Benefits of using lens filters?

[kamran]

Hello,

Sorry for my ignorance but I really don't know what each type of lens filter does. Many photographers say that filters are a must on the lens but a few others say that with digital, there's not much use of the filters anymore. For example, my Nikkor 70-300mm came with a filter attached that reads SKY 1A 62mm (that's the lens thread) and I don't what it is for.

If you could list the type of filters available and their uses, I would be grateful.

Thanks.

Regards,
Kamran

[Nnnnsic]

That's a skylight... pretty much useful for protecting the lens.

Say you accidentally scratch the glass in the very front of your lens... which would you prefer... a scratched filter or a scratched lens?

Other filters produce different effects, however, something being digital or not still has nothing to do with somethine like a skylight filter being used.

[kamran]

What about the CPL filter? Many have suggested me to put one. Is it any useful ?

[Doughnut]

Hi,

A CPF (Circular Polarizer Filter) is useful to reduce glare from non-metallic surfaces such as water and glass windows. It also provides colour and contrast enhancement for example, on overcast days. I usually carry a CPF on my hiking/landscape photo trips where I use it to bring out the contrast of the clouds and the sky.

Cheers,
Edward

[digitor]

Have a look at this site:

http://www.camerafilters.com/

Cheers