what types of Filters do you have / recomend ?

I have a clear filter on each lense i have to protect my lenses but its time to start using a couple more and i would like to know which other types of filters people use the most, ie graduated, UV, BW etc etc and why and if poss with a pic of the result. also which make you would recomend.

Thanks
Andy

I generally have a UV filter (Hoya or B+W) on my lenses if I am outdoors. Since most of my lenses are 77mm, I don't need more than 1 at a time, but I have a selection. I do have a ND and polarized filter for very bright landscapes. I never use them for portraits, though. And sometimes, I don't use a filter if I know I will be carrying the camera around my neck and indoors.

I use B+W MRC UV filters on any of my lenses that will accept filters. I also use B+W MRC circular polarizers and Singh Ray graduated ND filters (grads). Most of my lenses are also 77 mm but I actually have multiple CPs for them as I don't want to have to change filters when changing lenses, and I may have more than one camera in use anyhow. Other reputable screw-in filter lines are Hoya's S-HMC and DMC multi-coated and Heliopan's SH-PMC multicoated. Lee and HiTech also make good rectangular grads. My grads are 84 mm, so I use the Cokin P holder; if you use them on an ultrawide lens, you may need the 100 mm, which fits a Cokin Z or Lee holder. Cokin's grads have a reputation for having color casts; I'd avoid them.

There is a reason why filters come in all sizes and prices. You get what you pay for.

Thanks for the advice, it is much appreciated.
Jon - sorry to show my ignorance, but what does MRC stand for ?

Thanks

Andy

That's B+W's name for their multicoating. Hoya uses S-HMC and DMC for theirs; Heliopan uses SH-PMC for theirs.

I use Hoya muli-coated circular polarizers on-lens, and Hitech P series filters for neutral and graduated neutral density filters. The type of filter you, I, or anyone uses will depend entirely on what is being shot. In general though, I suggest putting the UV filters in the closet and buying a high quality, multi-coated, circular polarizer. They are useful for anything from portraits to landscapes.

I can only recommend Heliopan or B+W filters. They use brass rings which are stronger than the aluminum rings other brands use. Also, brass does not seize when putting the filter on or taking it off the way aluminum does. Both of these brands use Schott (Zeiss) glass which many think is the finest optic glass in the world. One thing to watch for, I understand B+W are using some aluminum rings. Maybe it's best to stick with Heliopan who uses only brass.

All my filters are made by Hoya, I have multiple UV's and 2 CPL's.