UV Lens Filters: Necessary or Nuisance?

www.steeletrai... - Should you use a UV, clear, or haze filter on your camera lens, or is it just an unnecessary nuisance that may degrade the quality of your photos? Learn the answer in this tutorial from photographer Phil Steele.
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[@steeletraining]

Watch more of my free tutorials that are not on KZbin: www.steeletraining.com/

[@jrkovar]

Blending photography, psych, and biological natural selection in a 10 minute video? I might have a new KZbin hero.

[@steeletraining]

Happy to be your hero! Thanks!

[@cypriankazimierz3416]

same here!

[@pvcboard]

we are camera filter factory, I am looking for dealer. [e-mail]

[@urielramirez27]

Learn about photography and about life in the same video. I love it.

[@Koucna337]

Yes we did lol

[@Koucna337]

Awesome

[@pvcboard]

we are camera filter factory, I am looking for dealer. [e-mail]

[@Joizygyrl926]

I've started attending KZbin University for photography when Quarantine started last year lol. Today the algorithm put this video in my recommendations. Best one it's ever sent my way...

[@vernonsmith6176]

Try Derrell ho-shing 5 tips for better portraits on budget...

[@spytromics]

That was a great video. I agree that having a good quality filter is key. It's funny that no one ever says to me "Did you use a filter for this photo? I think it could be 5% better."

[@darrendavenport3334]

spytromics thats because they are saying your photos could be 100% better ...

[@dimitrijekrstic7567]

@@darrendavenport3334 wrecked him

[@TheAnimaloons]

Thanks, Phil. Your clear, common sense explanations are always top notch. When I was a DSLR newbie years ago, your videos took me to the next level and I've been a fan of your tutorials since.

[@steeletraining]

Thanks Joel! Comments like that make my day.

[@emgee44]

My thoughts exactly

[@boris.dupont]

Re negativity bias: to many new photographers spending an extra $50 to protect their lens is unnecessarly painful... until they actually break one. I'm new to this channel and I love every bit of it so thank you!

[@ent3r807]

You are not only a master of photography but also a person with highly logical sense!

[@cwb1400]

I just got a camera and learning photography. By accident I ran across this channel and I can’t get enough of it! I was so overwhelmed when I first got my camera and I have learned so much watching these videos. I love the explanation on the filters and the discussion of negativity bias… talk about an amazing video! Thank you!

[@originunknown3209]

Absolutely spot on Sir! Protect that front element but take the filter off when you think best! 👏👏👏

[@pvcboard]

we are camera filter factory, I am looking for dealer. [e-mail]

[@whatisjoedoing]

wow. that escalated quickly.

[@Koucna337]

Yes Lord I'm new and I had to take a breather lol But I'll go ahead and out my UV filter on. Lol

[@Koucna337]

great clip as always thank u

[@Daybara]

Hey, I love your channel. I that that was you. God Bless Bro.

[@juurstudio]

This is indeed probably the most down-to-earth, common sense, no-BS approach to the topic that I've seen on KZbin or anywhere else frankly, and the one that I've been using myself for quite some time. I'm usually keeping the protective filter on by default, especially when outside or traveling, but take it off when I'm going in for the potential money shot. I also usually remove it indoor studio settings and rather keep the hood to protect it from a casual fingerprint etc.

[@smithasureshholisticnutrit6287]

I am as yet an aspiring DSLR owner and even I gained incredible value from this video. Thank you sir for making it so clear and balanced. I was already going to comment in appreciation and then.... Negativity bias....blew my mind

[@younicbic]

I would listen to this guy for hours. Great comunication skills 👍👍👍

[@jammyn7368]

Just put a Hoya HD UV filter on my Nikkor 70-200 F/2.8 E FL lens and was looking for confirmation basis for my decision. Thanks for the thoughtful and simple analysis. Works for me :)

[@glorialamarr]

Phil, your teaching of photography is simply amazing. In the short time you summarize all the necessities and I feel very grateful because you share your acknowledgments so generously.

[@lilithskyblue]

Thanks you for your straight forward no nonsense tutorials. You keep a steady stream of knowledge going without having to give it a second thought. And you don't talk about your personal life (unless it has to do with photography) like many other people on tutorials do. Thanks again, learned a lot.

[@bw5260]

Thanks for this information! I'm an amateur photographer in San Diego, so your SD shoutout made my ears perk up.

[@ezraodole933]

this has to be one of the best clearest explanations of any topic I've heard on youtube

[@Omarography]

Unbiased and comprehensive. A rare gem on YT. Thanks a million!

