Finally got a 5D Mark III for my Smokies trip next month. I read UV filters are essential for protection but some forums say they just ruin image quality.
Im on a $200 budget and dont want to waste money. Besides a polarizer, what are the actually essential filters for this setup?
In my experience, get a Tiffen 77mm Variable ND Filter for water. For safety, a Hoya 77mm UV Filter is reliable. Just dont skip the hood, saved my glass more than filters tho.
Honestly, for the Smokies, you're gonna want a solid polarizer more than anything else to make those greens pop and cut the glare on wet rocks. I've been really satisfied with the Marumi 77mm DHG Super Circular PL lately. It works well and doesn't have that weird color cast you get on cheaper glass. Save your cash on the UV and just use the lens hood for protection, it's usually enough.
I spent ages testing light transmission for my 5D. Be careful with flare; I would suggest: