UV filters

#1 TL6MT

I drive an Acura TL SH-AWD 6MT

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Posted 08 October 2011 - 09:54 PM

As some of you may know I have a Canon 5D2 with Canon 24mm-105mm f/4L lens (Diameter = 77mm). I noticed a lot of you guys have UV filters. Does it really make a difference in image quality outside? I am hearing mixed reviews, like those images on B&H showing massive differences, while some say you should not add an extra layer between your glass and the subject... after all I got L lens. Any recommendations?

#2 chconline

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Posted 08 October 2011 - 10:02 PM

For digital cameras, don't expect it to make ANY improvement in image quality. Your sensor doesn't even pick up the light at UV level wavelengths anyway, and anything you see is just marketing BS

The only reason why I use a UV filter is for lens protection, so it can take all the scratches during everyday use (In addition to my lens hood). I know many photographers who do that -- for lens protection. After all, you don't want any damage to your L series lens

On the other hand, any claim of decreases of image quality is probably true, since you are adding a layer between the subject and your lens as you have mentioned. However, people have done tests with decent filters that it makes absolutely negligible differences; we're talking about extremely high levels of detail here. At the end of the day, just buy some decent UV filters and leave it on your lens for protection. When it's scratched, just get some new ones.

I have some Rodenstock E 77 UV/1x on my Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L. Nothing on my regular glass, but I don't really care about those.