Filters

[Rafal]

Hi Everyone,
I just purchased the Canon 50mm 1.4(58 thread) and Tokina 11-16 2.8(77 thread) lenses for a Canon XSI body. I'd like to get some filters to protect these lenses. Previously I bought some cheap ones from Target They were multi coated but I found out very quickly after light use that scratches appeared on them.
I'd like to get a mid grade filters that would last longer, don't take away too much from picture quality and don't cost over 100$ each. Any suggestions on brands that I should be looking at??

Also, in regards to the Tokina lens. Since this is a SWA lens will I need a slim filter for that or regular will work just fine??

ok, one more and I'm done. I also would like to get the Graduated ND filter. Is getting the circular one practical?? or is it better to get the Cokin lens kit with the rectangular filters which can be adjusted?

 

[480sparky68 67]

Don't be afraid to spend money on a filter to protect your lens. If you're putting it on a SWA, you'll most likely need a thin filter or else you'll get vignetting at the low end.

Never heard of a circular GND filter.

 

[tirediron]

This is a Ford/Chevy topic that has been debated here many times. My opinion is that "protection" filters are pointless. Chances are, if your lens has been impacted hard enough to damage a filter, it will damage the lens too. I've had lens hoods save me from damage more than once, but never a filter.

That said, IF you are going to get a "protection" filters, then don't simply go out and get UV filters, rather, get optically clear elements. They're no cheaper than any other filter, but they will have less effect on your image. I would expect to pay around $125-150 for a B+W clear element in 77mm slim; I'm not actually sure if Hoya or Tiffen even make them.

If you're going to go with graduated ND filters than avoid the round ones. These limit you to have the graduation in the centre of the image which is not always desirable. Rather go for the square/rectangular gel filters such as Cokin (You'll want the 'P' size for your ll-16)

 

[Rafal]

This is a Ford/Chevy topic that has been debated here many times. My opinion is that "protection" filters are pointless. Chances are, if your lens has been impacted hard enough to damage a filter, it will damage the lens too. I've had lens hoods save me from damage more than once, but never a filter.

That said, IF you are going to get a "protection" filters, then don't simply go out and get UV filters, rather, get optically clear elements. They're no cheaper than any other filter, but they will have less effect on your image. I would expect to pay around $125-150 for a B+W clear element in 77mm slim; I'm not actually sure if Hoya or Tiffen even make them.

If you're going to go with graduated ND filters than avoid the round ones. These limit you to have the graduation in the centre of the image which is not always desirable. Rather go for the square/rectangular gel filters such as Cokin (You'll want the 'P' size for your ll-16)

I get what you're saying about the filter. A good hit could damage both. However if you get some sand or harsh dust of some sort on your lens won't it make scratches?

As far as the GND filters goes I don't understand why they even make those for the reason you mentioned.

Thanks for the reply!

 

[tirediron]

However if you get some sand or harsh dust of some sort on your lens won't it make scratches?

Only if you rub the heck out of the glass (and even if you do scratch the front element, it's not likely to hurt the image; you'd be amazed at how messed up a front lens element can be and still capture a good image). I've photographed all over the Middle East (Think: Hot, windy and LOTS of sand) without any problems. I kept my Giottos Rocket handy and gave everything a blow-off but that was about it. Camera gear, even consumer gear, is often a lot tougher than people think.

 

[mjhoward]

However if you get some sand or harsh dust of some sort on your lens won't it make scratches?

Only if you rub the heck out of the glass (and even if you do scratch the front element, it's not likely to hurt the image; you'd be amazed at how messed up a front lens element can be and still capture a good image). I've photographed all over the Middle East (Think: Hot, windy and LOTS of sand) without any problems. I kept my Giottos Rocket handy and gave everything a blow-off but that was about it. Camera gear, even consumer gear, is often a lot tougher than people think.

Good example:
Dirty lens article

 

[Rafal]

However if you get some sand or harsh dust of some sort on your lens won't it make scratches?

Only if you rub the heck out of the glass (and even if you do scratch the front element, it's not likely to hurt the image; you'd be amazed at how messed up a front lens element can be and still capture a good image). I've photographed all over the Middle East (Think: Hot, windy and LOTS of sand) without any problems. I kept my Giottos Rocket handy and gave everything a blow-off but that was about it. Camera gear, even consumer gear, is often a lot tougher than people think.

I assume that L series lenses are tough, not too sure about my lens quality I guess I'll pick my battles and try to avoid putting the filter on.

As far as cleaning the lens, do you use micro fiber cloth or disposable papers? I just ordered the papers because in my mind once you get your cloth oily even from fingers it's pointless to use it again

 

[KmH]

Here are some more links to help you decide if your lenses need 'protection':

LensRentals.com - Front Element Scratches

‪Canon Glass‬‏ - YouTube

I advocate using quality disposable lens tissue. From repeated use, microfibre cloth can hold dirt particles that are capable of scratching a lens.

Tiffen Lens Cleaning Tissue - Pack of 50 Sheets

 

[Rafal]

it's settled. Unless I plan to smash it with a hammer I shouldn't worry about it too much.
Thanks guys! I appreciate the help.

 

[ann]

Singh ray makes a variable contrast ND filter. Runs over $300 but can be rotated to change the density

 

[Rafal]

Singh ray makes a variable contrast ND filter. Runs over $300 but can be rotated to change the density

Thank you for the tip Ann, but I'm looking for the graduated ND filter

 

[KmH]

Then another tip. Get the rectangular type of GND filter, so you can hand hold it in front of the lens and easily move the graduation up/down or tiit it.

The screw on kind don't give you those kinds of options. Check out Lee filters: Lee "The Landscape Photographers' Guide to Using Filters"

 

[dakkon76]

I was on the fence about spending $100 on a filter for the new Sigma 50mm F1.4 that I just ordered, since I'm already spending $100 more than I thought because I chose this over the Canon. Glad I read those links and watched the videos... I've always been worried about a tiny little speck on my front element. I guess I don't need to keep it that spotless. Thanks guys... so long as I'll be thanking you later when I'm happy with the way the front element holds up

 

[GooniesNeverSayDie11]

This has been debated to death and there is no right or wrong answer. My opinion is that protective filters are useless and only open up a possibility to degrade image quality. The only reason I would use them is in a situation that had a very high chance of debris hitting my lens ( like mud or salt water spray ) The only filters I own are Circular Polarizers, ND filters, and Graduated ND filters. A hood will provide plenty of protection from dings.