[armondos]

Which filter is better UV or skylight? Or they both do the same functions?

Thanks.

[P-E]

If you are just wanting to protect the front of your lens I always use UV.

[Dabhand16]

Just to confuse the issue, I always go for skylights. The 1b has a very, very slight warming effect and as I take most of my shots in the UK, I think that is worth having.

The UV filters are primarily for high altitude use where the increased UV content of the light gives a blue cast.

Having said that, any differences are very subtle.

[samleo]

I use one or the other simply to protect the front element of my lenses. Wether they justify the cost is arquable but I feel happier using them. I must say that I would have trouble differentiating between them in any exposures!

[silkstone]

If you use Auto White Balance the camera will compensate for the filter tint, so you shouldn't see any difference.

There's always the debate about whether putting another layer of glass in front of the lens is a good idea - it may offer protection but increases the risk of flare. A lens hood will protect better against knocks. If you do use a filter, it's definitely worth getting a multicoated one like Hoya HMC (blue box) or Pro1.

[Dave Canon]

I generally avoid using filters as they can cause flare. There is certain no need for a UV or skylight filter for a DSLR as they have filters included with the sensor. Some prefer to just use the filter to protect the front of the lens which is fine. I do carry one UV filter (all my lenses are the same size) and only use it where I think the risk of the lens hitting something is high (very rare).

Dave