Nikon D40 - UV Protection?

[darren1408]

Hi,

I have recently just got a Nikon D40 and am new to Photography!

When taking pictures on a sunny day, will it damage my camera if the sun is shining into my lens?

What UV filter would you recommend for the D40?

I was looking at a Cannon one, it seemed ok, I have also read a lot about Hoya?

Thank you for your help in advance.

Darren.

[tinysmall]

You don't need one. A uv filter is designed to cut down haze. The sun won't damage your sensor.

[griffin]

Only take a photo of the sun if you can look at it directly (for a short amount of time). Taking a photo of the sun when it is strongest i.e. midday WILL damage your sensor.

You should treat your camera like you treat your eyes!!

There are ways of photographing the sun directly when it is strong, google them.

[darren1408]

Ok, Thank you for your help.

[Chris Hawkins]

I always use a filter just to protect the lens. Lens glass is soft. Some like DaveW prefer not to spoil the optical quality of the lens. The purpose of a UV filter is not protect the sensor from the sun. I've taken many pictures into the sun without any ill effects - may be I've been lucky. I think the advice about treating the camera the same as your eyes is good advice.

[tinysmall]

As Chris and Griffin said, treating your camera like you treat your eyes can't be a bad thing although I've never damaged my sensor by shooting the sun and sensors are designed to cope with light. Thats their job after all. Most people are eithe for or against uv filters completely. Im straight down the middle and think you should use one if you need to but not if you don't.