[@shaktisubramanian9322]

Excellent informative video. Personally I have had protective filters on the front of my lenses since I first started photography back in 1974. I am glad you mentioned quality as well because the filters I use start with German Schott glass and although some might find paying $125 for a 77mm filter is a bit high, the protection of the front elements of Canon L lenses is important to me. This video just validates my personal choice over the decades.

[@donerightmark1240]

Man I wish you were my neighbor! I love learning from someone that actually can teach. Thank you for explaining so well! I love your videos. So helpful no matter what subject you pick. Even if I already think I know it all, you come along and prove to me I don't!

[@realmendontgiveafcuk4384]

I've seen a couple of videos and I like this guy so far ...no nonsense, straight talking, unbiased advise with a full range of examples as well as no monotonous intros...its topic then a quick intro and most importantly it's accurate information. Definitely subscribing. Looking forward to other videos. 👍👏👏👏

[@EzMeck]

last few minutes of your speech bought me! Thanks for sharing the philosophy.

[@warrenreif5369]

I love your risk/ reward summary at the end along with all the technical details along the way. When searching for photography questions, when I see a video by Phil Steele, it's the first one clicked! Hope your making serious $$ on your seriously useful training videos.

[@steeletraining]

Thanks Warren!

[@CalmBeforeTheStorm76]

What a great, objective review of lens filters... Who else is talking about negativity bias in their reviews to recommend what's right for each individual?? Well done...

[@harikrishnan1954]

I was searching on the internet after buying my new DSLR about this matter. After reading many forums and articles I found this video. Neatly and well explained. Many thanks.

[@oyeahjoh]

You sir, are the real Dr. Phil. I salute you!

[@dianaoliver5266]

No-nonsense clear answer. Information-packed and worth every minute of watching (I took notes.) Now I get it because he explains much more vital info than the other videos I've watched. For me, it was a bonus (near the end) about his info about negativity bias since I love behavior/psychology. Thanks for a great video!

[@michaelpetzold3073]

Not only did you answer my question well, your tutorial is an excellent example of how a great video tutorial can be done. Thank you!

[@tbtries9199]

I'm just starting out on my photography side hustle, and am glad I have content like this to help me out so early in the journey.

[@silversteeler99]

Absolutely right. Dust will eventually accumulate on your lenses over time without you visibly noticing it. I've learned to remove my UV filter when I'm taking photos indoors, such as in museums. Also, my compliments on your informative videos.

[@nonamedrumguy1049]

Thank you for your information, and for being professional - instead of being one of the "You need this filter!", or "Why You Should Never Use a UV Filter!" guys.

[@pvcboard]

we are camera filter factory, I am looking for dealer. [e-mail]

[@ppapdddar6159]

I am amazed by how good these Steele's videos are. Thank you very much for doing them.

[@pvcboard]

we are camera filter factory, I am looking for dealer. [e-mail]

[@traceekeeney7942]

Awesome video - you are so thorough at your explanation that you don't leave any "why's" on the table. Hope that makes sense. So many videos make statements but never say why.

[@venkpaps]

I bought the filters long back without knowing , what for , and found proper answer today. Awesome video

[@brianpalmer6385]

I live in a heavily wooded lot. There is always some sort of tiny sap drops falling on the cars. I can relate.

[@rebelliongen949]

Perfect explanation and great video as always Phil, keep up the good work...

[@steeletraining]

Thanks for the kind words. Comments like that keep me inspired!

[@veronicaefros3043]

1

[@zx128ks]

Best explanation whether you should use UV or not!!!! I've seen a lot of videos where you hear either yes or no. I completely agree with you, it's absolutely depends on conditions you're shooting in. Spending $50 is worth for $1000 lens when you think that you may damage front element and you always can remove it if you wish. Another thing is that many people think they have insurance like extended warranty which may cover accidents including ones with front element and they will replace your gear, but nobody knows that you'll receive back a good copy of that lens.

[@zachleroux5783]

This is one of the best videos I've seen in a long time.

[@edverosky]

Since most of my work is Boudoir and other types of indoor portraiture, I'm not faced with too many of the hazards you mentioned. However, I agree with you 100% when it comes to most other situations. There really is no reason NOT to protect your lens this way, and I seriously doubt anyone's going to be able to see the difference in clarity when a good quality filter is used. Great video.

[@johnlynn2]

What a pleasure to listen to calm logic. Thanks Phil for a great explanation.

[@Maggie617]

I love how you express yourself and how you explain the negativity bias. I personally prefer to protect my lenses than obtain that flawless shot.

