A reader asked me this in an email, the other day:
hello , i was wondering how can you know how to get the right filter for your camera ?!
So that is an interesting question.
First, it is for the lens, not the camera. Each lens takes different filters.
There are two types of filters:
- A UV filter is just for protection. I leave mine off, and only put them on when I am on the beach (as I hope to be as you read this), or when I am in a rainstorm, sandstorm or snowstorm. So I do have them, but do nto uyse much.
- A polarizer – as you saw yesterday – is for turning skies blue and eliminating reflections.
But if you do not know what filter you need.. perhaps you do not need one at all. I don’t usually use any filters except a protection filter when I am in bad weather, as said above. Or a polarizer when I am shooting at mid day and want the skies to turn blue, or when I want water reflections to minimise.
As for how expensive a filter should be: Between $50 and $150, generally. Thin filters, used for wide angle lenses, cost more.
Don’t forget graduated filters! Digital cameras struggle with dynamic range more than most film. I shoot with grads a lot to help bring the dynamic range into something the sensor can handle.
True! And ND as well!
Oops, and straight neutral density filters. Kind of a must have if you want the long exposure look.
Michael,
Can you expand a bit more on ND filters. I have never used any type of filter, and I know you are not a big advocate of them. But I have read so much mixed information on them, just wondering what your take is? Ever in Studio? I would think not but, I have heard some arguments for.
Laura