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.
Very well explained, I am waiting for it from long time……
That’s really helpful, Rob, thank you for the clear tutorial. I just watched this and your lens cleaning video … so the lens pen is on the Amazon wishlist as well as the filters and the step-up rings! Thanks for helping me see the wood for the trees … I will definitely be avoiding the cheap filters after watching this. :)