Workshop 4 " The Truth About “Protective” Clear Filters.

Many photographers, especially beginners, buy a UV or “protective” filter to screw permanently onto the front of their lens. The idea sounds logical: protect the front element against scratches, dust, or accidental bumps. But in reality, this habit is more harmful than helpful.

Why? Because modern lenses are engineered with incredible optical precision. Each element is coated with advanced treatments that reduce reflections, improve contrast, and deliver flawless sharpness. By adding a flat piece of so-called “neutral” glass in front, you introduce yet another reflective surface. The result: reduced contrast, unwanted flares, ghosting, and a noticeable loss of sharpness. In other words, you’re deliberately degrading the optical quality you paid good money for.

Another key point: the durability of front elements is often underestimated. Lens glass is tough, scratch-resistant, and often treated with protective coatings against moisture and smudges. In 99% of cases, a careful cleaning is enough to remove fingerprints or dust. And if a lens takes a heavy impact, let’s be honest: the filter won’t save it. In fact, it may shatter into pieces and scratch the very element it was supposed to protect.

So, should we avoid filters altogether? Not at all. Creative filters (ND, polarizers, graduated filters) are powerful artistic tools. But the clear “protective” filter? It serves no photographic purpose. It’s a false sense of security that sacrifices image quality on the altar of fear.

In short: your lens deserves better than a useless piece of glass. Give it a lens hood instead—it provides real mechanical protection against knocks and even improves contrast. And keep your images as pure as the light that creates them.