Quick answer

Keep the Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1 filter on your lens as general-purpose UV control and front-element protection. It absorbs most UV light to reduce blue haze, and its glass takes the dust, moisture, and fingerprints that would otherwise reach your lens.

Where a UV haze filter actually changes the image

The effect is strongest in scenes with a lot of scattered ultraviolet light, such as distant landscapes, high-altitude views, or hazy daylight. In those conditions, UV can wash out color and clarity, and the filter reduces that blue cast by absorbing almost three quarters of UV light. In ordinary indoor or overcast shooting, the visible change is often small, so treat it as a subtle correction rather than a dramatic look.

The protection trade-off you should know

A UV filter is a clear front element you can leave mounted at all times, which is why many photographers use one as everyday lens protection. The trade-off is one more glass surface in the optical path: a dirty or cheap filter can add flare or soften fine detail, so keep it clean and remove it if you see ghosting in strong backlight. The Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1 is available for wide-angle lenses, but check that your lens accepts 55mm filters before buying.

Common questions about the Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1

What does a UV haze filter do?

It absorbs ultraviolet light that can scatter in the atmosphere and add a blue haze to distant scenes. The Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1 absorbs almost three quarters of UV light, which helps restore color and clarity in hazy daylight without changing exposure.

When should I use a UV haze filter?

Use it for landscapes, high-altitude scenes, and any bright daylight where haze washes out color. It is also reasonable to leave it on as protection when you do not need another filter, but remove it for critical backlit shots if you notice flare.

Is it worth using a UV filter for lens protection?

Yes, if you want a sacrificial layer against dust, moisture, fingerprints, and scratches. The filter is easier and cheaper to clean or replace than a lens front element, but keep it clean because a smudged filter degrades every image.

Will the Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1 fit my lens?

It fits lenses with a 55mm filter thread. Check the diameter printed on your lens barrel or lens cap; if it says 55mm, it threads on directly. The filter is also listed as available for wide-angle lenses, but verify your specific lens does not require a slim mount.

Does it change my exposure or autofocus?

No. A UV haze filter is clear glass and does not add neutral density, so your shutter speed, aperture, and autofocus behave as normal. Any exposure change you see comes from the scene, not the filter.

Product facts

  • Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1 Lens Filter: Absorbs almost three quarters of UV light to reduce excessive blue. That is the mechanism behind clearer color in hazy daylight, so you know when the filter is doing real work.

    Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1 Lens Filter

    Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1 Lens Filter

  • Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1 Lens Filter: Protects the lens against dust, moisture, fingerprints, scratches, and damage. You can clean the filter instead of the front element, which is the main reason to keep it mounted.

  • Tiffen 55mm UV Haze 1 Lens Filter: Can be kept on your camera at all times and is available for wide-angle lenses. It works as a leave-on layer, but confirm the 55mm thread and wide-angle compatibility with your lens.