Do camera lens filters take sharper/better images?

I'm toying around with the idea. Either get a dslr or maybe attach a filter on my camera lens and see if the images come out better.

 

Erm, no, not sharper.

Filters are good to use if you know what you're doing. I only ever use nd gradual filters for landscapes.

 

Filters don't magically make an image better, unless you're using it for a specific purpose. like eclap said.

ND for landscapes etc, CPL's for getting rid of reflections etc.

 

Can someone just tell me what ND does for landscapes?

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8nn5Ombed4

 

As a rule of thumb, the more glass you have the worse the photo quality will be.
Having said that, some filters are very good quality and can enhance a photo like ND (neutral density) or polarising filters.

 

Filters are good for changing the colour of your pictures. They have nothing to do with quality.

 

I have to disagree a bit. Filters do not just change colour, and they can definitely improve your image. Specifically...

ND (neutral density) filters can help when you are looking for a longer exposure or just dropping down a stop or 2 when you are dealing with over exposure

Split ND filters work well for landscapes or even flash photography. Picture sun glasses, but gradient clear to dark

Polarising filters rock when you want to reduce reflections, increase clarity

Regarding colour filters, they can be applied in so many ways. I particularly loved a red filter for bringing out very hi contrast when shooting B&W on my film cameras. However, in the digital age color filters really are not required or needed any longer. They can be applied post process as well.

I have yet to see where the extra glass of a filter has negatively affected an exposure... unless it was supposed to or was used incorrectly.

 

Filters are a tool and as with all tools, if used correctly they will help and assist. They all serve a unique purpose. In terms of sharpness I rarely see any camera filters that will help any sharpness, however clarity is something else, and dealing with exposure shots as well.

I think a lot can be done in post "production" and in general filters are only for special occasions and needs.