Does a UV filter really make that big of a difference?

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Question from Denise: “I bought a UV filter for my lens, does it really make that big a difference? I want a polarizing filter, but am not investing 120.00 until I am sure that I NEED it”

Reva: Uv = protection.

Mark: Read up on UV filters here, hope this helps.

David: I paid a lot less that £120 for my polarizing filter but that was some years ago!

Becca: The main reason to use a polarizing filter is to protect your lens. My brother dropped his camera once and his filter shattered but his lens was fine. If he didn’t have a filter, the front glass on his lens would have likely shattered.

Christina: Yes you need a uv filter for your lens. It also protects your lens from scratches as well as uv lighting. I would much rather purchase a new filter than an expensive lens. Good luck on your decision.

Sondra: Yes to the UV. Like most mention if something happens, it happens to the filter not the lens. As far as polarizing filter I went used on most of my filters, UV filters I buy new cause they are my primarily used filter (I have one for every lens I own) and they are cheap. The other effects filters I purchased from a camera shop that also deals in gently used equipment. I like the colors and contrast the polarizing filter gives but was not impressed by the clarity resulting from going through 2 piece filter and then the glass of lens, I lost some of my details, so as with most special effects filters and lenses there are pros and cons, you gain here, lose a little there. But always yes to the UV.

Mollie: UV is to cut haze in mountains and from planes. BUT it is fantastic to keep your lens safe!

Chris:  Yes they are a great guard to protect your lenses.

Chris:  Uv does not really do anything with digital , it’s mainly a protective covering these days . A polarizing filter is vasty different , with that you can shoot through windows and water without worrying about that reflection on the water or windows .

Stacy:  Honestly, what’s the point in buying a 1000$ lens and then putting a 20$ cover over it? Doesn’t make a lic of sense!

Chris:  My filter is 100 bucks , the better the quality , the better the protection . And clarity .

Heather: The UV is your choice, doesn’t do much except protect the lens, so that’s a choice, I don’t use them, I’m on the beach and in marsh, I’m in rain, never had a problem. A polarizer is very different, it knocks down glare, makes skies pop, allows you to use a slower shutter speed if you choose. If you do landscape this should be in your bag.
Do not buy cheap, you invest in glass, then invest in filters, otherwise your money is wasted. I paid about $150 for my 77 mm polarizer.

Tony:  If its just to protect your lens then don’t bother with a UV filter, just always use your lens hood. Even a good filter will sometimes cause more reflections/sun flair etc. As for a poleriser I want one of those too

Cortney:  I LOVE my polarizing lens… It makes skies look extra blue and helps when there is harsh lighting or glares. I would keep a uv lens on all other lenses to protect them though… Just like everyone else has said.

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