The formalized modulation transfer function (MTF) is used to describe the effects induced by turbid atmosphere on image quality. Spectral characteristics of formalized MTF are analyzed in detail. The zero and nonzero spatial frequency components of formalized MTF, which represent different image information, show strong wavelength dependence. Furthermore, both components vary sharply at some wavelengths, which is significantly correlated with molecule absorption. The formalized MTF spectral characteristics are obviously different from atmospheric transmittance. According to its spectral characteristics, turbid atmosphere effects on imaging can be predicted, and a waveband selection method for optimal imaging is proposed. Comparisons between the proposed method and other methods show good consistency at some wavebands. The simulated imaging results and actual imaging results both verify that the optimal imaging band analysis and selection method is effective. (C) 2019 Optical Society of America