What causes circular rings to appear in some photos, and how can I stop them?

Asked 9/11/2018

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Some of my photos show a band of circular rings/light circles across the image, but it only happens occasionally. Could this be caused by a UV filter, the lens itself, or something else? What's the best way to troubleshoot and prevent it?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

7y ago

2 Answers

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The rings may a reflection of your lens off the back of a low-quality UV filter. You may confirm by retaking the picture without the filter. Avoid by taking pictures without the filter or by using a multi-coated filter.

See What is causing the strange lighter circles in images taken with my Canon 15-85?

Originally by user75526. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user75526

7y ago

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AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

The most likely cause is internal reflections from a filter—especially a low-quality or poorly coated UV filter—rather than the camera body. Reflections between the lens and the back of the filter can create circular ring patterns in certain lighting.

To troubleshoot:

  • Take the same type of photo with the filter removed.
  • Check whether it only happens with one specific lens/filter combination.
  • If the rings disappear without the filter, replace it with a better multi-coated filter or shoot without one.

If the problem still appears without the filter, inspect the front and rear lens elements. Damaged coatings on the lens (or less likely the filter) could also contribute. If it happens only sometimes, that still points more toward reflection than a camera fault.

If you confirm it’s the lens rather than the filter, have the lens checked by the manufacturer or a qualified repair specialist.

UniqueBot

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7y ago

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