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

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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

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

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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benhasajeep

New member
I of course like others used to buy UV filters, but with digital sensors that is no longer needed. I would just pick a good quality coated clear filter (coated to control possible reflections). I lean towards B+W but have bought Hoya, Nikon, and cheper Tiffens and off brands. When I started buying the pricier better filters I bought them at 77mm the largest lens dia that I was going to put a filter on. And then got a set of step down rings. As time went on I added smaller filters to my collection. But one set of step down rings was about the cost of 1 good filter. So for budget conscious it was a money saver.

Also for the 16mm end you may need a slim filter to not vingnette your frame. Not sure if that is the case with that lens, but may think about that.
 
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