Why You Need a UV Filter for Your Camera Lens

A UV filter is a clear piece of glass that you put on the end of your lens. It does several things to protect your lens and help you continue to take better photos.

First off, it protects the lens itself. Lenses are the most expensive part of photography. Collect several lenses and you will quickly spend more money on them then on your camera body. The more expensive the lens, the more valuable and most of all the photos it produces. Should the lens become scratched, the lens becomes worthless. You need to protect your investment. Putting a UV filter on the end ensures that should something get scratched, its the easily replaceable UV filter and not your actual lens. I never take mine off my lens.

A UV filter also effects your images. It cuts glare off of some reflections. It absorbs UV rays from the sun which cause glare and haze and helps you produce cleaner, clear pictures. Which face it, is the reason you have the expensive equipment in the first place.

It is very important that when you put your filter on your lens, you make sure there is no dust particles between the lens and the filter. Don't put it on in a windy environment, or when its dusty out. Use a lens cleaner to gently brush away dust and particles on the lens then the filter, then apply the filter and clean the front of it.

A UV Filter also keeps the lens in mint condition. Many people buy and sell used camera lenses. By keeping the front glass scratch free and in perfect or mint condition, you ensure that if you do decide to sell or upgrade your lens,you can get the best value out of it.

Because using a UV lens can increase your chances for having lens flare you should also use a lens hood with your lens.

Remember it is far cheaper to replace your UV filter then replace your lens. Putting a UV filter on your lens is one more way to protect your investment.