Light refracting from UV lens?

Question

I recently purchased a Nikon D40 and its kit lens. When I place a UV filter onto the lens (which means 100% of the time), there seems to be some sort of refracting or reflection from strong light sources such as ceiling lights. For example, there's a ceiling light at the top of the frame, and there's faint reflection of that light source lower down in the frame. Very annoying as it has wrecked a few exposures already. What can I do to prevent this? I'm using a Hoya 52mm UV filter.

Answer 1

You are experiencing a common problem called "lens flare" that occurs on most lenses regardless of the type of filter you have in front of the lens.

Lens flare occurs anytime you have a light source that is perpendicular to the front of the lens. The light rays bounce off the front of the lens (refract) and manifest themselves as small consecutive circles of light on your picture.

The best way to combat this is to get a lens hood or lens petal. Typically a lens petal will be more expensive and rather than a flat front it has a curved hard plastic shell. A good petal will also have a small removable door that will allow you to reach in and manually adjust a circular polarizing filter.

Petals typically do a better job of breaking up lens flare because of their uneven surface. They are also sturdier and a bit more practical to use than just a rubber lens hood. Most designs will screw on (with a bayonet mount) and can be taken on and off relatively easily. They are, however, specific to the lens mount and manufacturer so rather than have 2 or 3 generic rubber lens hoods that you can switch between your lenses, you will probably need a petal for each lens.

Rubber lens hoods do a fair job at breaking up flare, they are cheaper and easy to find. They definitely have their place it all depends on your budget.

Answer 2

Make sure the filter is clean and scratch- & dust-free.
Use a lens hood.
If you are still having difficulties, try a circular polarizing filter. It can go on in front of the UV filter.

Answer 3

buy a rubber lens hood from your camera store. Be sure to ask them for the right size.- dont put the light source in the photograph just the subject