Do I need a protective filter?

[JewelsOK]

I am brand new to dslr (really photography in general) and just bought a Nikon D3000. I am all about protecting my gadgets - I've already put a screen protector on the LCD screen. What about the lens? Would it be wise to put a filter of some type over the lens?

If so, can you all recommend one (size, maker, etc.)? A link to purchase one would be great. My picture taking will be general - my kids, horses, indoor, outdoor (when it warms up). Is there a general purpose filter that would work in these type of situation?

Thanks!

Julie

[Jamie Hickey]

A UV filter is good for everyday shooting. Neutral density for shooting in bright outdoor cases. Depending on the lens you have it should be a 52mm filter for you camera.

[JewelsOK]

Thanks. My lens my camera came with is the AF-S DX Zoom-NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II lens.

Specific recommendations would be great. What should I expect to spend for a decent one? I live in a small town - is it something I could find at Wal-Mart (where I bought my camera), Radio Shack or Staples?

Thanks again,

Julie

[JewelsOK]

I just realized that my old Nikon 35mm camera has a "Tiffen 52mm Sky 1-A" filter on it - Would it be what I need?

Thanks again!

[sk66]

yes, that's a UV and should fit your 18-55.
But that lens on your old nikon 35mm might be useful too.

FWIW, I've quit using a filter to protect my lenses....That is unless I'm doing something like pics in blowing sand. Sometimes they can detract from getting the best possible image. But the biggest issue for me was that dust always finds a way behind the filter. Then I have to clean both sides of the filter and the lens just to remove the dust....

[JewelsOK]

The Nikon's we have are both EM. The lenses are

1. Nikon Lens Series E 50mm 1:18
2. Nikon Lens Series E 35mm 1:2.5
3. Reflex-NIKKOR-C 1:8 f=500mm 579723
4. Vivitar 80-200mm 1:45 Auto Zoom No 22903274 055mm

Do those sound compatible with my D3000? I'm a ways off from knowing what I need lens wise. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by it all.

I do think a filter would be wise as I'd like to snap pictures of my daughter riding her horse here in very windy (often dusty) Oklahoma.

Thanks

Julie

[sk66]

Originally Posted by JewelsOK

The Nikon's we have are both EM. The lenses are

1. Nikon Lens Series E 50mm 1:18
2. Nikon Lens Series E 35mm 1:2.5
3. Reflex-NIKKOR-C 1:8 f=500mm 579723
4. Vivitar 80-200mm 1:45 Auto Zoom No 22903274 055mm

Do those sound compatible with my D3000? I'm a ways off from knowing what I need lens wise. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by it all.

I do think a filter would be wise as I'd like to snap pictures of my daughter riding her horse here in very windy (often dusty) Oklahoma.

Thanks

Julie

They will all mount, but they will be manual focus and will not meter...Probably not much use to you.

If mounted on a D200 or higher model they would meter but still be manual focus only.

For specific compatibility for the D3000, see here

[OsmosisStudios]

Still a nice collection. The Nikkor-C reflex in particular is Nikon's best foray into reflex lenses. The 50mm series E is also quite nice.