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Best lens filters for Sigma Art series lenses?

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So I finally pulled the trigger on the Sigma 35mm Art and im seriously so hyped to use it for this wedding im shooting in Seattle next weekend but honestly im about to lose my mind with the filters I have. I spent all this money on a pro lens and my cheapo UV filter is literally ruining every single shot with these disgusting green flares whenever there is a light source nearby... its so frustrating because the lens itself is a beast but as soon as I put that glass on the front everything gets soft and weirdly hazy. I tried going without a filter for a bit but I am way too paranoid about scratching the front element especially with kids running around at this venue. I need something that actually matches the quality of the Art series without breaking the bank too much but im willing to spend like 100 or 150 dollars if it means I dont have to deal with this garbage quality anymore. What are you guys using on your Sigma glass? I was looking at Hoya or maybe Breakthrough Photography but there are so many options and I dont want to make the same mistake twice. Anyone have a specific rec for a 67mm or 82mm thread that doesnt kill the sharpness or color?

3 Answers
12

Just saw this, honestly its such a bummer when a fifty dollar piece of glass ruins a nine hundred dollar lens. I had the same issue with some generic filters that were basically just window glass... ruined my contrast and gave me those nasty ghosts. If you want something that actually holds up to the Sigma Art resolution, you really gotta look at the coating. Unfortunately, most budget options skip the multi-coating process which is why youre getting flared out. TL;DR: Stop using cheap glass. Grab a B+W 67mm Master 007 Clear MRC nano or the Hoya 67mm HD3 UV Filter. The Hoya HD3 is actually toughened glass, so its way harder to break if a kid bumps into it. Both have brass rings so they wont seize up on your Sigma threads. Quick tip: If you are shooting directly into the sun at that wedding, just take the filter off for that specific shot. Even the best glass can flare a tiny bit in harsh backlight.

10

Adding my two cents after a decade of shooting these Art lenses. I have unfortunately been disappointed by how many filters fail under pressure when you are dealing with direct light. It is frustrating to drop a grand on glass only for a filter to soften the image. I had a nightmare session once where my filters were just not as good as expected, ruined every backlit shot with that exact hazy mess you described. Here is what actually works for me without the green ghosting:

  • Breakthrough Photography X4 UV 67mm – This is my top pick. It uses Schott B270 glass and is basically invisible to the sensor. It is pricey but worth it for the peace of mind.
  • Hoya HD3 UV Filter 67mm – These are significantly better than the standard Hoya series. The coating is way more durable and stays clean longer when kids get fingerprints on your gear. Honestly, dont settle for the mid-range stuff or you will just end up frustrated again...




1

I have been really satisfied using multi-coated glass on my Sigma lenses for years. You definitely need to watch out for cheap, single-coated filters because they cause that exact green ghosting and loss of contrast. Also, avoid aluminum frames. Theyll bind to the lens threads and get stuck. Sticking with high-quality brass frames and professional grade coatings is basically the only way to protect that Art glass properly.




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