What are UV filters primarily used for in photography?

UV filters are primarily used to protect the lens from dust, scratches, and potential impacts. While UV filters can also have an effect on image quality by blocking ultraviolet light, which is less of an issue with digital sensors compared to film, their main practical application is to serve as a shield for the front element of the lens. This way, photographers can keep their lenses in better condition and reduce the risk of damage without worrying too much about the filter affecting image quality.

Although enhancing color saturation, reducing reflections and glare, and increasing exposure time are aspects relevant to photography, they do not relate to the primary function of UV filters. Color saturation is often influenced by other filters or post-processing, reflections and glare are typically managed through different polarizing filters, and exposure times are controlled through camera settings rather than by using a UV filter. Therefore, the protective function of the UV filter remains its most significant and recognized role in photography.