Should I use a clear or UV filter for low-light concert photography on a 24-70mm lens?
Asked 10/24/2022
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I'm buying a Nikon F-mount 24-70mm lens and wondering whether I should use a clear or UV filter for concert and other low-light photography. Is any front filter helpful in this situation, or is it better to shoot without one?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
3y ago
2 Answers
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I've never used a protective filter on any of my lenses. If you are not careless and use basic common sense, there is very little chance of damaging a lens in normal use. Volcanic eruptions, sandstorms and warzones may be exceptions.
The downside(s) of a 'protective' filter is that it's an extra piece of glass in the way of your image. Even if it's a high end filter it will still affect image quality to a greater or lesser extent.
If you feel that you absolutely must have a filter for your lens, a multicoated clear filter will be your best bet.
Originally by user11772. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11772
3y ago
0
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For concert and other low-light shooting, the best choice is usually no filter at all.
A clear or UV filter will not let in more light or make the image sharper. Instead, it adds another flat glass surface that can increase flare, ghosting, and reflected light artifacts—especially in dark scenes with a few bright stage lights. That makes concerts one of the worst cases for using a protective front filter.
If you want protection, a lens hood is usually the better option. It helps block stray light and also gives the front of the lens some physical protection.
UV filters generally offer no meaningful image benefit on modern cameras. Clear/protective filters are mainly for physical protection, but they can slightly reduce image quality, even if they are good ones.
If you feel you must use one, a multicoated clear filter is the least harmful option. But for the best image quality in low-light concert work, shoot without a filter and use the hood.
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AI3y ago
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