What filters?

cjmchch

I have just purchased new a Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L USM lens and have yet to purchase a UV, ND and CPL filter. While I had the kit lenses I purchased el-cheapo's for them both but not for the L glass. I have read numerous articles on all sorts ranging from the Hoya pro to the B&W to not using one at all. and where has that got me....:dunno.

I'd be interested in what other users have attached to their L series glass.

Any help would be appreciated

Chris

Tommyboy

At the advice of a pro friend (works for a corporate client) I bought two B+Ws (UV and cir PL) for my L purchase. Haven't received or tried them yet, but he swore to me that it makes a difference.

You'll get a lot of different opinions, I suspect. I've been shooting for nearly 30 years and can't remember having suffered from a "bad" filter.

pathfinder

I tend to choose B&W - I think their threads are brass and as a result less likely to bind than aluminum threads. B&W glass is first rate also of course.

I own one UV filter from years ago shooting film, and have never really used it. The only filters I use today are circular polarizers that screw in, and a couple of neutral density filters for shooting water falls.

cjmchch

pathfinder wrote:

I tend to choose B&W - I think their threads are brass and as a result less likely to bind than aluminum threads. B&W glass is first rate also of course.

I own one UV filter from years ago shooting film, and have never really used it. The only filters I use today are circular polarizers that screw in, and a couple of neutral density filters for shooting water falls.

So do you rely upon your lens hood providing your necessary filtration and lens protection?

pathfinder

Yes, I do use a hard plastic or metal lens hood for protection. I know of a 16-35 f2.8 L that got a scratched front element on a walk through Antelope Canyon because they removed their lens hood. ( Fortunately, I was not the unhappy photog that day)

If I am to be shooting in salt water spray, or blowing sand, I would definitely use a UV filter.

I am not as fastidious as some, but I do believe in protection for my camera and lenses in dangerous environments. But generally, walking around out of doors, or indoors, I do not usually wear a filter.

claudermilk

I have B+W UV and CPL filters, used when necessary. In most situations, I have no filter. The hood is always on, and is particularly effective with the 24-70 design--note the lens extends as you zoom back to 24mm; this makes the hood the correct length for the focal length (shortest at 24mm, longest at 70mm).

Joves

I use Hoyas myself, mostly the UV for glass protection. It keeps the dust off and, I have scratched the filter, wich would have been the glass had it not been on. I also have a CP, Blue Polarizer and, an 8.0 ND. I like to check the UV filters for coloration before I buy them, sometimes they can vary greatly.