A to Z Challenge - U

UV Filters are used to prevent ultraviolet light (UV) from getting into and affecting your photographs. UV filters reduce haziness and fogginess in your photos, as well as give you generally a sharper image.

Though newer digital cameras tend to be less sensitive to UV wavelengths, due to their low cost and lack of effect on the exposure of the shot photographers still tend to use them to them.

However, some UV filters have a coating that may introduce lens flare and have an adverse impact on contrast and sharpness, especially when a strong light source is present.

Most importantly, UV Filters provide an extra bit of protection for your camera lenses. Its much nicer to replace a $20 filter than a $500 lens!