at the beach?

[princessmommy]

I just recently got my Rebel Xsi so I'm still learning and figuring it out. I'm going on vacation - to the beach - and I would like to get some decent pictures. I've been reading some things about beach photography, and I was wondering: do I need to get any filters? One article suggested a UV filter, and another suggested a polarizing filter. I want to have what I need, but don't want to get anything unnecessary. Any tips or advice about beach photography would be really helpful. Thanks!

-Melissa

[OeterB]

Well, there'll be more qualified and knowledgeable voices here on this than me. But my understanding is UV filter is great for cutting down haze (and protecting your lens without altering the image too much); polarizing will really bring out the blue of the sky and the like. But, again, could be wrong, I believe using polarizing filters requires a certain technique to get the most out of it.

[OsmosisStudios]

A circular polarizer will help you with skies and water reflections, so that's a must.
The only reason to use a UV filter would be to protect the front element from getting sandblasted and sprayed. Though you may not be able to see or feel it, sand and spray DO get on everything.