Hey there! So yeah, jumping into filters can be kinda overwhelming, but for your Canon setup, focusing on the core three makes total sense for landscapes and brighter scenes. A CPL is absolutely indispensable, seriously. Don't skimp here. A good one from a brand like Marumi Exus Circular P.L.D Filter or NiSi PRO Nano HUC CPL really cuts reflections and pops colors without much fuss. It makes a huge difference in ur outdoor shots, you just gotta see it. For NDs, fixed are better for ultimate image quality with long exposures, but can get pricey. For value and versatility, especially when starting out or for street, a quality variable ND like Tiffen Variable ND Filter (don't go too cheap!) is a solid way to go. It lets you dial in exposure without swapping, super practical. Lastly, for UV filters, honestly, it's mostly about protection for your L-series glass. A high-quality, multi-coated one like a Kenko Realpro Protector Filter won't impact your image quality and is way cheaper than replacing a scratched front element. I mean, ur lenses are expensive, right? Think of it as cheap insurance.

Totally agree with the CPL call, it's honestly indispensable for so many situations. But yeah, on the UV filter front, *especially* with expensive L-series glass, I've always gone with a high-quality one like a Hoya HD3 UV Filter purely for protection. A cheap UV can seriously mess with image quality, but a good one is optically transparent and offers crucial peace of mind against scratches or dust, you know?

Honestly, if you are shooting with L-series glass on a 5D Mark IV, you dont want to put cheap glass in front of it. It kind of defeats the purpose of those high-end optics, right? For me, the absolute must-have is a solid CPL. I have had great results with the B+W 77mm Master Circular Polarizer MRC Nano. Its built like a tank and the brass ring means it wont get stuck on your lens threads as easily as cheap aluminum ones, which is a lifesaver when you are out in the field. For long exposures, I really suggest skipping the variable NDs if you want maximum sharpness for landscapes. I eventually shifted to a square filter system because its more versatile across different lens sizes using adapter rings. The Haida M10 Filter Holder System is a really reliable, cost-effective way to get into this. Pair it with a Haida Red Diamond ND3.0 10-Stop Filter for those silky water shots. Regarding UV filters, I mostly use them as cheap insurance. If you want something that wont degrade your image but can take a hit, the Sigma WR Ceramic Protector 77mm is incredibly tough. Its basically clear armor for your glass, tbh.

In my experience, you really only need a couple indispensable filters. A good Breakthrough Photography X4 CPL Filter is absolutely essential for landscapes and cutting glare, like, seriously. For long exposures, I'd lean towards fixed NDs over variable for image quality, but a variable ND is super convenient for street stuff on the fly. UV filters are mostly just for lens protection, tbh, not much optical benefit unless ur in dusty conditions...

This thread is gold. Bookmarking for future reference 🔖

Noted!

👆 this

Facts.