Sometimes you find that a filter is stuck on your lens or that you over tightened a rear lens cap too tightly and they won’t loosen for removal.  So how do you get them off.

Method 1:

Keep a power-free latex medical glove in your camera bag.  Be certain it is powder-free or you might get the powder inside or on a lens when removing a front filter or a rear lens cap.

The latex glove will allow you to get a firm grip on the filter or lens cap.  With little effort they will come off the lens.

This is my preferred method.

Method 2:

Buy a set of filter release handles.  They essentially grip the filter, you squeeze the handles together, and twist.  the filter will come off.

The drawback to this method is that you need a handle that handles the diameter of the filter you are using.  If you are using filters in the 52mm to 62mm range, filters in the 67 to 77mm range, and 82mm to 95mm range you would need to carry three different units.  Not all companies produce these for greater than 95mm, so if you use a 105mm or a 112 mm filter you are out of luck.  Also, finding a 95mm filter release isn’t that common.  Another drawback is the amount of space they take up if you are on the road and limited space in your camera bag.

Some similar jar openers can work, too.

Method 3:

Wide and large rubber bands can help.  Wrap the band around the filter or rear lens cap and twist.  This should work in most cases. 

Drawback?  For very large filters you need a very large rubber band.  If the band is too large, so you would need a smaller diameter band to have decent purchase on the filter or cap.

Method 4:

Soft leather glove.  This will usually give you a good grip, but not all leathers give you sufficient grip.  Also, you are not as likely to carry a leather glove (or gloves) around with you in summer.  In winter this is usually a quick solution, but don’t use a glove that is wet; risk of causing damage to your lens.