Choosing Lens Filters

[Karinu]

I finally purchased a D90 as kit and also bought the 70-300 mm lens. I know I need a basic UV filter--especially for the 70-300 mm when shooting on baseball field with all that dust.

Beyond that, does a beginner need any other filters?

Can you help me understand how to purchase a filter? How do you easily identify quality and how much is price related to what you get?

[Almond.Butterscotch]

Originally Posted by Karinu

I know I need a basic UV filter

You don't need one.

That said, when shopping for filters, know that thats gonna be yet another layer of glass in front of the sensor, and it's going to be the first layer that light comes through. It's an area that you should take your time in.

[dcclark]

Overall, I'd say you don't need any particular filters.

Personally, I like UV filters for protecting my lens. They don't matter for actually filtering UV light (your sensor already has a built-in filter for that). But, as Almond Butterscotch implied, a low-quality one can mess up your image quality.

Another popular type of filter is the polarizer -- specifically a Circular Polarizing Filter. It can increase saturation (especially in blue skies and foliage), and eliminate reflection from water and glass. But, if you don't immediately need it, save your money until you do feel the need. They can get expensive.

As far as quality, price and quality really do go hand in hand -- but you don't need the best filters ever to get decent results. Just beware of poorly made bargain-priced no-name filters. Good manufacturers of screw-in filters include Hoya, B&W, and Tiffen.

[Karinu]

What you both say matches what I've researched, however, in talking with the local camera shop I had gotten the impression that I'd be neglecting my lenses without one!

Thanks for helping me clarify necessity vs. good saleman!

I'll try without for now--seems silly to add another layer if not a must.

[dcclark]

Originally Posted by Karinu

What you both say matches what I've researched, however, in talking with the local camera shop I had gotten the impression that I'd be neglecting my lenses without one!

Heh, yep, it's important to understand your local shop's motivation. Not all shops try to sell you expensive new things just because -- but a lot do.

Originally Posted by Karinu

I'll try without for now--seems silly to add another layer if not a must.

As I mentioned, UV filters do have their use. If you expect to encounter a lot of water, sand, dust, etc., then a UV filter can be a lifesaver. Also, if you're like me and take your camera into woods, swamps, etc., then the filter is a great way to protect your front element.

However, if you're going to just be going around town, in your house, doing portraits, or other things like that -- don't bother!

[Almond.Butterscotch]

Also, if you happen to get the 60mm micro/macro or any macro lens that close-focuses really closely, then you might want to [seriously] consider a UV. Especially if you're getting close to sticky things (like fresh flowers)

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by Karinu

What you both say matches what I've researched, however, in talking with the local camera shop I had gotten the impression that I'd be neglecting my lenses without one!

Do your research first, then go shopping. Always. Ive had so many salesmen try to upsell me on things (new lenses?!) because mine "were terrible!".

For instance, I had one salesman try to get me to trade my Nikon 18-70 f/3.5-4.5 AF-S DX (a GREAT lens) for pennies to buy a Nikon 16-85 f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR (a great lens, but not as fast and not quite the same image quality)