Neutral density filter problem
Sep 10, 2012 18:39:09 #
daf40
Loc: Mesa, AZ
I bought an 8x variable neutral density filter for my Canon SX30 bridge camera. I wanted to experiment with various shutter speeds while photographing moving water at mid-day on a sunny day. This is what happened:
I set the camera on aperture priority, with an 8.0 f-stop and ISO on automatic (I know, I should have set it on a specific number).
The first test picture (without filter) was taken at f8.0, 1/60 second & ISO 250 (auto). (Disregard the poor composition-- this was just a test). Then I put on the ND filter at its darkest position (8x) and left all other settings the same. Even though the camera was on aperture priority, the camera increased the aperture to 4.5 and selected a 400 ISO and a 1-second shutter speed. The second picture shows the results.
What the heck happened? I've never seen this "purple x" on my camera before!
I set the camera on aperture priority, with an 8.0 f-stop and ISO on automatic (I know, I should have set it on a specific number).
The first test picture (without filter) was taken at f8.0, 1/60 second & ISO 250 (auto). (Disregard the poor composition-- this was just a test). Then I put on the ND filter at its darkest position (8x) and left all other settings the same. Even though the camera was on aperture priority, the camera increased the aperture to 4.5 and selected a 400 ISO and a 1-second shutter speed. The second picture shows the results.
What the heck happened? I've never seen this "purple x" on my camera before!
First test picture (without filter)
Picture with ND filter
Sep 11, 2012 05:51:27 #
Try again! I only use manual when using a ND filters, also did you knock off the eye view and to a live view. I suspect that light has entered in to the eye piece and knocking the sensor about I always cover the eye view up with a dark cloth when doing timed shots in bright sun light. Have another go and let us know
daf40 wrote:
I bought an 8x variable neutral density filter for... (show quote)
Sep 11, 2012 06:55:42 #
It looks like you are using a variable polarizing filter and have turned it a little too far, back it off a bit and I am sure all will be well again.
Sep 11, 2012 07:17:49 #
Izza1967 wrote:
It looks like you are using a variable polarizing filter and have turned it a little too far, back it off a bit and I am sure all will be well again.
He's using a (I assume) a graduated soft edge ND filter. not a polarizing filter. Or maybe he is using a Polarizer and doesn't realize it, they can sometimes look alike, aside from the bulk.
Sep 11, 2012 08:09:51 #
I meant a variable nd grad filter which in principle is the same as a variable polarizing filter anyway. I really can't understand how you would get that result using a single plate graduated filter so am looking forward to more answers as I am always willing to learn :)
Sep 11, 2012 08:20:32 #
I agree and don't know why you would get a result such as you did, hence no solution from me..... :(, Although the purple/magenta colors are the complimentary of Greens and perhaps some sort of color shift within the filter itself. Anxiously waiting a solution.
Sep 11, 2012 08:25:25 #
lighthouse
Loc: No Fixed Abode
Only answering from vague memory of a couple of photogs report I have read but this is how it went.
Variable ND filters are 2 polarisers mounted together. A linear over a circular with one of them backwards.
When you turn them too far, the horrible X is what can happen.
Please feel free to correct me with the specifics but this is a vague description of what happens.
What brand is it?
Variable ND filters are 2 polarisers mounted together. A linear over a circular with one of them backwards.
When you turn them too far, the horrible X is what can happen.
Please feel free to correct me with the specifics but this is a vague description of what happens.
What brand is it?
Sep 11, 2012 08:42:26 #
Scott Kelby did a vidio on something similar that I think may help. I purchased the same B&W 10 stop ND and followed his advice and everything worked as expected.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_dKH2mLt0c
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_dKH2mLt0c
Sep 11, 2012 08:53:29 #
By the way, I now looking for a variable circular ND filter. Can anyone recommend a good quality VND ?
I just purchased some Cokin Grad ND filters and filter holders and for the money, the seem to be well made and very well designed. I look forward to using them in my landscapes.
I just purchased some Cokin Grad ND filters and filter holders and for the money, the seem to be well made and very well designed. I look forward to using them in my landscapes.
Sep 11, 2012 08:57:18 #
lighthouse
Loc: No Fixed Abode
Why do so many people throughout these forums answer different questions than the one that is asked?
You know - if you don't have an answer to the question that is asked, you don't actually have to type a reply!
You know - if you don't have an answer to the question that is asked, you don't actually have to type a reply!
Sep 11, 2012 09:23:33 #
I don't know about everyone else but every answer I read on this forum teaches me something even if it doesn't answer the original question.
Sep 11, 2012 09:31:41 #
Sep 11, 2012 10:55:22 #
Sep 11, 2012 12:06:32 #
Edmund Dworakowski wrote:
By the way, I now looking for a variable circular ND filter. Can anyone recommend a good quality VND ?
I just purchased some Cokin Grad ND filters and filter holders and for the money, the seem to be well made and very well designed. I look forward to using them in my landscapes.
I just purchased some Cokin Grad ND filters and filter holders and for the money, the seem to be well made and very well designed. I look forward to using them in my landscapes.
I just purchased a vND filter from Photowhoa.com. for $49.00, in any size. The deal ends today, so hurry. I'll have to experiment on how it works. I'm courous on how you know what the density is as you dial the filter. I saw marks on the filter, but could not make out numbers.
Sep 11, 2012 12:47:31 #
The answer about light coming through the view finder on long exposure makes the most sense for why you got the x in the image.
I only use live view all the time and have not had this happen in my images. My view finder is always closed.
When using any ND filter I always use a circular polarizing filter too. I wonder if using a CPL also would have helped your situation or including an UV filter also. Stack UV, CPL, then the ND on the end.
I only use live view all the time and have not had this happen in my images. My view finder is always closed.
When using any ND filter I always use a circular polarizing filter too. I wonder if using a CPL also would have helped your situation or including an UV filter also. Stack UV, CPL, then the ND on the end.
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