what is the point of a "clear transparent" filter.... lol ? I mean I'm glad its not tinted which even sometimes the UV filters can do, but I can't seem to find anything online about this particular version.

Really the only purpose UV filters serve is for "protection" and thats about it. Sure the high quality ones won't detract from IQ, people are split on their use and the debate can get heated here Most would suggest to use the filters in adverse situations to protect the front element from debris, but general stay off. Keep them since you didnt pay a dime for them, or sell them for profit.

One filter you should look at is a ND for the 85 1.2, if you want to shoot wide open during the day with bright sun. Got a 0.6 one for my 50 1.4 this past week when I went to Cuba and it worked amazingly well on the bright sunny beach, and also "protected" my front element from flying sand or ocean spray.

Hope this helps!

Tony_Stark wrote in post #14166628
Really the only purpose UV filters serve is for "protection" and thats about it. Sure the high quality ones won't detract from IQ, people are split on their use and the debate can get heated here Most would suggest to use the filters in adverse situations to protect the front element from debris, but general stay off. Keep them since you didnt pay a dime for them, or sell them for profit.

One filter you should look at is a ND for the 85 1.2, if you want to shoot wide open during the day with bright sun. Got a 0.6 one for my 50 1.4 this past week when I went to Cuba and it worked amazingly well on the bright sunny beach, and also "protected" my front element from flying sand or ocean spray.

Hope this helps!

Yes it did, thanks! I can see the filters coming in handy when I take the camera to shoot at barns or around horses. Dirt and dust gets kicked up a lot, and Id rather the filter feel the brunt of it first. Since I bought the 85 to use it wide open primarily, Ill look into the filter you mentioned Thanks again

B+W is one of if not the best filter brand. I have B+W filter's on all my lenses for protection.

Agreed, B+W makes very high quality stuff. I'm surprised he just gave them to you, you must be a good customer! I use B+W polarization filters, and they perform great. I use Canon protection filters on my glass, to make sure that salt spray, dust, sand etc. does not get to the front element. To be honest I think it's more a question of protecting resale value than protecting the lens. Some lenses require a filter for weather protection, not sure about yours though.

Anyway, you've got some very good filters, don't hesitate using them due to worries of impacted IQ - in normal situations you can't tell the difference.

_Ronni_ wrote in post #14167251
Anyway, you've got some very good filters, don't hesitate using them due to worries of impacted IQ

But in case you do hesitate, and they get in your way, PM me for my shipping address.

I use the B+W CPL, and am very happy.

I've taken the protection clear filters of all my lenses except at the beach or in the rain. There are enough problems with focus and sharp images that I don't want to even take a chance that the filter will add another problem.