AboutDave Nyce Expertise I have used SLR cameras for 30 years and have taught classes on photography at work for my co-workers. I had a darkroom for 20 years, but now am using mostly digital cameras. I can answer questions on equipment and techniques for photography, but am not an expert on specific model numbers of cameras or accessories.
Expert: Dave Nyce Date: 4/18/2004 Subject: HOW DO I USE FILTERS?
Question I have a Nikon N80 35 mm and I have the following filters to go with this camera:
UV, multi coated UV, F-DL, and a circ. polarizer.
What I would like to have is some kind of chart I could carry in my bag to tell me when it is appropriate to use these filters and someone or something to advise me on what "other kinds of filters I could use" (mostly outdoor photography).
For instance, what filter is best for shooting outdoors on an overcast day if you are photography, say wildflowers, were you need to pick up the color of the flowers? And, what if it's noon and that's the only chance you have to get the photo but, you need to do something about those washed photos that result?
If you could explain those filters above, I could put them in a chart. Or, even if you could direct me somewhere to find answers, that would be great.
Thanks for your time and consideration of my request. D. S. Ford d.ford@sbcglobal.net
Answer When I teach a class on photography, we use the book "essential camera skills", by Joel Lacey. It has a chapter on filters. Years ago, I used a handy pocket book on filters and lens settings that was made by Kodak, but I can't seem to locate mine right now. A good book by Kodak (only 45 pages) specifically on filters is "filters for black and white and color pictures".
A uv filter (also called a skylight filter) is often used all the time to protect the lens and to make clouds appear more clearly. Multi-coated uv just means a higher quality uv filter that is made with a process that reflects less light from the front of the lens.
F-DL is a type F for daylight. It is deep red and makes the sky appear dark and clouds show very crisply.
A polarizer is used to reduce glare, such as that from the surface of glass or water.
