Neutral density filters are used primarily to decrease the shutter speed.

This is the filter I use: Hoya 58mm (G SERIES) Circular Polarizer PL CIR Filter Neutral Density (ND) Filter Of course, there’s more to it than that, read more about them here. Polarisers work by only allowing light from a certain direction, which removes the glare from photos. Think of it as being in the sun with no sunglasses on, it’s hard to see. When shooting in direct sunlight, you’ll often find that your images come out harsh and feel overexposed. This changes the direction that the light is polarised. When you attach the circular filter to the end of your lens, you’ll find that you can still rotate the filter. Linear are traditionally used in film photography, whereas circular is used in digital as they’re designed to not confuse the camera’s autofocus. There are two types of polarising lens filters linear and circular. I would say that most people who use a DSLR, should buy a polarizing filter. The effect created by a polarising filter is one of the only effects that can’t be replicated in post-production so it’s important that you own one. Polarizing filters are really useful, because they reduce glare, and improve the saturation of photos. Keep in mind though, that poor quality UV filters are a common cause of lens flare. The filter I use is the Hoya 58mm DMC PRO1 Digital Multi-Coated UV (Ultra Violet) Filter. For safety, there are no better DSLR lens filters out there. If you have an expensive, professional lens, like telephoto lenses or a high end wide-angle lenses, which you would like protected – use a UV lens filter. Some people seem to think camera filters reduce the image quality. If you buy a good enough quality filter kit, you shouldn’t even see the glass. So, if I accidentally knock it, my lens filter gets damaged, and not my rather expensive lens.

This photography filter will protect the front element of my lens. Why still use one? Well, I never take mine off the camera. Digital sensors are much less sensitive to UV light. In actuality, this is a problem that affects film shooters, and rarely digital shooters. This UV light often appears as a haze, which we really don’t want. It’s because our cameras can see what our eyes can’t, including UV light. But then, why would we want a UV lens filter? We can’t see UV light, it’s invisible to us.

Nikon lens filters effects