What is a Protection Lens Filter? & How to Use One

Are there downsides to using protection lens filters?

You may be wondering if there are any reasons you might want to avoid using a UV protection lens filter. There can be issues if you put several lens filters on top of your lens at once. How so? Well, when light passes through multiple layers of glass, it can reduce image quality.

However, suppose you’re just using one UV protection lens filter of reasonably good quality (specifically, a filter made of glass as high quality as the glass in your lens itself). In that case, there won’t be any noticeable effects on the quality of your images.

The benefits of using a UV protection lens filter far outweigh these negligible and unlikely downsides. 

Using protection lens filters on digital vs. film cameras

UV protection lens filters have different uses depending on whether you’re shooting on a digital or film camera. However, they’re definitely useful for both. 

Shooting on film

For an old-fashioned film camera, UV lens filters block UV light from hitting the film itself. This will be particularly beneficial if you’re using film that’s highly susceptible to UV light.

If you’re unsure about your film, it’s worth doing some side research into this. 

Using a digital camera

Digital cameras produced after 2007 or so have sensors that effectively protect your images from the effects of ultraviolet light. But there are still reasons to use UV filters. Besides the fact that a UV protection lens filter can protect your expensive and valuable lens from damage, so is basically a form of weatherproofing, it can also improve the quality of your digital photographs.

UV filters can make your photos look sharper and minimize the look of “haze”. And when you’re shooting images with a lot of shadows or it’s a more overcast day, a UV filter can also increase the contrast in your images, which is a desirable effect. 

Wondering how to successfully photograph the moon? We answer that question and more here!

How much does a UV protection lens filter cost?

The cost of a protection lens filter varies. The cheapest ones might be as little as $20, while the most expensive can reach roughly $100. This might sound like a lot. But your protection lens filter may protect a camera lens that costs thousands of dollars. So as you can see, it’s a reasonable price to pay, and one that’s totally worth it in the long run.

We recommend that you spend the extra money now so you don’t have to replace your costly lens due to damage later on. We also suggest that you read up on our guide to cleaning your camera lens here to further protect your investment.

Check out: fisheye lens photography tips: how to nail the shot

Consider Peerspace to find your next photography location

Remember, if you’re in need of an inspiring photoshoot location, Peerspace has got you covered! It’s the most extensive online marketplace for short-term rentals of all kinds of spaces, including but not limited to photo studios and multi-use creative spaces that would be perfect for your next photoshoot. 

With Peerspace, the venue selection is unreal. The website provides access to many thousands of incredible and unique spaces in hundreds of cities, whether you’re based in North America or the United Kingdom.

How to use Peerspace

The easy-to-use search tool makes searching this enormous selection extremely simple, too. First, enter the type of event you’re planning (in this case, you can write “photoshoot”) and the city where you’re planning it. Once you press “search,” you’ll encounter tons of options across a range of budgets, aesthetics, and more. 

You can narrow these options down to only the ones that best suit your particular preferences. Then, browse each venue’s detailed listings that include photos, upfront pricing, descriptions of the spaces, and reviews from those who’ve used the spaces in the past.

The Peerspace difference

Even without actually visiting the locations themselves, it’s super easy to get a sense of what they’re like and choose the ideal space for your next photoshoot.

And if you’re unsure about anything or have any specific requests, you can always reach out directly to the hosts of a given space. All venues are owned and operated by locals who strive to make your experience in their spaces exceptional.

For that reason, many hosts not only offer their spaces but also provide props, gear, and even in some cases, catering or staffing. These details will be included on the listing page and are either included with the rental charge or are extra add-on services.

Next, we’ll share some Peerspace venues that can enhance your work, just so you see what’s out there!