Need a quick answer regarding filters

[Jon_Are]

I'm ordering a new lens real soon and it occurred to me that I probably need a filter or two to get started.

I did a search, but I am rushed and couldn't find an answer to my specific question. Because time is a factor, and I'm going to be incredibly busy between now and when I place the order (tomorrow morning), I figured I'll solicit some quick expert advice here.

So...

Which filters are considered no-brainers?

I'm thinking UV and polarizing, not so sure on a neutral density.

I'll be shooting a Nikon D80 with an 18-70 f 3.5-4.5, more landscapes/seascapes/buildings than people.

Thanks in advance,

Jon

 

[Jon_Are]

Hmmm....OK, I'll settle for a not-so-quick answer.

 

[christopher walrath]

Polarizer, ND ( graduated for landscapes, solid to lessen contrast), Light orange to help with portraiture and increase drama in skies and decrease atmospheric haze at midday with B&W, light blue to reduce haze around golden hour with B&W.

 

[RyanLilly]

A UV is good to leave on all the time for protection, Hoya Super multi coated seem to be the best balance of quality and price. A circular polarizing filter can come in handy quite often, but the good ones do cost. As far as colored filters go, hold off on those till you get going with your new gear, plus you can pretty much recreate their effects in post.

 

[reg]

Hmmm....OK, I'll settle for a not-so-quick answer.

I love people like this.

:roll:

 

[gargoyle1]

So I have a question on top of this... I've been shooting for over a year, but feel like i'm still a COMPLETE newbie.

I just got a circular polarizer with the new lens I got. Is there ever a not-so-ideal situation to have the polarizer on? Or would it be okay to keep it on at all times?

 

[Overkill-F1]

A polarizer does decrease the light entering the camera. It will require a longer exposure and/or a larger aperature. I don't put a polarizer on unless I want to reduce reflections or darken the sky. I do have a UV filter on most of the time to protect the lens and will remove it if facing difficult lighting (contrasty, light entering the lens, etc).
...Terry

 

[Jon_Are]

So is this a good rule of thumb: use the polarizer whenever there's a good bit of sky in the photo?

I appreciate all the responses.

Jon

 

[Mav]

I use a UV filter for general protection, a circular polarizer for general landscape stuff, and a grad ND filter for sunrise and sunset type photos. I stick with name brand stuff like Hoya or Tiffen or the re-branded stuff like Quantaray or Promaster at reputable retail establishments and avoid eBay junk. Get multi-coated if you can afford it, but don't feel obliged. I have some cheaper uncoated filters and they still work great.