filter question

[slayer7124]

i posted this in the nikon camera equipment thread but i wanted to do it here as well to see what you guys think. i want to get a circular polarizer filter for my 18-135mm lens. i heard B+W, hoya and tiffens are good. do you guys have any preferences/experiences with any? thanks!

[Loupey]

I don't think any filters are a "must have" save one - a protection filter (clear - no color cast) - and that used only when one needs protection.

When I used to shoot film, I used CP's quite often. I haven't touched mine in over a year. I think the effect is over-the-top when used with digital equipment.

Enough with the lecture

When I bought my last CP, my local camera store carried basically three grades (the manufacturer I don't recall now). The dealer referred to these grades as "economy", "prosumer grade", and "digital". I countered with "cheapo", "OK", and "got-to-be-kidding" grades. They know me well at this shop Anyway, I bought the "OK" grade for about $40. I don't think the $100 version would be noticeable IMO. I probably could have gotten away with the cheapo version for as little as I (don't) use it.

What was the question?.... Oh, right, did that help?

[slayer7124]

haha, the question was......i dont even remember anymore are filters obsolete because you can pretty much do what they do on a computer program instead?

thanks for the response loupey, as always!

[Loupey]

are filters obsolete because you can pretty much do what they do on a computer program instead?

Some aren't. Polarizers, neutral density, and split neutral density filters will always find some applications out in the field.

If one is a Boy Scout and wants to always be prepared, then the above three (along with the protection filter mentioned previously) should always be in the bag.

To eliminate troublesome glare while at the scene or to get deep blue skies when there aren't any, then you really do need to use CP's. I'm a firm believer in getting the shot right in-camera and doing only the basic post processing on the computer.

If you're interested, I can probably dig through some files and find a CP example.

[Canon_Bob]

I only use CP filters any more. B+W makes the best, but the others are cheaper and acceptable.

[slayer7124]

yea, the three or four filters you mentioned ive seen mentioned elsewhere as being the good filter kit one might need. i probably could have used a polarizer filter today on a little hike i went on. sun was right on me, skies were a little hazy.

its not a necessity for you to dig up pictures, but if you come across some feel free, i wont mind!