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Keep that filter on your lens!

Filters and hoods. These are two essential items often overlooked or taken for granted by the novice and even by some more advanced photo enthusiasts. And yes, I’ve seen even professional photographers going about their business without these two important items.
Let’s talk about filters first.  What are filters ? Filters are those circular clear glass photographers put on their new lenses.  During the time of film, filters are a must on every lens for these reasons:
  • To prevent haze – These filters, known as UV filters or Skylight, prevents outdoor images from becoming hazy and indistinct because of invisible ultra violet rays coming from the sun. . Especially used when shooting with Black and White film.
  • For photographic effects – Various photographic effects filters are available such as polarizers, which are optional accessories .
  • Lens protection  – UV /Skylight filters, can be safely left on the lens which acts as a barrier and protection for your precious lens  from accidental bumps and dents.
Some argue that   today”s advanced technology allows the lens to be used without the filters.  That adding a second layer of glass over your expensive lens just degrades the image. Might be true. They have a point there. But can one really tell the difference between a photo shot with a filter on and one that did not have the filter on? I doubt it.
However, should you insist on not having a filter on your lens for whatever reason, then at least, put a lenshood on! They also add some sort of protection from bumps and scratches . most hoods are also made of metal, so your glass would be adequately protected.  With the hood on, you prevent sun flares from appearing in your photographs.
So keep that filter or hood on your lens all the time. Better still, keep the two. Well, I do.
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Comments

  1. Chris Del RosarioNovember 13, 2010 at 1:36 AM

    Hi! Where can I buy filters??? The malls photo shops don't have them. I live in Quezon City. Just a newbie by the way.

    ReplyDelete
  2. NoelNovember 25, 2010 at 12:33 AM

    Sorry for the delayed response re: your query, Chris. Anyways, you can find different filters for your lens at Hidalgo, Quiapo. You will find rows of photo shops there. It is located at the back of the SM Sta. Cruz branch near Quiapo church.

    ReplyDelete

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