I've been doing a lot of reading about filters but it's getting confusing so I thought it best to ask. I have a Nikon D5100 with 18-55 mm/F3.5-5.6 and 55-300 mm/F4.5-5.6 lenses. The 18-55 mm lense has a 52 mm filter diameter, and the 55-300 mm lense has a 58 mm filter diameter.

I am looking to buy either Sigma UV filters or Nikon NC filters to just protect the glass of the lenses. Which would you prefer and why?

I am also looking to get polarizer filters, and again I am looking at Sigma. I have read that Hoyas are nice and moderately priced, so I would consider those as well. I would imagine people would therefore recommend Hoyas, but do any of you have experience with the Sigmas and can comment on their quality?

My third question is regarding the filter size. From my searching, many people suggest buying a larger size (77 mm in most cases) filter and then using step-up rings. But the negative to that is not being able to use a lens hood. What would you suggest?

This is my first DSLR and I'm an amateur who is just getting started. I won't be buying additional lenses for a while. Thanks in advance for your help.

 

If you are not going to get more lenses for a while, get a 52mm to 58mm step up ring. At least you will be able to use the hood with the 55-300.

Or, buy a set of filters for each.

Not sure where you were shopping for the filters, but I have bought several from http://maxsaver.net/ . Shipping takes a while (Taiwan) but the price was right...

 

I'd go with Maxsaver, and for those sized filters I think they should be pretty affordable to just buy the two instead of the step. As for brand, I have a Hoya Pro 1 digital CPL, and I dont have a single regret in it. I also have a Pro 1 digital UV filter that I got as a package deal with the CPL, and its never even been opened.

 

I keep thinking, "hey, I didn't write that" and then I am like "Oh, wait..."...

 

I was looking at Amazon...unfortunately I can't wait too long, but thanks for the link. I'll check it out for future purchases.

I think I'll just get two pairs as both of you have suggested.

Any thoughts about a No Color filter vs. a UV filter as just a protective barrier for the lens?

 

The shipping for Maxsaver is about 10-12 days.

 

 

If you've got hoods for both lenses, and use them, then I wouldn't bother with the UV filters. The hood will protect the front element from a fall/drop without the danger of broken glass scratching the front element. The sensors already have integrated UV filtering so you don't need to add it again with a filter.

 

+1

They do make good UV filters, but most people will buy cheaper ones and they mess with the images.

 

Thanks for the additional advice!