Looking for a lens?

[S.Zimmerman]

Im want to get a UV filter and a polarizer lens.

I have a Nikon D3000 any suggestions?

And question about the filters.

For example I looked up one that was a 52 mm uv fiter. does that mean I can only use it with a focal point of 52mm?

[firebox40dash5]

52mm is the filter diameter. I'm guessing you have the 18-55mm lens, so 52mm would be the correct size for that. If you're going to leave a UV/protective filter on the lens all the time, go for the correct size.

For polarizers, neutral density filters, and others you want to be able to use on many lenses, almost everyone will recommend just buying them in 77mm, and buying adapter rings to fit your lenses. You can use a bigger filter without issue (other than it looks funny), but a smaller filter can/will cause problems.

I like Hoya HD filters, myself. They're horribly expensive at retail, but there are a few US ebay sellers (not the ones from HK) selling them at pretty good prices. The coating on them definitely resists smudges better than normal coatings, and the glass is supposedly harder too. I haven't had the urge to try to break a $50 filter yet, so I can't say for sure.

[dcclark]

Each lens you have should indicate the filter diameter on it. On most Nikons, it's at the base of the lens, with a "O" with a slash through it. For example: o72 means a 72mm filter size is required. This is unrelated to the focal length of the lens -- it's just a measure of how big the front of the lens is.

A good bet is to buy only one size of filter, preferably the biggest one you may need (77mm is very common). Then buy "step-up rings" which adapt your 52mm lens to the 77mm size (for example).

[S.Zimmerman]

Thanks! what would you suggest in brands of filters. Ideas on the nice cheaper ones and more expensive?

[natek313]

If you want a quality UV filter with a great price, look into Hoya Super HMC UV(0) filters. I use them on my lenses. If you have the budget, you can always look into B+W filters; they are more expensive.

[kirbinster]

UV filters are a waste of time and money. Just keep the hood on the lens and it will provide protection. Almost all lenses have uv coatings anyway. For a circular polirizer you want to make sure you get a coated one to avoid glare and other light problems.