Artifacts from Nikon 1.8 50mm

[cammie]

I was wondering if anyone could explain why I am seeing reflected bits of light in my night time shots with my new 50mm 1.8f Nikon lens. For example, bright signs from shops reflected in a completely different part of the photo but slightly fainter, or the light from street lamps reflected in other parts of the photo, but again fainter. I am hoping that I haven't broken the lens. I am using a UV filter on the lens and haven't tried it without, but it is happening at a range of f-stops. If anyone knows why this is happening or any ways around it, I would be very grateful.

 

[cammie]

In this image, you can see the words reflected in the bottom right of the photo.

 

[arclight]

I cannot actually see the reflections, but my initial thought was that the filter is your problem.

 

[buxtonmick]

+1 on filter

 

[Pookeyhead]

Definitely filter. If you've been talked into using a filter for "protection" by whoever sold it to you... ignore them. Take off the skylight or UV filter, or whatever it is... and put it in the bin... it serves absolutely no purpose. You want lens protection.. use your lens cap when not shooting.

 

[HoppyUK]

Filter. Though you can also get it without. Night shots are notorious for it, with bright lights against dark backgrounds.

Light bounces off the shiny surface of the sensor, then back again off the rear of the filter, appearing in the diagonally opoosite side.

 

[Nod]

Yup, almost certainly filter and that's an easy fix! Keep the filter though, there are occasions where they can be useful as a protector for the front element (flying debris, fingerpoken).

 

[cammie]

Thanks everyone. I will attempt the same shots without a filter and see how I get on - your help is much appreciated.