Lens filters vs in camera filters

So I'm really enjoying shooting my xt1 and I like the B&W red filter effect in camera. My question is would I get a better effect/contrast

with a red filter screwed on the lens?

<p>Give it a try and see for yourself! However, know that all digital cameras sensors record raw data, which is then "corrected" by processing algorithms - usually to produce JPEG renditions. What you are seeing from your camera is a processed image - in this case a b&W one in which the raw image is manipulated to approximate the effect of a red filter on B&W film. You could do the same thing in post processing software by decreasing the blues and then converting to B&W. Since the sensor records all colors in its gamut, adding a red filter to the camera would have no measurable effect on the processed b&W image, but would change the exposure by blocking part of the spectrum.</p>

<p>A red filter for B&W has a different absorption spectrum than the Bayer filter on the sensor, and may have a different effect. However manipulation of the color in post processing to B&W will closely emulate the effect. Blue sky would render darker than normal, while foliage and rocks tend to be lighter, especially in dry climates and high altitudes. If you use a red filter on the lens, process the image as though it were daylight before conversion, rather than using automatic white balance. IMO, it's not worth the bother.</p>

<p>A few digital cameras are offered without a Bayer filter for B&W only imaging. These include several Leica digital M cameras and a medium format back or two. A lens filter is the only way to achieve these effects, since there are no colors in the image to process. Why would you spend thousands of dollars for a B&W only digital camera? Ultra-high resolution, wide dynamic range (13+ stops), exceptionally high ISO limits, and a persistent love for B&W photography.</p>

You will probably get a better result with a red

filter but don't forget you'll lose 2-3 stops of

light so you may need to either use a tripod or

increase your ISO. In-camera red filters can

often result in more image noise.

<p>I'll upload (downsized) unedited SOOC JPGs. starting with "BW red filter" and nude lens.</p>

<p>followed by a 3 stops B+W red filter on the lens and camera set to plain BW - sorry about unsharp background I had to adapt someting and maybe the adapter was too long for wide open landscapes.</p><div></div>

<p>oops</p><div></div>

<p>A simple color to B&W conversion looks pretty muddy. That's partly because a digital sensor has two green pixels for every red or blue pixel, whereas B&W film is fairly uniform in its response. The same thing happens if you print color negatives on B&W paper.</p>

<p>The shot with the B+W red filter looks badly underexposed. You will nee to expose correctly to make a fair comparison. </p>

<p>Exposure adjusted in PS</p><div></div>

<p>You may also have to set white balance to manual in case your camera is trying to "correct" the red filtration.</p>

<p>Thanks Jamie. Sorry, BW was my last intention with the Fujis so far, but it probably makes sense to broaden that kit with them. - I had shutter on Auto relying on the JPGs to turn out great as usual.</p>