UV Filter for EF 50mm f/1.8 II

[heshanj]

Hi, I'm getting my 50/1.8 soon and I would like to ask is it necessary to get a UV Filter for this lens?

Read some post saying that the front element is deep enough to prevent stray fingers from touching and stuff but...do I at least have to get it?

Thanks.

i think u may be referring to the thread i started about the same topic.. most responses i got suggested that its not worth buying a really good filter coz, like people have mentioned here, the lens itself isnt that expensive.. and its better to leave it as it is, instead of putting a cheap filter that could possibly degrade image quality etc.. so thats wat im dong, leaving it without filter

 

[ianhyk]

I think it's unwise to use those cheapo 10 bucks hoya filters over any lens.. If you really want a filter for protection get a good one.. I just think that you shouldn't put a 10 buck crap glass over a 120 dollar lens... Going to give you more flare. Just my opinion

 

[josshing]

where u get ur uv filter from?

 

[LBL2009]

Simple maths -

Lens $120. Buy a cheap UV filter at $10. Total cost $130.
When something happens
1. get another $10 UV filter, cost becomes $140
2. without UV filter, get another lens, cost is now $120+$120 = $240
Conclusion - $100 saving. go ahead with a $10 UV filter but you may wonder whether it is the skill or the UV filter when pics do not meet your expectation.

Lens $120, buy better UV filter at $40. Total cost $160
When something happens
1. get another $40 UV filter, cost becomes $200
2. without UV filter, get another lens, cost is now $120+$120 = $240.
Conclusion - Save $40. Forget about the protection and there is only one variable to work on - the skill.

But if you are always worried without a UV filter, then the calculation is not relevant.

 

[Octarine]

where u get ur uv filter from?

Mind you, there are photography shops and people selling them
Addresses and links you will find in the Marketplace and Consumer Corner.

 

[ianhyk]

Simple maths -

Lens $120. Buy a cheap UV filter at $10. Total cost $130.
When something happens
1. get another $10 UV filter, cost becomes $140
2. without UV filter, get another lens, cost is now $120+$120 = $240
Conclusion - $100 saving. go ahead with a $10 UV filter but you may wonder whether it is the skill or the UV filter when pics do not meet your expectation.

Lens $120, buy better UV filter at $40. Total cost $160
When something happens
1. get another $40 UV filter, cost becomes $200
2. without UV filter, get another lens, cost is now $120+$120 = $240.
Conclusion - Save $40. Forget about the protection and there is only one variable to work on - the skill.

But if you are always worried without a UV filter, then the calculation is not relevant.

I would get a lens hood to protect front element if i was really concerned about it being scratched. as long as you use it carefully the chances of damaging front element is really low. in all the lenses i have used i've never accidentally scratched it before. furthermore for the 50 f1.8 there is a little 'rim' to protect the front glass.

sometimes the flare that uv filters introduce may manifest as decreased contrast and saturation in the picture, so i always stay away from cheap ones

 

[josshing]

Just got my 50mm 1.8, was thinking of getting a filter initially, since i got one for my 18-200mm, but then when i play with the lens, i find that the lens glass is actually design in a way it's more hidden by the front, so i dont think i will need a filter for this lens. =)

 

[azrinarizz]

Just get a cheap filter for protection I will put a filter everytime I buy a new lens. It helps you prevent unwanted things to happen to your glass!

 

[kohanson]

I bought a 3rd party petal lens hood for my 50mm just to protect the lens as i'm lazy to put in and out the lens cover. :bsmilie: