Protective Filter for my new AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm f/4G ED VR lens

Gonzalez49

New member
I have just purchased the above lens for my D850 camera. I am an old-school photographer having had Nikon SLRs since the 1970s and following the advice of my father I have always purchased good quality UV filters for my lenses, partly for the UV filter function but also to protect the lens. The last filter I purchased was the Hoya HDX Protector filter which as far as I can see does not have the UV filter function, it is just clear glass. I have no complaints about it.

I know that opinions are divided on the subject of the value of UV filters, on digital cameras but if I am going to buy a filter to protect the lens, should I go for the Protector, or for one with UV filtering as well?
 

BF Hammer

Senior Member
UV (and IR) filtering is done by a filter that already exists in front of the image sensor. It is only needed if a camera is modified to full-spectrum by removing that sensor filter, as some people will have done for astrophotography use.

But double-filtering UV will cause no harm or degrade your photo any more than shooting through an extra glass layer will do.
 

nikonbill

Senior Member
Contributor
I have Nikon NC (neutral clear) "filters" for lens protection very nice no effect filters. I think they are the best, I can't tell they are there.

I also use a Tiffen clear filter on one lens and it's ok, less money than the Nikon's in most sizes.

Protection for your front element is a reasonable idea, not just old school 😉 as noted UV is mostly not needed
 
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