Originally posted by reivax Does every filter degrade the IQ? I have a B&W Haze filter on my 50 1.4 (came with the lens and decided to leave it on). I also have a UV filter on my 55-300 (can't remember the brand right now). I've always wondered if I should leave them on, or take them off.
I know a lot of people are completely against using filters. I don't really use those filters for the effect, I leave them on to protect the lens. Is this really necessary?
It will degrade the IQ no matter how good the filter is, the question is if it's noticable and most often with a good filter there are little problems.
I'm not against using filters but i don't believe a filter will protect the lens if you bump into somthing or if a stone gets throw to it.
The filter is very thing glass so it will shatter and those sharp shatters will probably scratch the coating.
Modern lenses use protective coatings and the front elements are quite thick and often curved so they can take some force, at least a lot more than the filter.
Using filter to protect it from mud, salt and sandstorm would be a good idea but how often will you normaly shoot in such condition?
Also you pay a lot of money for a lens and what do you do... put extra glass infront of it, just doesn't make much sense to me.
This discusion is done to dead though... just search the forum if you want to read more.