UV filter

Pros

• My advice is to always get a UV filter and put it on each new lens right out of the box. I’d rather replace a scratched $80 filter instead of a $300 front element
• When I started photography, I put UV filters on all my lenses because at that point I wasn't yet secure enough in my belief that I would be able to treat my lenses safely. It was the difference between going out and shooting with slightl...
• However in scenarios such as yours or beaches or anything where small particles can scratch the lens I'd say they're worth it. But definitely don't cheap out.
• It brings me peace of mind. I've been a photographer semi and now pro for 15 years now, i've only let my camera (I've had a few) fall twice and I count by the hands the knocks and hits. But I've seen countless uv getting scratched by god...

Cons

• I think UV filters are a waste of time, but if it brings you peace of mind in the field, that's invaluable.
• I shot last year and protected my gear but had to throw out the UV filter when I was done because that shit was now one with the filter.
• I’m in the camp that it can degrade an image if it’s cheep or the circumstance is right, however I don’t buy the super cheep ones and I always use a hood so I’ve never had the reflection type problems.
• UV filters only make your pictures worse. They trap condensation and can cause glare.
• In modern lenses, it has 0 optical usage. In fact I could encourage reflections when it attracts dirt and oils. Also.it could also not be fully optically clear.