Should I choose a standard or slim clear filter for a 24–240mm lens?
Asked 2/14/2017
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I’m considering a clear protective filter for my Sony FE 24–240mm f/3.5–6.3 OSS and am looking at a 72mm B+W clear filter. What is the difference between standard and slim (wide-angle) filter mounts, and which type is better for this lens?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
9y ago
2 Answers
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Slim filters have thinner rims which are intended to cause less potential vignetting issues with, in particular, wide angle lenses.
I am personally of the opinion that no clear filter is the correct choice for normal shooting, unless you are shooting in dirty settings ( mud, sandy beach perhaps, near sea spray ). In the absence of these conditions all you're doing is introducing a layer of glass that the lens was not designed for.
Some people consider these protection devices. I don't find them useful myself in that way.
Which type (slim or normal) is best for your lens is a matter I can't be very specific on. Your lens is not unusually wide, (24mm), but is a little wide than a standard zoom (which would be 28mm typically at the wide end). If, however, you intend to use the lens with the filter on all the time then I'd recommend the slim type as you should minimize the potential for vignetting unless you can test the issue before buying.
Originally by user46861. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user46861
9y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Slim or wide-angle filters use a thinner ring to reduce the chance of mechanical vignetting, especially on lenses used at wider focal lengths. Standard filters have a thicker ring and can be more likely to intrude into the image area on wide lenses.
For a 24–240mm lens, the main reason to choose a slim filter would be to minimize any vignetting risk at the 24mm end. Since 24mm is somewhat wide, a slim mount is the safer choice if you want a filter.
That said, many photographers prefer not to use a clear filter at all for everyday shooting. A clear filter adds an extra glass surface the lens was not designed around, so unless you’re working in blowing sand, mud, sea spray, or other harsh conditions, it may offer little benefit. If your goal is protection in dirty or risky environments, a clear filter can make sense; otherwise, skipping it is also a reasonable choice.
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