In this short video I give you a quick overview of 3 different types of filters (UV, Polarizing, and Neutral Density) and when to use them. I also show you how to find out what filter will fit your lens.
ULTRA VIOLET (UV) LENS FILTERS
The Best quality UV filters I’ve used are Carl Zeiss T* UV filters.
You can also find more affordable multicoated UV filters.
CIRCULAR POLARIZING LENS FILTERS
For both polarizing filters and variable neutral density filters remember to get a filter large enough for the biggest lens you anticipate owning. 82mm is best but 77mm might be adequate depending on your system. You can then use step-up rings to use larger filters on your smaller lenses.
- 82mm Carl Zeiss T* circular polarizing filter
- 77mm Carl Zeiss T* circular polarizing filter
- Other 77mm and 82mm circular polarizing filters from B&H Photo
VARIABLE NEUTRAL DENSITY FILTERS
STEP UP RINGS
Step up rings are useful for using large circular polarizing and neutral density filters on smaller lenses.
When you’re buying a step up ring you’ll see the product listed as something like “67-77mm step up ring”. The first number is the size that ring will attached to a specific sized lens. So in this case the ring will attach to a lens with a 67mm filter thread. The second number is the size of filter that you can then attach to the ring (so in this case a 77mm filter can be attached to the ring).
You’ll need to by a different step up ring for the different size lenses you have.
Brass step up rings are better quality and more expensive, but I’ve found the aluminum ones work just fine.