[@visualmars]

Wow. I was on the fence about getting a UV filter solely for impact protection, but I completely forgot about airborne particles! I plan on shooting in club/concert events where there's a bunch of oil in the air, and it's now a no-brainer that I get a filter. Great video!

[@stellaq3306]

Ooh Yes! A sweaty crowd dancing & shaking heads = salts & oils. Plus the possibility of flying droplets from spilt drinks containing Cola & such, this is a situation where I never risk an unprotected lens. My UV filter has paid for itself several times over.

[@AhmadThabet-qw1kc]

Many Thanks Phil, Filters are extremely important for protection. I had an Olympus Zuiko Lens 65-200 Zoom F4 and had polarising filter attached to it. I accidently dropped the lens while I was ready to mount it on my Camera Body. It was dropped on the bus floor and the filter was bent and the glass cracked thus saving my very expensive brand Zoom Lens. Besides, for nature and portraits they give an excellent colour balance without any reflections.

[@juansol1499]

Thanks for your explanation. I totally agree with you. About 15 years ago, or so, I was visiting Egypt as a tourist, enjoying all of their old history and monuments. My brand new Nikon D100 went to the floor from my dining table, but I was lucky: the only part that was broken was the protective filter in my 24-120mm lens. Otherwise, the more than 1.000 dollars lens had been broken or damaging the front part or the lens. Since then, I always use a protective filter (from 20 through 100 dollars, depending on the lens), except for the cases you have mentioned, (I love astronomy pictures) and except for the fish eye lenses, of course. Thanks again.

[@JonVlogs123]

I loved the psychological explanation at the end. I agree, I'd rather protect the lens than squeeze out one more drop of clarity. :)

[@jasonhatfield4747]

I totally agree with your points and think you have the most practical method for using UV/Clear filters. I follow the same methods

[@tyke29]

I have just ordered a new lens and once I had chosen the lens I thought was best, I actually placed the order for the UV filter first. At this moment I have a 72mm filter and still waiting for the lens to arrive. Thanks for another great video.

[@vinuisaacj]

Whenever I get that itch to take off the UV filter for that 100% optical quality, I just rewatch this video. Works every time.

[@robstammers7149]

Well, it may be a couple of years since you made this video, but the debate rages on, I've just acquired a Sony R1, and believe you me, a clear UV is going on the front, the Zeis lens on the R1 is big, and I would hate to damage it. Great video, clearly explained.

[@jasonschlencker8108]

Great vid. A filter is cheap insurance for even a medium priced lens. 99% of humans could not tell the difference between photos taken with clear, UV or no filter. Regards, Jas. Rockhampton Queensland Australia

[@mgshn]

Phil, Outstanding explanation! Your presentations keep getting better (and they started of pretty darn good). Keep up the great work.

[@cs512tr]

this makes me very glad i invested in a clear filter for my F100

[@iamhondo]

Great video. I love the psychology angle, too. The "don't need a filter for protection" crowd sounds like they might not use seat belts or carry a spare tire. About astrophotography: Dew is a common problem. Heater straps can warm the lens to remove dew, but..... With no filter you need to wrap the strap around the focus ring and heat the whole (poorly conducting) body to warm the fogged lens. With a filter, you can add a stack of metal step-up rings and wrap the heater around the step-up stack to conduct heat to the filter. Faster heating, lower power demand. Only the outermost glass surface needs to warm above the dew point, so why heat the whole lens body?

[@tonytfuntek3262]

Looks like we're on the same page. When I'm doing street photography or setting up by the ocean the filter goes on. Landscapes the filter is off. BTW, it sounds like the spot you got on your filter may have been oil based. Next time try WD-40 to dissolve the spot then a dish washing detergent to clean off the WD-40 followed by lens tissue. It goes without saying I'm talking about doing this on the filter when it's OFF the lens. Thanks, great video.

[@nagarajananda]

dang. your droplet story convinced the heck out of me. UV filter acquired.

[@skylergreene7404]

i was hooked as soon as he mentioned burning man and "negativity bias"

[@verutumnorton4662]

a very concise, clear presentation! Just the information I was looking for. Thanks!

[@LOioma]

Thanks for thoughtful explanation! Subscribed to your channel for a few years, and every one of your videos is a gift to viewers :-)

[@BGTuyau]

Good presentation on the topic. That said, I'm now better informed but still undecided. Thank You.

[@RKV1700]

Literally The Best Explanation Bravo Sir, Absolutely Impressed By The Explanation.

