Can you explain this?

[WJT]

Asking about the use of filters can start a huge and predictable argument (although I think not on this forum). I'm going to try to avoid igniting that while giving you a few suggestions:

1. Don't use any filters of any kind unless they are high-quality, multi-coated filters. I don't know if the Kenko is. I only have Hoya and Marumi at this point. (I only recently learned about the extra coating on the Pro--too late for this round of filters).

2. Unless you absolutely need it, don't use filters when you have a light source in front of you. That is when you get reflections, flare, ghosting, etc.

I'm one of those people who actually does use UV filters for protection if I am in environments where I have reason to worry (I've been doing this for over 40 years), and I have done a few tests that suggest that with good filters and good lighting behind you, the effect is minor. However, I always take them off in circumstances where lighting is in front of the camera.

Thanks Dan, I actually went into the shop and asked for a Hoya and was told this was better, however the shop has now gone broke so that mat tell me something. I now ask this membership before buying anything as there is so much depth in experience within the members. Your advice mirrors other experienced photographers on this subject and is therefore hard to argue with.

[WJT]

Marumi are now using the sensor reflection problem as a selling point for their range of filters for the digital camera market - here, with diagrams: http://www.marumi-international.com/dhg/

Thanks Christopher, good to have some comparisons. I think I will stop using the filter unless it is a dirty situation.

[Colin Southern]

I've seen this type of thing quite often with night shots. A UV filter makes it worse, but one can still get it even without a filter attached.

My understanding is that it's caused by an extreme contrast scene (ie the sun compared to the rest of the scene) reflecting off the sensor back to the front element and then back to the sensor.

[Glenn NK]

Some interesting comments for sure.

Not sure we can be certain where the image was reflected from, but the result is very effective - a keeper.

I am a user of UV filters for protection, but will readily admit there are situations where the filter should be removed.

Whenever I shoot into the sun, or when the sun can impinge on the front of the lens, I have learned to take the filter off - (and to eat some crow).

As Colin states, a filter may not be the only cause.

Glenn

[Manfred M]

Marumi are now using the sensor reflection problem as a selling point for their range of filters for the digital camera market - here, with diagrams: http://www.marumi-international.com/dhg/

I looked at the website and they make the statement there, but without anything to back it up. It rather sounds like marketing "fluff" to me. Their description is pretty generic and is just a very high level description of how thin film optical coatings work.

I generally shoot with fairly inexpensive clear or UV filters on my lenses to protect them from accidental damage, but will take the filter off when shooting in glare situations. That is really the cheapest solution. That does two things for me; it removes the filter that could be causing glare and at the same time I expose a very clear front lens element to the shooting situation. Dirty filters do add to the flare and ghosting problems.

[WJT]

Whatever it was that happened I am still astounded at the result and have learnt a lot from this discussion. Its good to have access to so many knowledgeable shooters. Thanks to all for their input. Now to go and take the shot myself and hope my wife can lift the little fella. He is getting heavy. :-)