Hey, as someone who's been shooting outdoors for years, I think focusing on protection first makes sense. A basic clear filter can act as a barrier against scratches and dirt, especially if you're hiking or in windy spots. But honestly, I've found that using a hood helps a ton with keeping light from washing out your shots. For glare, nothing beats a polarizer when you're dealing with shiny surfaces like leaves after rain or calm water. Rotate it slowly while looking through the lens, and you'll see the reflections fade away, making colors more vibrant. remember it darkens things a bit, so adjust your settings accordingly. Works great on sunny days. If the sky starts looking patchy, ease off or take it off entirely.
