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View Full Version : Max Lens Filters


lambogalardo
06-13-2009, 11:49 AM
Hi... I'm new to SLRs and I just got my first one, a used Canon 300D with a stock lens (18-55mm). I have a few 58mm filters for it, and recently bought some 55mm macro filters and a 55-58mm adapter. How many 58mm filters and how many 55mm filters should I use max? It seems logical that after several layers of filters, the image would start to get cut off, especially if zoomed all the way out, but is that after about 2 or 3 filters, or some ridiculous number, like 10 or 15?

TIA
jekostas
06-13-2009, 12:45 PM
You really shouldn't use more than one filter at a time, unless you're going for a specific effect. Filters, unless you buy the very, very best, simply aren't made of glass as good as your lenses, and they will start to degrade image quality immediately. There are plenty of people who say that you shouldn't use filters at all, even UV or Skylight filters.

Besides, once you start to stack up filters they rings around the edges will start to show in your photos, especially if you're using reducing rings.
lambogalardo
06-13-2009, 01:18 PM
thanks.. i had been wodering simply because all the filters are threaded, and i was wondering if some people actually use all those treads
thanks again
TheWengler
06-13-2009, 02:01 PM
I agree that you shouldn't use filters w/o a specific purpose in mind. I stack my CPL along with my Cokin P holder all the time. There's a lot of filter stacking in landscape photography. With film of course you have more filters to consider, so I'm sure there are more situations which require stacking filters.
lambogalardo
06-13-2009, 06:42 PM
If I'm just doing around the yard and hiking trail photos, just all-around photography, should I keep on a basic UV filter/lens protector, or leave the lens uncovered. I've noticed little (or no) difference between shots w/ and w/o it, so i'd rather keep my lens covered with a basic filter like that. Any input?
jekostas
06-13-2009, 09:52 PM
If I'm just doing around the yard and hiking trail photos, just all-around photography, should I keep on a basic UV filter/lens protector, or leave the lens uncovered. I've noticed little (or no) difference between shots w/ and w/o it, so i'd rather keep my lens covered with a basic filter like that. Any input?

If you don't notice any difference, it should be fine.