Using Filters

[RonG]

Hi folks, can anyone recommend a good book to introduce me to using filters.

[OsmosisStudios]

Welcome to DPS: What can we help you with?

Seriously, we're gonna be better than a book for this kind of thing

What were you hoping to achieve?

[RonG]

Was looking for some general information.

Can you buy filters systems that fit on multiple lenses?
Is one mfg better than another?
Some theory explanations of why for example an orange filter makes blue skies darker (color theory I guess).

I have never used or researched this area so I thought some basic information in a book would be the best source. Appreciate any and all help!
Thanks!!

[OsmosisStudios]

Filters are essentially universal. Unless youre shooting with something weird like Leica, Contax, or others, most filters will fit most lenses. The trick is knowing the diameter of your lens (in mm) to buy the right size filter.
One technique that I recommend is to buy 77mm filters (the largest common size) and simply get what is called a "step-up ring". Its a metal ring that is 77mm on one side (mimicking the lens filter threads) and the diamter of your lens on the other (mimicking the filter itself). This way you get 1 set of filters for everything and can cover all your lenses.

Certain manufacturers are better than others. B+W, for instance, are one of the best. But you can also get varying degrees from the same manufacturer. HOYA for instance make their low-end Green line of filters but also make a great set of super-high end ones.

Orange filters (on film, at least) make the sky darker because they block out some of the blue light (thus the amount of light hitting the film). On digital, youd be better off with a circular polarizer instead, as the orange filter is just going to ruin your white balance.

One thing to consider is filter types. There are 2: threaded and slot-in. Threaded ones are circular and screw onto the filter threads. Slot=in ones need a holder that attached to the lens, then slide into the holder. These are often more expensive, more trouble, but are also of higher quality and more customizable.