UV and Polarization Filter Discussion
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I have read some debateconcerning the use of UV filters. Their main use in my view isone of protection. It your lens hits something your UV filterwill get scratched or possibly break and your lens will be fine. Just unscrew the UV filter and purchase a new one. I think thisis a big advantage when you are working with lenses that cost more than$1000. Others claim their is no point in purchasing an expensivelens made from the finest glass around, and then add another layer ofglass on top that is of lower quality. Why purchase such a finelens and decrease it's abilities by adding more glass, and probablylower grade glass. Personally, I disagree. I can't see anydifference in the quality of a photo with or without my UVfilter. The recommendation by those who are against the idea ofpurchasing UV filters for protection, is to always use your lenshood. The lens hood sticks out a considerable distance from thefront of the lens, is less expensive, will not add more glass over yourlens, and adds even more protection. I would have to agree to allof these points. The only probably for me is that lens hood makesthe lens look so much bigger and more conspicuous, that I don't feelcomfortable using it all the time. Also, it will not fit in mybag attached to the lens, since it adds so much size, and I worry thatI will not put it on every time. The UV filter is always on, so Inever have to worry. Well, you have to make your own decision onthis.
One thing I do agree on is that there is not point in purchasing aterrific lens with great glass and adding a low grade filter on top ofit. This is why I purchased a B+W brand filter. B+W isknown to sell the highest quality filters, but they do cost more. But again, why purchase a really expensive lens and cover it with acheap filter of bad quality. I also decided on the MRC version ofthe filter which is suppose to be more resistant to scratching. The filter is quit expensive so I figured I may as well spend a littleextra and try to ensure that I wont have to replace it veryoften, if ever.
On the other hand a polarization filter is a must. A polarizationfilter cuts haze, and adds contrast making many photos much morepleasing. Most of my landscape photos are taken with the additionof a polarization filter. Skies look bluer, clouds stand outmore, colors are more vivid, and there is less haze present. Apolarization filter is a must for any serious photographer. Again, I purchased a high quality filter to go with these high qualitylenses. There is no point in purchasing a great lens and coveringit with cheap glass. The Kaesemann polarizing filter is supposeto be the highest quality. It is now sold and owned by B+W. I also decided to get the MRC version to help resist scratches. For auto focus cameras you will need to purchase a circularpolarizer. Unfortunately, the standard polarization lens preventsthe auto focus technology from working. Circular polarizers donotwork as well, but if you don't mind manually focusing you can go withthe standard Linear Polarizers.
At this time I don't have a good example of a photo with and without apolarization filter, so I do not show any photos at the top. Assoon as I shoot an example I will include it for your review.
One thing I do agree on is that there is not point in purchasing aterrific lens with great glass and adding a low grade filter on top ofit. This is why I purchased a B+W brand filter. B+W isknown to sell the highest quality filters, but they do cost more. But again, why purchase a really expensive lens and cover it with acheap filter of bad quality. I also decided on the MRC version ofthe filter which is suppose to be more resistant to scratching. The filter is quit expensive so I figured I may as well spend a littleextra and try to ensure that I wont have to replace it veryoften, if ever.
On the other hand a polarization filter is a must. A polarizationfilter cuts haze, and adds contrast making many photos much morepleasing. Most of my landscape photos are taken with the additionof a polarization filter. Skies look bluer, clouds stand outmore, colors are more vivid, and there is less haze present. Apolarization filter is a must for any serious photographer. Again, I purchased a high quality filter to go with these high qualitylenses. There is no point in purchasing a great lens and coveringit with cheap glass. The Kaesemann polarizing filter is supposeto be the highest quality. It is now sold and owned by B+W. I also decided to get the MRC version to help resist scratches. For auto focus cameras you will need to purchase a circularpolarizer. Unfortunately, the standard polarization lens preventsthe auto focus technology from working. Circular polarizers donotwork as well, but if you don't mind manually focusing you can go withthe standard Linear Polarizers.
At this time I don't have a good example of a photo with and without apolarization filter, so I do not show any photos at the top. Assoon as I shoot an example I will include it for your review.
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Photos by Rob Bukar