[Will]

Originally Posted by Bob

I rarely use protection filters. Keep your gear clean, use hard lens hoods instead of those crappy rubber collapsable things, and watch where your gear is pointed and you shouldn't need protection. If you DO need something up front, buy the best. Most filters sold in camera shops for protection are of pretty low quality and dubious coating, though they represent a big profit maker for stores. That's because good filters are rather expensive, and Joe Blow isn't about to spend $50+ for a high quality, properly coated UV filter*. If you spend good money for good glass, why put 2 more air/glass surfaces of unknown quality up front?

* Don't believe the $50 figure? Look up B+W UV filters on the B&H website and see for yourself (price varies by size, 52mm = less expensive, 67mm = OUCH!).

Great post! Thanks for sharing that