Which filters as basic 'must have' kit?

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ajprice

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Adrian Price
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What would you have as a basic filter or set for all times with the camera. At the moment I've got none, I've had the camera since christmas and just wondering where to start... UV, clear, polarising? any recommended brands to go for? :thinking:

Its a 46mm filter thread size for a Lumix FZ28.
 
Depends what you're shooting. If you're in to landscapes, then a circular polariser would probably be top of my list. If you enjoy shooting running water, like rivers and waterfalls, then neutral density filters are very handy. Many would also recommend neutral density graduated filters for balancing out sky and foreground, but TBH I find it easier to take 2 exposures and merge them in photoshop. For that reason, I wouldn't class them as essential. :)
Another option is for a UV or skylight filter, primarily to protect your lens from scratches. Again, that's very much down to personal preference.
 
Circular polariser, maybe a neutral density (not grad) to allow longer shutter speeds.

Warm up/Cool downs, ND Grads, Soft focus - all nice to haves but not essential
 
I have permanently in my bag a p filter holder with adapters for most of my lenses, to go in the holder I have a circular polarizer and a pair of nd grads which I plan on adding a couple of nd's to. Personally I shoot alot of landscapes and I would never be without an nd grad.
 
UV on always, to protect the lens (but make sure its a good quality one....why pay loads for a lens and put cheap glass on the front)?

In the bag:Circular polariser: two actually as not all my lenses are the same size :( and ND grads of two kinds (one weak, one stronger) and their holder.......helps with holding back bright bits of sky.
 
A polariser is the only must have for me and even then it only comes out now and again.

If you're a landscaper having a set of ND grads would help when you can't merge 2 exposures.

Other than that there's nothing else that can't be imitated in in Photoshop or Lightroom.
 
Circular polariser it is then, methinks. Any particular brand to look out for or is it a case of a filter is a filter is a filter?
 
You should look for a high quality polariser. Something like Hoya would be a good option.
 
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