There’s a high chance you’ve heard of the term UV filter while browsing some camera-related content. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering ‘what does a UV filter do for a camera?’, this article will answer all of your questions.
We will explain in detail what a UV filter is, what it does, how it works, and its benefits. We will also answer your frequently asked questions. By the end of the article, you’ll fully understand what a UV filter does for a camera.
What Does a UV Filter Do for a Camera?
A UV filter has tempered glass that blocks out UV light. It is a lens filter that shuts out UV light on images that reduces the quality of an image, causing blue blur on pictures and other similar surfaces. It is a layer of protection that shields camera lenses from water, dust, rain droplets, dirt, sand, and other small particles.
An ultraviolet (UV) lens filter is essential for photographers because they aid in protecting expensive lenses. It’s easier to replace your filter after it has been through a lot than it is to replace your lens. Additionally, with the use of UV filters, you can shoot in any kind of weather without worrying about your camera lens. Photographers who mainly shoot outdoors will find UV filters essential.
A UV lens filter is attached to the front of the camera to prevent it from damage and filter out unneeded elements. It’s important to note that UV filters do not prevent your camera from internal damage. You should be careful with them. Although they are a source of protection for your lenses, they can be damaged easily.
Do UV Filters Reduce Image Quality
There’s a misconception about UV filters reducing image quality. While the image quality can be reduced when using UV filters, the good thing is that you only have to worry about this when you use low-quality filters.
With more quality UV filters, the only instance you might notice an image quality reduction is if you use more than one filter on your camera and this is because the light is passing through several layers of glass. Whatever the downside of using UV filters is, you’ll find its benefits outweighs them.
When Should I Not Use UV Filters
There’s no specific instance when using a UV lens filter is bad. Most photographers find it essential, while others don’t see a difference in using them. When it comes to deciding whether or not to use UV filters, it is totally up to your personal preference. At the same time, if you notice the UV filters you have are low quality, you might want to ditch them because they will cause more harm than good.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a UV Filter
There are several benefits of using a UV filter, and they include:
1. It serves as an extra layer of protection during outdoor photography
When shooting outdoors, there’s the risk of sand, dirt, dust particles, etc., coming in contact with your camera lens. This protective filter ensures those particles are captured and don’t affect your shooting. It also prevents rain droplets or liquid from touching your lenses and damaging them.
2. It blocks out UV light and bright light
If you use an analog camera, then you know how sensitive they are to UV light. Using a UV protection filter reduces the amount of blue blur on your image caused by UV light.
3. It prevents your camera lens from damage
Whether you use an expensive lens or not, this piece of glass is necessary for preventing damage. If you’re shooting during indoor events, there’s the possibility of people bumping into your camera and damaging the lens surface. With your filter, there’s the reassurance that your filter is there to protect your lens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there cons to UV filters?
Yes, there are several cons to using a UV filter for a camera. It should be noted that these disadvantages only come with using cheap UV filters. For instance, a low-quality UV filter can cause blur in your photos. This impact on image quality can be a major downside, but as long as you use the top-quality filter, you don’t have to worry about any downside.
Are UV filters expensive?
Whether UV protection lens filters are expensive or not depends on the brand you’re going for. It’s not uncommon to find some for just $20, but there are others above $100. There are different price ranges for UV filters. One important tip to keep in mind is to check if the price of the filters matches the quality and value. So high-priced filters should equal high-quality filters with a range of features. Otherwise, you are just wasting money.
Do I need to get a UV filter for my camera?
Yes, you need a UV filter. There are several benefits of using a UV filter especially if you use a traditional film camera. Some modern cameras (digital cameras) have in-built digital sensors that perform the job of a UV filter like reducing UV light.
Although this is true, the advantages of having a UV filter are still worth it, including protecting your lens from scratches. Even with a digital camera, the investment will pay off.
Can an amateur use UV filters?
Yes, an amateur can use camera lens UV protection filters. It’s not restricted to the professionals alone. Hobbyists can use UV filters to protect their lenses and prevent dirt or dust from covering the lenses at any time.
Conclusion
If you’re into photography and have been wondering “what does a UV filter do for a camera” or if you even need it, we’ve broken down the reasons you need to get one. In summary, they’re important for extending the lifespan of your camera lens.
However, you need to do thorough research to ensure you get one that best suits your needs. For example, ensure you get a UV filter multi-resistant coating and high-grade UV light protection as they will last longer and give your camera lens better protection.