Filter Recommendations?

[duste]

Hey guys,

So I'm a complete noob when it comes to DSLR's - only got my first one yesterday.

It's a Canon EOS 550D (58mm) and from what I've read filters are pretty good in terms of protecting the lenses and improving the colour quality, so I'm keen on getting a couple (UV and/or Polarised?).

So:


- What store would you recommend? Online or retail, not fussed. I bought some gear from Camera House yesterday for it and was quite pleased with the service.

- What brands would you recommend? Camera House stocks HOYA and cokin, what are these like in comparison to the genuine filters I found on Canon's website?


Any other recommendations or advice in general for a DSLR newbie?

Thanks

[FitzyB]

Ive never used a "proper" filter, however ive got a 4$ UV and polarising filter off ebay, and thus far havnt had any issues with them. However since ive never used a proper filter i cant really compare the two.

[duste]

Oh and also, what are everyones thoughts on extended warranty with these cameras? And should I get genuine or just the warranty throughy JB Hi-Fi?

Basically a 5 year warranty through JB is $150 or from what I saw on Canon's website their 3 year genuine warranty is $199.

[Simon]

go the hoya filters.
i have about 6 of them, different grades/size's etc.
picture quality does improve with them.

warranty is a good idea, just incase you drop the camera or lens.

[duste]

Will do, but is there a difference between JB warranty and Canon warranty?

[adrenalin]

Agree

Hoya filters are the way to go

[Magic]

go the hoya filters.
i have about 6 of them, different grades/size's etc.
picture quality does improve with them.

warranty is a good idea, just incase you drop the camera or lens.

warranty covers manufacturer faults not accidental damage.

[duste]

Ended up just getting a cheapo Kenko filter from JB to hold me off until I get to Camera House next. Apparently Kenko and Hoya are made in the exact same factory (Tokina) and are simply re-brands of one another anyway?

[Magic]

They are both owned by the same company (www.thkphoto.com) but the Hoya brand use a better quality glass and the filter ring is stronger with the Hoya.

[DRKWRX]

Also with the UV filters you wont be able to tell much difference in image quality, but you will between a cheaper polarizer and an expensive one, UV filter does fuck all except protect the lens(which is good) unless you shoot film.

[SEXUAL TYRANNOSAURUS]

Make sure you get a lens hood too...

[duste]

Also with the UV filters you wont be able to tell much difference in image quality, but you will between a cheaper polarizer and an expensive one, UV filter does fuck all except protect the lens(which is good) unless you shoot film.

That's the main reason why I wanted one to be honest, so I guess if there's not much difference I'll just stock with this one.

Thanks everyone!

[DRKWRX]

yeah well its easy to test, just setup your camera take a shot without filter and one with filter and if you cant see any quality difference keep it :)

[mitchy]

i've got a couple of 58mm Hoya Pro-1D UV filters...
none of my lenses use 58mm thread now, lol.



Also with the UV filters you wont be able to tell much difference in image quality, but you will between a cheaper polarizer and an expensive one, UV filter does fuck all except protect the lens(which is good) unless you shoot film.

what brand/model CPL do you recommend? i want a 77mm one for my 100-400L, is the Hoya Pro-1D CPL acceptable to put in front of L glass?

[DRKWRX]

I was using a Hoya pro 1d on my L lenses and seemed fine, they seem to be at the higher end, otherwise look at the B&W Keissman filters heard good things about them or Lee if they make them in that size, Im using all Lee filters now.

[SEXUAL TYRANNOSAURUS]

honestly, you wouldn't know the difference, Mitchy! Shits so minimal... The glass isn't thick enough to cause softness...

[mr_rotary]

i've got a couple of 58mm Hoya Pro-1D UV filters...

I've only used these for my equipment and have never had any issues. I usually grab mine off E-bay.