UV Filters/filters

[auntyjud]

I was at an awesome workshop last night and the presenter said not to use UV filters/filters on your lenses because they make the pictures soft. Of course, I'm gonna experiment and see what happens, but what does everyone else think? What has your experience been? I kind of like to have the filter on the lens for no other reason than protection. Would be interested in hearing from others.

[inkista]

I use UVs on all my lenses. Never had a problem with softness (but then, I always get midgrade multicoated UVs). Have had problems with flare, but then I just take the filter off. I'm paranoid. I like having the filters on. I also shoot in dusty back canyons and at the beach. This is a personal preference thing. For someone who shoots mostly in studio settings, going without UV filters is probably decent practice. Anybody who takes a hard line about the use of UVs for physical protection makes the mistake of assuming how they shoot and takes care of their gear is how everyone else shoots and takes care of their gear .

Yes, it may cost you less to replace a front element than what you're ultimately going to spend on UV filters. But then, you have to be without your lens while the front element's being replaced.... with UVs, you just buy a new one, replace the old one and you're done.

[Raoul Isidro]

There is this new "trend" where there are advocates who diligently cling on to and with feverish passion, compel others to do what their same mindset are, and NOT use UV filters at all. I don't know where this theory or urban myth came from, but there seems to be some pockets of strong following to this thing of using NO filters at all.
I say, let them be and do their thing, but DO NOT force their twisted unproven theory on others who are happy with using a filter for their happiness, peace of mind, security, enjoyment and equipment protection.
There is nothing wrong with using or not using a UV filter in front of a lens. People who argue about this practice / malpractice should well be avoided. That teacher lecturer may be irresponsible as he is forcing a practice upon his students. The right way is to give the user a choice.

[jamesev]

I used to use UV filters as lens protectors but now use Skylight filters instead

[RecurrentNerve]

If you're worried about softness and just want protection, just use a clear filter instead.

[inkista]

Originally Posted by jamesev

I used to use UV filters as lens protectors but now use Skylight filters instead

Funny, I've done the opposite. With digital, white balance correcting via filters isn't really needed any more. Skylights give a color cast.

Originally Posted by RecurrentNerve

If you're worried about softness and just want protection, just use a clear filter instead.

UV filters are clear filters, and usually of higher quality than simple clear filters. That's why so many people use them, even though there's already an IR/UV blocking filter on the sensor.