need advice on UV filters !!

[homebrew]

I am just switching into digital photography with a new DSLR. I have had SLRs before and only bought "basic" filters. I don't know if this is relatively new or what --- but I did not realize there is such a wide range of UV filters available.

My lens is 77mm. I wish to get a UV filter first to protect the lens. Here are my questions:

1. Any advice on makers/brands? Tiffen? B+W? Hoya? Hassleblad?
2. What do I look for?
Multi-layer?
UV + IR?
3. Will the filter reduce the amount of light into the camera? Some expensive ones advertise that they do not -- but do the less expensive filters actually reduce f-stop?

Thanks to all!

 

[Big Mike]

A UV filter should not block a noticeable about of visible light. I'm not entirely sure but I think that the 'better' ones (more expensive) have more/better coatings to reduce flare. The downside of using a UV filters is that you are adding another piece of glass right in front of the lens, which does increase the chance of flare.

 

[Peniole]

Since we're talking filters here, what would you use UV or just clear protective? Currently I'm using a Hoya pro1 digital MC clear protective for one lens and a hoya pro1 digital cir-pol for the other.

 

[cumi]

You can not really do wrong if you choose from the brands you listed. And buy the most expensive filter from the brand. Example, in Hoya there are 3-4 different types. Buy the most expesive one (SHMC I think), what sill costs about 40€.

 

[Garbz]

Well the UV filter is just a filter. It block UV light. People rarely use it unless in snow or at the beach. The only reason eveyone has one is to protect the lens. I go for the cheapest. If I take a picture and notice flaring is an issue I remove the filter and re-shoot, problem solved.

 

[fmw]

Since we're talking filters here, what would you use UV or just clear protective?

Same thing. UV filters are clear optical glass. All glass filters a little UV. The filter filters very little of it compared to your lens. Calling it a UV filter is simply marketing.

 

[23pixels]

I'd get Hoya