[@fredschum]

That was super nice to hear an objective answer to those question. I really enjoy your approach and the way your compose your videos. Thanks for sharing Fred

[@anthonyskellern5970]

Very impressive observation... part technical document part, part balanced judgement, and part articulate philosophy. KZbin for grown-ups!

[@steeletraining]

KZbin for grown-ups, I love it!

[@Productum]

Well explained! :) Last week I bought a Hoya UV Filter ... it's totally worth protecting lenses! I'm happy with it! :)

[@jerseyjoe3214]

Great public speaker!! Very knowledgeable and professional!

[@d-watshoustonsfinest7363]

I Just posted a comment that the only time I don't watch my favorite nerd (Gerald Undone) is if there is something hedoesn't have. For I happened to be shopping for tripods when I saw you recommeded after typing that comment. I have watched 3 of your vids, and now have a 2nd favorite nerd. Sub'd, Mr. Steele. P.S. Nerd is a great thing. All Love, my man.

[@steeletraining]

I love Gerald Undone, too. My brother from another mother.

[@kibitzer6066]

man this guy is a good teacher

[@trout4bait549]

Fantastic! You have a new fan and a new student in me.

[@judyt3544]

Thanks Cliff, you have provided such important and detailed information. No more debate for me..should I or shouldn't I use the UV Lens Filter.

[@DroitAnimal]

You convinced me. I will get a filter ASAP.

[@cokestudiomusic9865]

Excellent, clear and concise, always super helpful

[@prodeep]

This is the best UV filter review in youtube ...

[@42DontPanic]

Amazing explanation and as I am just starting the hobby so i just make photos and clips, I use UV filter because me and my budget say that the risk of a damaged lens is to high, not to use one. Thanks for giving me the push to the right direction... at least for me ;). Cheers Detlef

[@craig_m_mi]

Saw the link to this on PhotoCamel and it was a good informative video. Well discussed and correct, without telling us exactly what to do.

[@Sunrazor]

Well almost no damage you can do to the front lens element will show in your pictures. The front lens is actually not as expensive to replace as you think either. The glass of a filter is so thin that it will probably do more damage if broken than it does good. This said, I use filters to. Mostly because it is required on my lenses to complete the weather seal, and it is easier to clean a flat surface. But it barely justifies a filter. At least not for the cleaning properties.

[@FlatWaterFilms]

Had a $1,200 lens drop off in a waterfalls while shooting not long ago. Gone.. Not only did I buy a replacement, I also picked up a backup camera. Now I have both the 5D IV and 90D.

[@davidbell6516]

Thanks Phil, just discovered your web page whilst scanning YOUTube. Great tutorials.

[@tomwebb3081]

I'm very much on the fence about this & can see both sides of the argument. One place I had to forgo filters entirely was Iceland. Because I was in and out of hot/cold (indoors/outdoors) I was finding the warm air layer trapped between the filter and front element caused a haze when the water in that warm air condensed on the front filter. It's certainly not a usual position many photographers find themselves in but it's worth learning from my error if you're in a similar situation.

[@joelwexler]

You shouldn't put your camera in that situation to begin with. The condensation inside your cam and lenses is far worse. Keep it airtight until it warms.

[@boasorte8595]

Thank you for your clarity.

[@snehsaluja]

The last part was amazing :) I love your videos.

[@pvcboard]

we are camera filter factory, I am looking for dealer. [e-mail]

[@nikonmark37814]

Have you checked eBay lately? Lots of lenses with scratched front elements or damage to the coating. If you use a quality filter and a lens hood it's almost impossible to damage the front lens element. Another reason to use filters is in the resale value of your lens is diminished with lens coating damage.

[@raajjann]

Good point about mist, beach!

[@aussie8114]

If anyone might be interested l did some testing with the Hoya HD FILTER protector. I tested it on my Nikon D810 with the 24-70 f2.8g lens. I tested it comparing the gear with and without the 77mm filter fitted. I found that the filter has no flaring issues. I could not induce increased flaring with the filter fitted even with the midday sun in the image frame. I tested it also for image degradation regarding loss of detail / sharpness. I found at normal viewing image size there was no issue. Only if the image is magnified by about 200% can l see a tiny loss of detail. At 400% it is a little more obvious but still very insignificant. Even though l am a detail pixel peeper l choose to keep the filter rather than try more brands. The tiny loss of detail can easily be rectified by a very small increase in clarity / sharpness in camera adjustment. Hoyas claim that the filter does not have the slightest effect on image quality is technically not correct but the loss is so tiny it may as well be a true enough statement. Just be sure to buy filters from a reputable store. Don't buy online as so many are fakes.

