LCD Screen Protector and Lens Protectors

[Andy49]

I just purchased a Canon T1i this afternoon. On my Palm Treo, I use a screen protector for he LCD screen. Is something like that required or necessary for the LCD screen on the camera? Also, do I need to buy a lens protector for the lens that came with the camera? One more question, I always owned point and shoot cameras or disposible cameras. What is the learning curve on this type of camera. Thanks in advance.

[TCav]

Originally Posted by Andy49

I just purchased a Canon T1i this afternoon. On my Palm Treo, I use a screen protector for he LCD screen. Is something like that required or necessary for the LCD screen on the camera?

You need a screen protector for your Treo because you write on it. dSLR LCDs aren't touch sensitive (yet) so the same kinds of dangers don't apply, but it's not a bad idea to get something to absorb an impact. Something like a Matin Heavy Duty LCD Screen Protector for the Canon XSi/T1i DSLR wouldn't be a bad idea.

Originally Posted by Andy49

Also, do I need to buy a lens protector for the lens that came with the camera?

I presume you're talking about a Protection Filter. There are those that think a UV/Protection filter is an inexpensive way to protect the front element of the lens from damage, and there are those that think filters (especially inexpensive filters) reduce the sharpness of a lens, resulting in lower image quality and other problems (i.e.: vignetting, flare, etc.) Pick your poison.

[Andy49]

Thanks.

[Blueberry]

Originally Posted by TCav

I presume you're talking about a Protection Filter. There are those that think a UV/Protection filter is an inexpensive way to protect the front element of the lens from damage, and there are those that think filters (especially inexpensive filters) reduce the sharpness of a lens, resulting in lower image quality and other problems (i.e.: vignetting, flare, etc.) Pick your poison.

I talked to Nikon tech support and they advised against using one. I always had one I my old SLr camera and found no sharpness issues that I could detect on a 4 x 6 photo. I just purchased protection filters for both of my Nikon len's which were about $30 each. The store mentioned you could buy the $60 a piece lens from Nikon which they say is a little better, but the salesperson in the store said for viewing on your computer or even blowing up a photo to a 8 x 10, he doubts I would see a difference in image quality. There is suppose to be some type of chemical on the lens and when you wipe it all the time, it decreases the protective what ever is on the lens.

[TCav]

A filter will reduce image quality if the glass isn't perfectly clear, if it isn't perfectly flat on both sides, if both sides aren't exactly parrallel, and if the coatings aren't exactly consistant from one place on the filter to another.

The degree to which the filter manufacturer meets those requirements, and can attest to having met those requirements, is what dictates the cost of a filter.

And even then, it could create flare where you wouldn't have had it before.

And, no, the lens coatings are durable enough to withstand the effects of multiple cleanings.