What do professional photographers often say NO to? The very things amateurs say “Must Do” to. Like these:
- Camera bags. You do not need your camera in a bag. When it is in a bag, you cannot use it. Your camera is for picture taking, not for storing. I carry a camera on one shoulder, and a bag with lenses, flashes, filters, and so on on the other shoulder.
- Filters. A filter will sometimes do more harm than good. In particular, it can increase lens flare. What happens when you are shooting in the direction of a strong light source. So a filter can decrease your quality, while it can never increase it. But does it not protect? Yes – so when I am shooting in snow, rain or a sandstorm I may put on a filter. Otherwise, no. (But note, I always, always use lens hoods. They reduce flare and prevent damage).
- Lens caps. A lens cap is a great picture preventer. Need I say more?
Sometimes, less really is more.
I am not saying you cannot use bags, lens caps and filters. What I am saying is that if like me you choose not to, you should not feel guilty. You may find the experience lliberating.
You may be one of the few who understand my reaons for no filter/no cap. I use the lens hood to protect the camera, but I’m a newspaper guy – I need the camera to be useful NOW.