Do filters work

So my question is whether or not lens filters are really worth it. I used to use a red filter to give deep contrast to black and whites with film. Yet, now with PS, as soon as you change to monochrome, does it take away the filter effect?

If you're asking about using colored filters for black & white digital imaging, I think the majority will recommend NOT using the filters.

Conversion from a color image to monochrome via software provides the photographer with a tremendous amount of flexibility in contrast control that having only a one-shot chance (the same as with film) to get it right in-camera (by using a colored filter) makes no sense.

Lens filters are extremely worth it.

Go over to the nature and landscape forum and check out the graduated neutral density filter - thats the effects of only a couple of types of filters. When used properly, and in select situations, filters can do worlds of difference that photoshop or other methods can't.

As for colored filters and BW filters...i dont know

Also, the most-useful filter I can think of is a good "circular" polarizing filter. A polarizing filter can, for example, eliminate reflections on non-metallic surfaces (such as glass, water, paint, etc.) and also can darken blue skies to increase contrast with clouds. The polarizing filter's characteristics, particularly as related to reflections, are impossible to duplicate in software.

Polarizing filters in the olden days were "linear", but today's autofocus and autoexposure systems often require the extra design feature in the circular polarizers.

Thanks for the input. I was debating on using the filters I already have. I guess I will give them a try.

I was taking pictures of people whitewater rafting today. It was right after noon, the sun was high in the sky and I had forgotten to bring my circular polarizing filter. I have a feeling a filter would have helped me out with my sky color and water shots...

The only filter i bother with are c-polariing filters. Eventually I'd like to get graduated/ neutral density filters but I don't shoot alot of scenic/landscape shots so it's not on the top of my list. Everything else can be done in photoshop..

The Canon 250D close-up filter is a must-have IMO.

HTTP response: NOT FOUND | MIME changed to 'image/png' | Redirected to error image by ZENFOLIO PROTECTED

reignmkr wrote in post #8220555
The Canon 250D close-up filter is a must-have IMO.

Closeup filters are cool, but I don't consider them a "traditional" filter. They are more a substitute for a macro lens, or to be used on an "advanced" P&S for macro work (same goes for the "teleconverter" and "wide angle" filters). They are fine for kit lenses or other lenses with 58mm (or similar size) filter thread, but good luck finding one for a 77mm filter threaded lens.

edit: Randy what lens did you use for that shot? It's nice!

I think they can be used in conjunction with macro lenses, can't they? I"ll have to try that theory out with my 100 macro

Karl Johnston wrote in post #8221125
I think they can be used in conjunction with macro lenses, can't they? I"ll have to try that theory out with my 100 macro

I don't see why not.

They effectively bring the subject "closer to you" rather then you "closer to the subject" (if that makes any sense).

When I had my Sony H5 superzoom P&S i had one and i should have kept it. Would have worked good on my kit lens I think (58mm filter).

I hear you a 77mm 250D would be hard to find and I don't think with such a large front element would benefit with a close-up filter. A dedicated macro lens would be a better option.

BTW, I used a Voigtlander 58mm f/1.4 lens.

DStanic wrote in post #8220877
Closeup filters are cool, but I don't consider them a "traditional" filter. They are more a substitute for a macro lens, or to be used on an "advanced" P&S for macro work (same goes for the "teleconverter" and "wide angle" filters). They are fine for kit lenses or other lenses with 58mm (or similar size) filter thread, but good luck finding one for a 77mm filter threaded lens.

edit: Randy what lens did you use for that shot? It's nice!

I had one of those close ups in my hand when the Ritz by my old house was going out of business. I should have gotten it just for kicks.

Certainly grad ND and polarising filters have their place, as do the macro add ons. Coloured filters are pointless though, unless you want to specifically restrict yourself for 'artistic' reasons. PS will let you mimic the effect of any colour filter on a final B&W image, and mix all possible colours, to your heart's content, all without damaging your original full-colour image.