Effects and Application

UV filters are the best-selling and therefore most widely used filters in photography. The question therefore arises as to what added value these UV filters provide. Are there any visible advantages when photographing with a UV filter? Or is it simply a relic from the past which is still used out of habit? We clarify these questions in this article.

The original function of a UV filter

UV rays are not visible to the human eye. Nevertheless, in photography they have an influence on the image, since the sensors are also sensitive to radiation in the ultraviolet range. This UV radiation can have negative effects on the image if the lens is not corrected for this area. UV filters were formerly used to protect film material. The scattered light in the UV range often led to a “blue cast“, which of course had to be prevented. In addition, more contrast and sharpness could be achieved with a UV filter.

UV filter for digital cameras: superfluous

Today, the sensors of digital cameras and the corresponding lenses are designed to suppress UV radiation. The purchase of a UV filter therefore no longer makes sense today. It is all the more astonishing that the shops still carry a huge range of products in this area. The reason for this is probably the misuse of these filters as lens protection. “No good, no harm, no foul”? No. UV filters can even lead to negative effects when used in combination with special lenses. More about this in the next section.

UV filter for lens protection

Many photographers today use the UV filter only as lens protection. This prevents the lens of the lens from being scratched. A simple protection, so that the lens remains in use longer. The advantage of this application is that you can save on specially coated lenses (scratch-resistant). These coated lenses are very expensive – but often have no influence on the image quality. A cheap UV filter serves the same purpose.

But beware! Some photographers buy extra-expensive lenses with specially coated front lenses to reduce reflections. A screwed-on UV filter has exactly then the opposite effect. Paradox, isn’t it? So the rule is: UV filter as lens protection Yes, but not in combination with an expensive reflection reducing lens.

The better alternatives for lens protection are the following, as they do not negatively affect the image:

• The normal lens cap
• A lens shade
• Protection filter without further function

Summary UV Filter

• UV filters are no longer actually needed today.
• A UV filter does not provide better images at all.
• There is even a potential risk that the images will get worse when used
• UV filters can be used as lens protection – but not in combination with expensive coated lenses