Are all UV filters created equal?

[jorgemonkey]

I was cleaning my lenses last night, and I noticed I have some generic UV filters, and a few Tiffen UV filters, and I got to thinking, is there a difference in quality of the filter, or am I just crazy?

[JSPhoto]

filters are just like lenses, some are better than others, and like lenses, you will pay for the good stuff. I had one cheap UV filter that changed the colors of photos, and as it got older it changed them less and less. Turned out the coating was coming off every time I cleaned it.....lol
I now use the Hoya UV (0) filter as it doesn't change colors, it simply blocks UV and thats it. I basically use it just to protect the front element from damage as it's cheaper to replace a $40 filter than the front element!

JS

[another view]

Cheaper filters are more prone to flare and also altering colors that they're not supposed to. This can be noticable when comparing neutral density and polarizer filters too. I figure that as long as I'm springing for a nice lens, I should get a good quality filter for it because a chain is only as stong as it's weakest link so to speak.

I rarely use UV filters, but always recommend using a lens hood. Different schools of thought on this.

[jorgemonkey]

The lenses that I have with hoods I always have them on for protection as well. I might try swapping filters on one of my lenses if I have time to see if there is any noticable difference.

[Harry Hing]

Nope. what you need to look at is the bandwidth of the filter. basically the word UV describes the Ultra Violet end of the spectrum, biut this is split up into UVA, B, and C

Depending upon the application, and the film used, some will or will not be suitable. some of the lens elements in your camera in your camera may also filter out UV light

[mwfanelli]

Nope. what you need to look at is the bandwidth of the filter. basically the word UV describes the Ultra Violet end of the spectrum, biut this is split up into UVA, B, and C

Depending upon the application, and the film used, some will or will not be suitable. some of the lens elements in your camera in your camera may also filter out UV light

FWIW, UV light has not affected film for at least 20 years. Digital cameras have a UV filter on the sensor. UV filters are used for "protection" only these days. But that is another discussion!