[gchappel]

Filters, photoshop, plugins, lenses, cameras. These are all tools. Nothing more.
Like anything else, tools can be used well. They can also be used poorly.
Photoshop can certainly be taken too far- as in the above case.
Lens filters can also be used poorly.
Me, I am a pretty good photographer. Been shooting for over 40 years. Won juried competitions, show in galleries, published in international art books. Rarely use filters. 10stop neutral density filter lets me get long shutter speeds if needed in sunlight. Rarely a circular polarizing filter is needed. Otherwise my filters sit unused.
If you are trying to get a great look for your images shoot in raw format. Then learn to use the tools. Read,study. I believe it is a learnable skill.
It can be a wonderful life long journey.
Gary