Filter Basics

[sarboo]

Hullo

Finally took the step up to getting a dSLR (the Canon 40D) and with it the 50mm f/1.8 II

Having never used filters before, which ones are a must-have? At this stage I'm not fussed about filters with fancy effects, but just the basic must-have-in-bag ones.

Thanks

 

[Eric Mc]

The only real "must have" is probably a circular polarizer as it's the only one who's effect can't be reproduced in photoshop

 

[sarboo]

can it be left on i.e. as a lens protector? or will I need something separate for that?

 

[Keltic Ice Man]

For a leave on filter - try a UV or a daylight filter

 

[CT]

I think in this digital age, the only really essential filter is a polariser as Eric said, as most everything else can be done in processing these days. You could argue a strong case though for ND and grads for the landscape guys.

You wouldn't want to leave a polariser on the lens all the while though. If you want protection get a UV or skylight filter.

 

[Keltic Ice Man]

skylight... thats the word - not daylight - I knew someone like CT would help out