Camera filters may sound like a relic of a bygone era – But the truth is, as any seasoned photographer will tell you, that camera filters are vital for producing effects that can’t easily be replicated in software. They can modify the intensity and quality of light before it hits the camera sensor (or the film negative, for that matter), and this can lead to all sorts of interesting and useful effects. For example, reduce the amount of light coming into the sensor.
This allows for the use of than would otherwise be possible, meaning you can blur the motion of a moving subject without letting in too much light and blowing out your highlights. , meanwhile, reduce the glare of sunlight and light from reflections, delivering richer colours and making it possible to see through reflective surfaces, everything from shop windows to lakes and rivers. These types of filters tend to be very popular in , and indeed, we have dedicated guides to the , as well as a step-by-step on .
In this guide, we’re including all different types of filters; as such, we’ve suggested a B&W filter, a light-pollution filter for astrophotography, a close-up filter and plenty more. Here are our recommendations of the best filters you can buy. Make sure the filter you buy is the right size for your lens before buying: When you’re testing a filter, it makes sense to put it through the wringer.
We gave the Kase Revolution filters something of a baptism of fire by trying them out on the , a full-frame .