[@perrypelican9476]

I agree but I would add that a beginner should always use a filter for protection because at the beginning for the first months or more, you are trying things and learning more than fine tuning heavily. No use risking lens damage for small improvements hardly noticeable and nit mattering until later on.

[@jarhead3736]

thank you so much your tutorials are clear and have all the information i'm looking for that other channels don't! 10/10 channel!!!

[@Ebu26]

This is the best answer to this question, btw loved the psychology bit at the end 😄👍

[@don06281]

I have often heard the argument, "why would anyone want to put a cheap piece of glass on their expensive lens?" In this case, cheap is a relative term - when compared to a lens that costs anywhere up to several thousand dollars, even a $100 filter is "cheap." But what people fail to realize is the other difference between a $100 filter and and $1,000 or more lens -- R&D and manufacturing costs. Let's face it -- a filter is just a single piece of glass (except polarizers, of course), in an aluminum or brass frame. But a lens is many pieces of glass, all ground to exacting specifications, mounted in a body that also contains AF mechanics, sometimes VR or IS gear, and possible zoom capabilities. All of that combined is what makes the lens so expensive. The filter, on the other hand, is (hopefully) flat on both sides, making it infinitely easier and cheaper to manufacture. However, I have also ad lenses knocked out of my hands, and while the filter was destroyed, the front element of that expensive lens was unscathed. UV filters 100% of the time. Even when using a polarizer. I mean, I don't want to have dust settling on my lens while I'm changing from UV to polarzier or back . . .

[@共用帳號-h5p]

Thank you for clear analysis and supporting theory of human brain effects, this did help me a lot when making decision.

[@jessedameron7985]

Wow. Now THAT was thorough! Good stuff.

[@khuo0219]

Nice video, though I would change "negativity bias" to "loss aversion" which is how the scientist originally named it. Correct use of the concept though, props for diving deeper into the issue than other KZbinrs. The dust covered camera makes me sweat 😓 .

[@gabicohen1345]

You're just amazing. I could not find a better video on UV filters. You gave me order in my thoughts and wondering. I thank you very much. God bless you.

[@steeletraining]

Thanks for the kind words, Gabi!

[@clean.parker]

I have magnifying glass I screw onto my lens for macro photography. I find it to be much better than extension tubes, as they let more light in. I haven't had any obvious issues, and I'm pretty sure I didn't spend more than $15.00 for the set of four. I buy inexpensive, old (10-13 years old), but solid cameras off of KEH. I buy inexpensive lens' as well. I'm perfectly happy, which is why I don't know why people argue or care about how others use their gear. It's weird. At the end of the day some photographers need to spend more time creating learning moments and less boushie moments.

[@MichelleLynn725]

"Wired to avoid risk" ... I get it. No wonder there are times I'm not the careful-est of girls with my expensive art tools, while I'll flip out about something that is arguably small and easily replaced or remedied. Then there is Art vs. Paid Gig. THERE is another strange set of slippery priorities that wouldn't make a lot of sense one professional to the next. I'm glad you brought this psychology up in your video. Takes the heat and mystery away from the confusion - or rather, argument and indecision.

[@bodinian]

Based on what I've learned about lenses so far, I'm getting a filter and keeping it on

[@denisobrien699]

No fluff, informative and interesting. Thank you.

[@pvcboard]

we are camera filter factory, I am looking for dealer. [e-mail]

[@XENONEZZ2]

This all makes a lot of sense and especially for people with a brand new fixed lens camera because they obviously face the risk of having to replace the whole camera should the lens become significantly degraded for some reason.

[@AgnesEtienne]

Perfect explanation. I like your down-to-earth tutorial, Phil. Thank you.

[@pvcboard]

we are camera filter factory, I am looking for dealer. [e-mail]

[@Techno-Universal]

Apparently most digital cameras including Sony APS-C cameras are sensitive to UV light but are not too sensitive so it can actually provide to be a significant advantage in certain situations such as getting a very surreal and deep colour contrast effect on birds with UV reflective feathers for example! :)

[@yuriyyurchenko7219]

I started with having a filter for every lens. Now I have filters only on 30% of lenses and I have my system when to use filter, and when not to. 1. Telephoto lenses usualy work at the edge of their ability. If you need a filter, use an expensive one, or better none. 2. If the front element is deep inside your lens, no use worrying about a filter. Plus if you put on a filter, you loose the natural hood from your lens. 3. Wide-angle usualy have big front elements that are located at the very front of your lens. These lenses have very short or none hood. It's easy to tought with your fingers of have something spilt on it. That's where you need a filter for all the time (except when you are shooting something line a night sky).