Filter Question

[bogino]

What sort of lens protector/filter would you recommend on a Canon 300mm IS model?  There seem to be hundreds of options ranging from $15 to well over $100 and I don't know where to begin.

[Bob Atkins]

I assume you're talking about the 300/4L IS lens since the 300/2.8L IS doesn't take a front filter.

You don't really need a protective filter, but if it makes you feel more confortable to use one you'd need a 77mm multicoated UV filter.

I'd recommend one of the HOYA line, probably something like the Hoya PRO 1 Digital UV filter.

What you don't want is a cheap filter that will degrade image resolution or an uncoated or monocoated filter which will lower image contrast. Good 77mm multicoated filters will cost somewhere between $50 and $100 or so. I'd beware of putting anything cheaper than that on a good lens like the Canon 300mm.

Hoya filters are generally good, but avoid the low cost "green box" Hoya filters (so called because they come in a green box!) since they are only monocoated and can increase flare and decrease contrast at times.